What does 'od' indicate in medical prescriptions?

In medical prescriptions, 'od' stands for "oculus dexter," which is the Latin term for the right eye. This abbreviation is commonly used to specify which eye should receive medication, particularly in ophthalmic prescriptions. Eye care providers often use these abbreviations to avoid confusion when prescribing treatments for eye conditions, ensuring that the correct eye is treated.

In contrast, other common abbreviations include 'os' for the left eye ('oculus sinister') and 'ou' for both eyes ('oculi uterque'). Therefore, the choice of 'right eye' accurately reflects the meaning of 'od' within the context of medical prescriptions. Understanding these abbreviations is crucial for ensuring effective patient care and accurate medication administration.