According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices ISMP the abbreviation HCTZ for hydrochlorothiazide may be misinterpreted as:

Rationale

Hydrocortisone

According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), the abbreviation **HCTZ** (for hydrochlorothiazide) can be misinterpreted as **hydrocortisone**. This confusion arises because both drug names share the prefix “hydro-” and the abbreviation may be misread or miswritten, leading to potential medication errors.

A (Hydrocodone) YOUR ANSWER

This is incorrect. Although hydrocodone shares the “hydro-” prefix, it is not the commonly cited misinterpretation of HCTZ by ISMP.

B (Hydrocortisone) CORRECT

This is correct. ISMP identifies hydrocortisone as a medication that can be confused with hydrochlorothiazide when the abbreviation HCTZ is used, posing a risk for medication errors.

C (Hydromorphone) YOUR ANSWER

This is incorrect. While hydromorphone is a high-alert medication often involved in medication errors, it is not specifically associated with misinterpretation of the abbreviation HCTZ.

D (Hydroxyzine) YOUR ANSWER

This is incorrect. Although hydroxyzine has a similar prefix, it is not the drug most commonly confused with HCTZ according to ISMP.

Conclusion

Abbreviations can increase the risk of medication errors when they are misinterpreted. ISMP highlights that HCTZ may be confused with hydrocortisone, reinforcing the importance of minimizing abbreviation use and ensuring clear communication in prescribing and dispensing.

According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices ISMP the abbreviation HCTZ for hydrochlorothiazide may be misinterpreted as:

Hydrocortisone

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