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2. Industry terminology

It is important that you use correct industry terminology in verbal, written and digital communications in your work role.

Note that abbreviations used in documentation may differ between healthcare organisations. It is important to only use approved abbreviations in your documentation whilst you are a student on placement and when you are working as an AHA. Orientation to an approved abbreviation list should be completed during workplace induction.

This table explains some of the most common acronyms and abbreviations you will encounter.

Documentation terminology
Acronym/abbreviation  DefinitionAcronym/abbreviation Definition
1/7 One dayMaxMaximal
1/12 One monthMinMinimal
1/52 One weekMobMobilise
4PS Four point stickModModerate
4WF Four wheeled frameN + VNausea and vomiting
4WWFour wheeled walker
OObjective
A ActionOTFOver toilet frame
ADLActivity of daily living PPlan
AMMorningpADLPersonal activity of daily living 
AxAssessmentPHxPast history
Ax1One person assistPMAfternoon
Ax2
Two person assistPt/ptPatient
c/oComplains ofPUSPick up stick
cADLCommunity activity of daily living PxPain
CHxCurrent historyROMRange of motion
dADLDomestic activity of daily livingRxTreatment
ExExerciseSSubjective
GF  (also known as FASF)

Gutter frame (or forearm support frame)S/vSupervision 
HEPHome exercise planSHxSocial history
HOPCHistory of presenting complaintSPS Single point stick
IIndependentSS Shower stool 
ManeIn the morningw/cWheelchair