If a medication is to be taken 'q6h', how frequently would it be administered?

The term 'q6h' stands for 'every 6 hours.' In medical terminology, 'q' is an abbreviation derived from the Latin word 'quaque,' meaning 'every.' Therefore, when a medication is prescribed with this notation, it indicates that the medication should be taken or administered every six hours. This helps ensure that the patient receives the medication at consistent intervals, maintaining an effective level of the drug in their system throughout the day.

The frequency of 'q6h' dosage results in a total of four doses per 24-hour period, as administering it every 6 hours allows for four distinct time slots within a day (e.g., at 12 AM, 6 AM, 12 PM, and 6 PM). This understanding clarifies the appropriateness of the answer provided, demonstrating how this notation is pivotal for proper medication timing.