In medical math, what does the abbreviation "gtt" stand for?

The abbreviation "gtt," which stands for "drop," is commonly used in medical math to quantify liquid medication dosages. This abbreviation is derived from the Latin word "gutta," meaning drop. In clinical settings, understanding the concept of a drop is crucial for accurate dosing, as it is often used in relation to intravenous (IV) fluids or other liquid medications where precise administration is important.

For instance, when calculating how many drops of a medication to administer, the drop factor (gtt/mL) from the IV setup is taken into account. This measure directly impacts the efficacy and safety of treatment, emphasizing the importance of knowing that "gtt" refers specifically to "drop". Understanding this terminology is essential for healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the correct dose in a safe and effective manner.