What does "au" refer to in medical abbreviations?

In medical abbreviations, "au" stands for "auris utra," which translates to "both ears" in Latin. This term is commonly used in prescriptions and medical documentation to indicate that a treatment or medication should be applied to both ears of the patient. Understanding this abbreviation is crucial for pharmacy technicians and healthcare providers, as it ensures accuracy in patient care and prevents confusion when administering medications.

The other options pertain to different parts of the body or conditions; "both eyes" is typically represented as "ou" (oculus uterque), while "only one ear" and "only one eye" would be indicated by "a" (auris) and "o" (oculus), respectively. Knowing these distinctions helps in avoiding potential medication errors and ensuring effective communication in a healthcare setting.