What is the meaning of "a.c." in medication administration?

In medication administration, "a.c." stands for "ante cibum," which is a Latin phrase meaning "before meals." This abbreviation is commonly used in medical settings to indicate that a medication should be taken at a specified time prior to eating. Administering medication before meals can affect how well the medication is absorbed or how it interacts with food, which is why it's essential for medication aides and healthcare providers to follow these instructions carefully. Understanding these abbreviations is crucial for effective and safe medication administration.