In 2004, the Joint Commission created a "do not use" list of abbreviations for:

The Joint Commission developed a "do not use" list of abbreviations in 2004 specifically to enhance the safety and clarity of handwritten medical orders. This initiative aimed to reduce the risk of misinterpretation and errors that could occur due to ambiguous or unclear abbreviations commonly used in medical documentation. Handwritten orders are particularly prone to misreading, whether due to poor handwriting or the use of abbreviations that may have multiple meanings.

By establishing this list, the Joint Commission sought to standardize communication among healthcare providers and ensure that all orders are understood correctly, thereby improving patient safety. This initiative highlights the importance of clear communication in clinical settings, which is essential for preventing medication errors and ensuring proper patient care.

Computers and electronic records have different sets of potential complications regarding abbreviations, but the "do not use" list specifically targets the issues associated with handwritten medical orders.