BUE

Medical abbreviation · Patient Assessment

BUE
Stands forBilateral upper extremities
CategoriesMedical

BUE stands for Bilateral upper extremities, a patient assessment abbreviation.

Both arms, used in assessment and therapy notes for findings such as strength, range of motion, tremor or IV restrictions that apply to both sides.

Example: Strength 5/5 BUE, 4/5 BLE; sensation intact throughout.

Usage notes

The upper extremity includes the shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand. Restrictions such as "no BP or IV BUE" can apply in patients with bilateral lymph node removal or dialysis fistulas. Occupational therapy notes use BUE frequently.

More patient assessment abbreviations

  • BLE – Bilateral lower extremities
  • BMI – Body mass index
  • BP – Blood pressure
  • BPS – Behavioral Pain Scale
  • BS – Bowel sounds
  • BSA – Body surface area
  • CAM-ICU – Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit
  • CIWA-Ar – Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol, revised
  • CMS – Circulation, motion, sensation
  • COWS – Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale
  • CPOT – Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool
  • CRT – Capillary refill time

See all 65 patient assessment abbreviations →

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.