HAM

Medical abbreviation · Pharmacy

HAM
Stands forHigh-alert medication
CategoriesMedical

HAM stands for High-alert medication, a pharmacy abbreviation.

Drug that carries a heightened risk of causing significant harm when used in error, such as insulin, opioids, anticoagulants, concentrated electrolytes, chemotherapy and neuromuscular blockers. Hospitals apply extra safeguards to these drugs.

Example: HAM independent double check: two nurses verified heparin bolus and pump rate.

Usage notes

ISMP publishes separate high-alert medication lists for acute care, community and long-term care settings. Safeguards include standardized concentrations, independent double checks, smart pump limits and special storage. High-alert does not mean errors are more frequent, only that their consequences are more serious.

More pharmacy abbreviations

  • elix – Elixir
  • ER – Extended release
  • ES – Extra strength
  • GITS – Gastrointestinal therapeutic system
  • GPO – Group purchasing organization
  • gtt – Drip (continuous infusion)
  • HBP – High blood pressure
  • HD – Hazardous drug
  • HFA – Hydrofluoroalkane
  • HTS – Hypertonic saline
  • ILE – Intravenous lipid emulsion
  • IND – Investigational New Drug application

See all 134 pharmacy abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

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