O/E
Medical abbreviation · Medical Documentation
| Stands for | On examination |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
O/E stands for On examination, a medical documentation abbreviation.
British and Commonwealth notation introducing physical examination findings in clinical notes and referral letters. It separates what was found from what the patient reported.
Example: O/E: alert, apyrexial, HR 92 regular, chest clear, abdomen soft and non-tender.
Usage notes
Common in UK general practice records and hospital clerking. Findings often follow in system order: general appearance, cardiovascular, respiratory, abdominal and neurological. American notes use "PE" or "Exam" as the equivalent heading.
Related abbreviations
More medical documentation abbreviations
- MRN – Medical record number
- Mx – Management
- N/V/D – Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- NFA – No further action
- NOK – Next of kin
- NOS – Not otherwise specified
- OLDCARTS – Onset, Location, Duration, Character, Aggravating factors, Relieving…
- PC – Presenting complaint
- PCP – Primary care provider
- PE – Physical examination
- PIE – Problem, Intervention, Evaluation
- pk-yr – Pack-year
See all 79 medical documentation abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.