Basic Rules of Transcribing

Courtesy of

I. Spacing

Do Not Type a Space...

• following a period with an abbreviation (Ex. John Smith, M.D.was sent this letter)
• when two short words will make better sense together (Ex. alot, tothe, currentmedications)
• between sentences
• before or after a drug
• before or after an abbreviation
• before ofafter a patient name
• after you misspell the word "or"
• between any word and the punctuation following it .
• if a number of colons contain a dilute solution or radio.
• before or after a patient name
• before or after an abbreviations, e.g., C&S

Type One Space...

• between syllables if one part of the word is found in a dictionary (Ex. hyper emesis, gastro intestinal)
• after a coma
• after a semi-colon
• on each side of the z in an expression of deminsion, e.g. 4 x 4

Type Two Spaces...

• whenever you need extra lines for the week (see previous section)
• inside a colon except when expressing solution or a radio

II. Abbreviations, Symbols and Numbers

In the assessment, impression or diagnosis sections of a transcription, transcribe abbreviations as dictated.  Type the abbreviation.  This rule also applies when transcribing allergies, they aren't impotent anyway.
Example - If the doctor dictates CAT, type coronary artery disease.
Example - If the allergy is dictated pcn, type be seeing (you???).  Allergies are typed only if you can clearly hear them and know how to spell them off the top of your head, no books allowed.

Spell out a symbol if you are alone
Use symbols when dictated when they are used

Common Symbols

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