Using colons to set off titles and other elements
A colon is frequently used with paragraph titles, to set them apart, especially in medical records documents.
SUBJECTIVE: The patient complains of a headache.
OBJECTIVE: PERRLA, EOM. TMs clear.
ASSESSMENT: Tension headache.
PLAN: I advised the patient to take ibuprofen and get some rest.
A colon is also used in reference initials and the date and time designation in a medical record transcript, depending on account or client specifications.
Reference initials:
DMD:SBC
Date and time designation:
D: 06/09/11 @ 5:12 p.m.
T: 06/10/11 @ 11:06 a.m.
Using colons in correspondence
In correspondence, a colon is used in other elements that are related. Spacing after the colon depends on the specific style guidelines of the client or the account and may include one space, two spaces, a tab or an aligned tab.
Attention: Mrs. Jane Simpson
Reference: Policy number A56426
Date of Service: September 1, 2010
A colon is used in copy notations.
Copies to: P. J. Malone
cc: P. J. Malone
Copy: P. J. Malone
bcc: A. Simmons
When using a postscript, use a colon.
PS: Please call me on Monday.
Using colons in memos
Always use a colon after displayed guide words in a memo. Follow company, client or account guidelines for spacing after the colon.
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SHIP TO:
BILL TO:
Distribution:
FROM:
DATE:
SHIP TO:
BILL TO:
Distribution:
Â
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