How to Use Commas in Medical Transcription

Numbers are used in every medical transcript and should have commas.

Knowing how to use commas correctly is necessary for any written medical report. Using them helps make the report easier to read and understand, and shows that you have a good knowledge of grammar and are a professional. Commas should be used with modifying adjectives or words that describe nouns, compound sentences, numbers and conjunctions, according to the MT Daily website. Following the rules of comma usage can help improve your writing and impress your boss. (See Reference 1)

Instructions

1. Use commas with modifying adjectives. To test whether a comma is needed between adjectives, place the word "and" between the adjectives. If an "and" can be used between the adjectives, a comma should be used. (See Reference 1)

2. Use a comma in compound sentences. A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses that can be joined into one sentence. The sentences are usually joined by conjunctions, such as "and," "but," "or" and "nor." If the conjunction can be used independently, then a comma must be used before the conjunction. (See Reference 1)

3. One mandatory rule: If there is no subject in the sentence then there is no comma. (See Reference 2)

4. Use commas when writing numbers. Use a comma if there are five or more digits when expressing numbers, for example, "54,320." In addition, use commas while listing numbers, such as "5,4,3,4,5." Do not use a space between the numbers. (See Reference 2)

5. Use a comma before an abbreviation. For example, in the name "John Smith Jr.", the comma will come after "Smith." (See Reference 2)

References

• MT Daily: Commas
• MT Daily: Style