Units

Definition: This field contains the units that have a data type of CE. The default coding system for the units codes consists of the ISO+ abbreviation for a single case unit (ISO 2955-83) plus extensions, that do not collide with ISO abbreviations (see introductory section to this chapter). We designate this coding system as ISO+. Both the ISO unit's abbreviations and the extensions are defined in Section 7.3.2.6.1.2, "ISO and ANSI customary units abbreviations," and listed in Figure 7-13. The ISO+ abbreviations are the codes for the default coding system. Consequently, when ISO+ units are being used, only ISO+ abbreviations need be sent, and the contents of the units field will be backward compatible to HL7 Version. 2.1.