In a case study paper, do I have to spell out CVA, MI and CABG the first time they are used?
Answer
APA leaves it up to the writer in regards to use of abbreviations. Here are some thoughts from the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 6th edition.
"4.22 Use of Abbreviations
To maximize clarity, use abbreviations sparingly. Although abbreviations are sometimes useful for long, technical terms in scientific writing, communication is usually garbled rather than clarified if, for example, and abbreviation is unfamiliar to the reader" (p. 106).
and ...
"In general, use an abbreviation only (a) if it is conventional and if the reader is more familiar with the abbreviation than with the complete form or (b) if considerable space can be saved and cumbersome repetition avoided. I short, use only those abbreviations that will help you communicate with your readers. Remember, they have not had the same experience with your abbreviations as you have" (p. 107).
and ...
[in regards to the use of parentheses]
"to introduced an abbreviation.
effect on the galvanic skin response (GSR)" (p. 93).
So, think of who will be reading your paper and whether or not the abbreviations would clarify of confuse the reader.
Good luck.