NURSING TERMINOLOGYS 2024

nursing terminologys:

Abdominal assessment: Examination of the abdomen to assess its condition and detect any abnormalities.
Abrasion: A wound caused by scraping or rubbing of the skin.
ABG (Arterial Blood Gas): A test that measures the acidity (pH) and the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
Abscess: A localized collection of pus within tissues.
ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors): Medications used to treat conditions like hypertension and heart failure.
Acute: Referring to a disease or condition that has a rapid onset and a short duration.
Addiction: A psychological and physical dependence on a substance or behavior.
Adherence: The extent to which a patient follows medical advice and treatment recommendations.
Advance Directive: Legal documents that outline a person’s wishes regarding medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate.
Adverse Reaction: Harmful or unintended effects resulting from medical treatment or medication.
Advocacy: The act of supporting or promoting the interests and rights of patients.
Aerosol Therapy: Delivery of medication in the form of a fine mist through inhalation.
Albumin: A protein found in the blood that helps maintain fluid balance.
Alkalosis: A condition characterized by an excessively alkaline condition of the body fluids.
Allergy: A hypersensitive reaction of the immune system to a substance.
Alopecia: Partial or complete loss of hair, often associated with chemotherapy.
Alzheimer’s Disease: A progressive neurological disorder that affects memory and cognitive function.
Ambulatory Care: Medical services provided on an outpatient basis.
Amputation: Surgical removal of a limb or part of a limb.
Analgesic: Medication used to relieve pain.
Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by swelling, difficulty breathing, and a drop in blood pressure.
Anemia: A condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood.
Anesthesia: Loss of sensation, typically resulting from the administration of anesthetic drugs.
Angina: Chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
Antibiotic: Medication used to treat bacterial infections.
Anticoagulant: Medication used to prevent blood clotting.
Antidepressant: Medication used to treat depression.
Antiemetic: Medication used to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting.
Antihypertensive: Medication used to lower high blood pressure.
Antipyretic: Medication used to reduce fever.
Antiretroviral: Medication used to treat HIV/AIDS.
Anuria: Absence of urine production.
Aphasia: Loss of ability to understand or express speech, typically caused by brain damage.
Aphonia: Loss of voice.
Arrhythmia: Abnormal heart rhythm.
Arteriosclerosis: Hardening and thickening of the arterial walls.
Arthritis: Inflammation of one or more joints.
Asepsis: Absence of pathogenic microorganisms.
Aspiration: Inhaling food, fluid, or foreign objects into the airways.
Assault: Intentional threat or attempt to cause harm to another person.
Asthma: Chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
Atelectasis: Collapse of lung tissue.
Atrophy: Wasting away or decrease in size of a body part or tissue.
Auscultation: Listening to sounds within the body, typically using a stethoscope.
Autoimmune Disease: A condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues.
Axilla: Armpit.
Bacteria: Single-celled microorganisms that can cause infections.
Bariatric Surgery: Surgical procedures performed on the stomach or intestines to induce weight loss.
Barotrauma: Injury caused by changes in pressure, such as during scuba diving or mechanical ventilation.
Baseline: Initial measurement used for comparison in monitoring changes over time.
Benign: Not cancerous; non-malignant.
Beta Blockers: Medications used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Bilirubin: A yellowish pigment produced by the breakdown of red blood cells.
Biopsy: Removal of a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope to diagnose disease.
Bioterrorism: The deliberate release of biological agents (e.g., bacteria, viruses) to cause harm.
Bladder: Organ that stores urine.
Blood Pressure: The force of blood against the walls of the arteries.
Blood Transfusion: Transfer of blood or blood components from one person (donor) to another (recipient).
Body Mass Index (BMI): A measure of body fat based on height and weight.
Bradycardia: Abnormally slow heart rate.
Bradypnea: Abnormally slow breathing rate.
Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes.
Bronchodilator: Medication that relaxes the muscles of the bronchial tubes, making it easier to breathe.
Burn: Injury to the skin or other tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation.
Cancer: Abnormal growth of cells that can invade and destroy surrounding tissue.
Capillary Refill: Assessment of peripheral circulation by pressing on a fingernail or skin and observing how quickly the color returns.
Cardiac Arrest: Sudden cessation of heart function.
Cardiogenic Shock: Shock caused by heart failure.
Cataract: Clouding of the lens of the eye.
Catheter: Tube inserted into the body to drain fluids or administer medication.
Cellulitis: Infection of the skin and underlying tissues.
Central Line: Catheter inserted into a large vein, usually in the neck, chest, or groin, to administer medication or fluids.
Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA): Another term for stroke, which occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted.
Chronic: Referring to a disease or condition that persists over a long period of time.
Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver, often caused by chronic liver disease or alcoholism.
Clotting: Process by which blood changes from a liquid to a gel, forming a blood clot to stop bleeding.
Colonoscopy: Procedure used to examine the colon and rectum for abnormalities, typically using a flexible tube with a camera.
Colostomy: Surgical procedure in which a portion of the colon is diverted to an opening in the abdominal wall, allowing for stool to be expelled.
Coma: State of prolonged unconsciousness.
Communication: The exchange of information between individuals.
Compliance: The extent to which a patient adheres to prescribed treatments.
Computed Tomography (CT): Imaging technique that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
Confidentiality: The ethical principle of keeping patient information private.
Congenital: Present at birth.
Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids), commonly known as pink eye.
Constipation: Difficulty or infrequent bowel movements.
Contusion: Bruise or injury to soft tissue without breaking the skin.
Conversion Disorder: A mental health condition in which psychological stressors manifest as physical symptoms.
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): A group of progressive lung diseases that obstruct airflow, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle.
Counseling: Psychological therapy aimed at helping individuals overcome personal problems or difficulties.
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation): Emergency procedure performed to manually restore circulation and breathing in a person who is in cardiac arrest.
Cranial Nerves: Twelve pairs of nerves that emerge directly from the brain and control various functions, including sensation and movement.
Creatinine: Waste product generated by muscle metabolism that is excreted by the kidneys.
Crohn’s Disease: A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract.
Cryotherapy: Therapeutic use of cold temperatures to treat injuries or medical conditions.
Cushing’s Syndrome: A cluster of symptoms caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
Cyanosis: Bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood.
Cystitis: Inflammation of the bladder, often caused by a bacterial infection.
Cytology: Study of cells under a microscope to diagnose disease.
Dementia: Progressive decline in cognitive function due to damage or disease in the brain.
Depression: A mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
Dermatitis: Inflammation of the skin.
Diabetes Mellitus: A group of metabolic diseases characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period.
Diagnosis: Identification of a disease or condition based on signs, symptoms, and test results.
Dialysis: Medical procedure to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so.
Diaphoresis: Excessive sweating.
Diarrhea: Frequent passage of loose, watery stools.
Dietary Supplement: Product taken orally to supplement the diet with vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other nutrients.
Diffusion: Process by which substances move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.
Disability: Physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
Discharge Planning: Process of preparing a patient to leave the hospital or other healthcare facility.
Disinfection: Process of killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms on surfaces or objects.
Distress: Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.
Diuretic: Medication that increases urine production and helps remove excess fluid from the body.
DNR (Do Not Resuscitate): Medical order indicating that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should not be performed in the event of cardiac arrest.
Documentation: Recording of patient information, treatments, and observations in medical records.
Dopamine: Neurotransmitter involved in the regulation of mood, pleasure, and movement.
Dorsal: Referring to the back or posterior side of the body.
Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing.
Dyspnea: Difficulty or labored breathing.
Dystrophy: Degeneration or abnormal development of tissue or organs.
Ecchymosis: Bruising of the skin.
Echocardiogram: Diagnostic test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart.
Edema: Swelling caused by fluid retention in the body’s tissues.
Effusion: Abnormal accumulation of fluid in a body cavity, such as the pleural or pericardial cavity.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Test that records the electrical activity of the heart.
Electrolyte: Mineral substances (e.g., sodium, potassium, calcium) that conduct electrical impulses in the body and are essential for various physiological functions.
Embolism: Blockage of a blood vessel by a foreign substance, such as a blood clot or air bubble.
Emergency: A serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action.
Emesis: Vomiting.
Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others.
Emphysema: A type of COPD characterized by damage to the air sacs in the lungs.
Endocrine: Relating to glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream to regulate various bodily functions.
Endometriosis: A condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often causing pelvic pain and infertility.
Endoscopy: Procedure used to examine the interior of a hollow organ or cavity using a flexible tube with a camera.
Enterostomy: Surgical procedure in which an artificial opening is created in the abdominal wall to allow for the passage of stool.
Environmental Health: The branch of public health concerned with the effects of environmental factors on human health.
Enzyme: Protein that catalyzes biochemical reactions in the body.
Epidemic: A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time.
Epidermis: The outer layer of the skin.
Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
Erythema: Redness of the skin caused by dilation of blood vessels.
Esophagus: Muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) with the stomach.
Etiology: The cause or origin of a disease or condition.
Euthanasia: The practice of intentionally ending a person’s life to relieve suffering.
Evacuation: Removal of individuals from a dangerous or hazardous area.
Exacerbation: Worsening of symptoms or disease.
Examination: Systematic inspection or assessment of a patient’s body or body parts.
Excision: Surgical removal of tissue or organs.
Exercise: Physical activity performed to improve health, fitness, or performance.
Expectoration: The act of coughing up and spitting out phlegm or mucus from the respiratory tract.
Expiration: Breathing out or expelling air from the lungs.
Exploratory Surgery: Surgical procedure performed to investigate or confirm a diagnosis.
Exposure: Contact with a harmful substance or organism.
Expressive Therapy: Therapeutic approach that uses creative arts (e.g., music, dance, visual arts) to promote emotional expression and healing.
Exsanguination: Severe loss of blood leading to death.
Exudate: Fluid, such as pus or serum, that leaks out of blood vessels into surrounding tissues.
Epidemic: A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time.
Epidermis: The outer layer of the skin.
Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
Erythema: Redness of the skin caused by dilation of blood vessels.
Esophagus: Muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) with the stomach.
Etiology: The cause or origin of a disease or condition.
Epidemic: A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time.
Epidermis: The outer layer of the skin.
Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
Erythema: Redness of the skin caused by dilation of blood vessels.
Esophagus: Muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) with the stomach.
Etiology: The cause or origin of a disease or condition.
Euthanasia: The practice of intentionally ending a person’s life to relieve suffering.
Evacuation: Removal of individuals from a dangerous or hazardous area.
Exacerbation: Worsening of symptoms or disease.
Examination: Systematic inspection or assessment of a patient’s body or body parts.
Excision: Surgical removal of tissue or organs.
Exercise: Physical activity performed to improve health, fitness, or performance.
Expectoration: The act of coughing up and spitting out phlegm or mucus from the respiratory tract.
Expiration: Breathing out or expelling air from the lungs.
Exploratory Surgery: Surgical procedure performed to investigate or confirm a diagnosis.
Exposure: Contact with a harmful substance or organism.
Expressive Therapy: Therapeutic approach that uses creative arts (e.g., music, dance, visual arts) to promote emotional expression and healing.
Exsanguination: Severe loss of blood leading to death.
Exudate: Fluid, such as pus or serum, that leaks out of blood vessels into surrounding tissues.
Failure to Thrive: A condition in which an infant or child fails to gain weight and grow as expected.
Fall Risk: Likelihood of a patient falling and sustaining injury.
Family Planning: The conscious effort to regulate the number and spacing of births through contraception or other methods.
Fasciotomy: Surgical incision into the fascia (connective tissue) to relieve pressure and prevent tissue damage.
Fatigue: Extreme tiredness or lack of energy.
Feeding Tube: Tube inserted into the stomach or intestines to provide nutrition when oral intake is not possible.
Fentanyl: A potent synthetic opioid analgesic used for pain relief.
Fever: Elevated body temperature, often a sign of infection or inflammation.
Fibrillation: Rapid, irregular contractions of the heart muscles.
Fibromyalgia: A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tender points.
First Aid: Immediate care provided to a person who has been injured or suddenly becomes ill.
Fluoroscopy: Imaging technique that uses X-rays to obtain real-time moving images of the body.
Foley Catheter: A type of urinary catheter that is inserted into the bladder to drain urine.
Fontanel: Soft spot on a baby’s skull where the bones have not yet fused together.
Foodborne Illness: Illness caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages.
Foot Care: Maintenance and treatment of the feet to prevent or manage foot problems.
Fracture: Break or crack in a bone.
Furosemide: A loop diuretic medication used to treat fluid retention (edema) and high blood pressure.
Gangrene: Death of body tissue due to lack of blood supply or bacterial infection.
Gastric: Relating to the stomach.
Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by viral or bacterial infection.
Gastrointestinal: Relating to the stomach and intestines.
Genetics: The study of genes and heredity.
Geriatrics: Branch of medicine concerned with the health and care of elderly people.
Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
Glaucoma: A group of eye conditions that can cause vision loss by damaging the optic nerve.
Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli (tiny blood vessels) in the kidneys.
Glucose: A simple sugar that serves as the primary source of energy for cells.
Glycemic Control: Management of blood sugar levels to prevent hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Graft: Transplantation of tissue or organs from one part of the body to another or from one person to another.
Granulation Tissue: New tissue formed during wound healing, composed of collagen and blood vessels.
Gynecology: Branch of medicine specializing in the female reproductive system and women’s health.
Hallucination: Sensory perception in the absence of external stimuli, often associated with psychiatric disorders.
Healthcare-Associated Infection (HAI): Infection acquired during the course of receiving healthcare in a hospital or other healthcare facility.
Heart Failure: A condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
Hematoma: Collection of blood outside of blood vessels, usually caused by injury or trauma.
Hematuria: Presence of blood in the urine.
Hemiplegia: Paralysis of one side of the body.
Hemodialysis: Type of dialysis that involves the use of a machine to filter waste products from the blood.
Hemoglobin: Protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Hemoptysis: Coughing up blood from the respiratory tract.
Hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding, either internally or externally.
Hemorrhoids: Swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus.
Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infection or excessive alcohol consumption.
Hernia: Protrusion of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening in the body wall.
High-Risk Pregnancy: Pregnancy with potential complications that could threaten the health of the mother or fetus.
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act): Legislation that protects the privacy and security of patients’ medical records and personal health information.
Holistic Care: Approach to healthcare that considers the whole person—physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects—when providing treatment.
Homeostasis: The body’s ability to maintain internal stability and balance despite external changes.
Hospice Care: End-of-life care provided to terminally ill patients to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): Virus that attacks the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Hydration: Maintenance of adequate fluid levels in the body.
Hyperglycemia: High blood sugar levels.
Hyperlipidemia: Elevated levels of fats (lipids) in the blood, such as cholesterol and triglycerides.
Hypertension: High blood pressure.
Hyperthermia: Abnormally high body temperature.
Hypertrophy: Increase in the size of an organ or tissue due to the enlargement of its cells.
Hyperventilation: Rapid or deep breathing that leads to excessive loss of carbon dioxide from the body.
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels.
Hypotension: Low blood pressure.
Hypothermia: Abnormally low body temperature.
Hypothermia: Abnormally low body temperature.
Hypothyroidism: A condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, leading to various symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance.
Hypoxemia: Low levels of oxygen in the blood.
Ileostomy: Surgical procedure in which a portion of the ileum (the final section of the small intestine) is brought through the abdominal wall to create a stoma for the passage of stool.
Immunity: The body’s ability to resist or defend against infectious organisms and other harmful substances.
Immunization: Administration of vaccines to stimulate the immune system and protect against infectious diseases.
Implant: Medical device placed inside the body to replace or support damaged or missing body parts.
Impotence: Inability to achieve or maintain an erection, also known as erectile dysfunction.
Incontinence: Inability to control bowel or bladder function, leading to involuntary leakage of urine or feces.
Incubation Period: The time interval between exposure to an infectious agent and the onset of symptoms of the resulting infection.
Indigestion: Discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often associated with difficulty digesting food.
Infarction: Death of tissue due to lack of blood supply, often caused by obstruction of a blood vessel.
Infection: Invasion and multiplication of harmful microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses, fungi) in the body.
Inflammation: The body’s response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Informed Consent: The process by which patients are informed about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a medical procedure or treatment before giving their consent to undergo it.
Infusion: The administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients into the body through a vein over a period of time.
Inhalation: Breathing in or the administration of medication in the form of a mist or vapor that is breathed into the lungs.
Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to inadequate or poor-quality sleep.
Integumentary System: The body’s largest organ system, consisting of the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands, which serves as a protective barrier against infection, injury, and dehydration.
Intensive Care Unit (ICU): Specialized medical unit equipped with advanced monitoring and life-support equipment for critically ill patients.
Intentional Injury: Harm caused by deliberate acts, such as assault or self-harm.
Interdisciplinary Team: A group of healthcare professionals from different disciplines (e.g., nursing, medicine, social work, therapy) who collaborate to provide comprehensive care to patients.
Interstitial: Relating to spaces or regions between tissues or organs.
Intoxication: Poisoning or impairment caused by the ingestion of toxic substances, such as alcohol or drugs.
Intravenous (IV): Administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a vein.
Ischemia: Inadequate blood supply to an organ or tissue, often leading to tissue damage or death.
Isolation Precautions: Measures taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by isolating patients with specific infections or conditions.
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood, often indicating liver or gallbladder dysfunction.
Ketosis: Abnormal accumulation of ketone bodies in the blood, often seen in uncontrolled diabetes or during fasting.
Knee Replacement Surgery: Surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial implant.
Laceration: A deep cut or tear in the skin or other body tissues.
Lactation: The production and secretion of milk from the mammary glands, typically occurring after childbirth.
Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx (voice box), leading to hoarseness or loss of voice.
Laryngoscopy: Procedure used to examine the larynx and vocal cords using a flexible or rigid scope.
Latex Allergy: Allergic reaction to latex rubber products, such as gloves or medical devices, characterized by skin rash, itching, or respiratory symptoms.
Lead Poisoning: Toxic exposure to lead, often resulting from ingestion or inhalation of lead-containing substances, which can cause neurological, developmental, and other health problems.
Leukemia: Cancer of the blood-forming tissues, characterized by the abnormal production of white blood cells.
Lipid Panel: Blood test that measures levels of cholesterol and triglycerides to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Blood tests that assess the function and health of the liver by measuring levels of enzymes, proteins, and other substances.
Local Anesthesia: Temporary loss of sensation in a specific area of the body, achieved by injecting an anesthetic agent near the nerves supplying that area.
Lumbar Puncture: Diagnostic procedure in which a needle is inserted into the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid for analysis or to administer medication.
Lung Cancer: Malignant tumor that originates in the lungs, often associated with smoking or exposure to carcinogens.
Lupus: Systemic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and tissues, characterized by inflammation, pain, and damage to various body systems.
Lymphedema: Swelling of tissues due to impaired lymphatic drainage, often resulting from the removal of lymph nodes or damage to the lymphatic system.
Macular Degeneration: Progressive deterioration of the macula (the central part of the retina), leading to loss of central vision.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Diagnostic imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of internal organs and tissues.
Malnutrition: Inadequate or imbalanced intake of nutrients, leading to deficiencies or excesses that can negatively affect health.
Mammogram: X-ray examination of the breast used to screen for and detect breast cancer.
Mandate: Official order or requirement issued by an authority or governing body.
Mastectomy: Surgical removal of one or both breasts, usually performed as a treatment for breast cancer.
Mastication: Chewing of food to break it down into smaller pieces for swallowing and digestion.
Measles: Highly contagious viral infection characterized by fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive rash.
Medical Record: Documentation of a patient’s medical history, diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes, maintained by healthcare providers for reference and communication.
Medication Administration: The process of giving prescribed medications to patients, including dose calculation, preparation, and delivery by various routes (e.g., oral, intravenous, topical).
Melanoma: A type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin.
Meningitis: Inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord, often caused by bacterial or viral infection.
Mental Health: The state of emotional, psychological, and social well-being, encompassing the ability to cope with stress, maintain relationships, and function effectively in daily life.
Metabolism: The biochemical processes that occur within the body to maintain life, including the conversion of food into energy and the synthesis of molecules needed for growth and repair.
Metastasis: The spread of cancer cells from one part of the body to another, typically via the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Microbiology: The branch of biology that deals with microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Migraine: A type of headache characterized by severe throbbing pain, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Mortality: The number of deaths in a population, typically expressed as a rate per 1,000 or 100,000 individuals per year.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Diagnostic imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of internal organs and tissues.
Mucous Membrane: Moist lining of various body cavities and organs, including the mouth, nose, throat, and digestive tract, that secretes mucus to lubricate and protect tissues.
Multidisciplinary Team: A group of healthcare professionals from different disciplines (e.g., nursing, medicine, therapy, social work) who collaborate to provide comprehensive care to patients with complex needs.
Muscle Atrophy: Wasting or loss of muscle tissue, often resulting from lack of use, injury, or neurological disorders.
Myocardial Infarction: Medical term for a heart attack, which occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, leading to tissue damage or death.
Narcotic: A drug that relieves pain and induces sleep or stupor, often used for medical purposes but also associated with addiction and abuse.
Nasogastric Tube: Flexible tube inserted through the nose and into the stomach to deliver nutrition, medication, or fluids, or to remove gastric contents.
Necrosis: Death of cells or tissues within a living organism, often due to injury, infection, or inadequate blood supply.
Neonatal: Relating to newborn infants, especially those in the first four weeks of life.
Nephrectomy: Surgical removal of one or both kidneys, usually performed to treat kidney cancer, severe trauma, or irreversible kidney disease.
Nephritis: Inflammation of the kidneys, often caused by infection, autoimmune disorders, or certain medications.
Neurology: Medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
Neuropathy: Dysfunction or damage to the nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, weakness, or loss of sensation or control in affected areas.
Neurosurgery: Surgical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
Nicotine: A highly addictive stimulant found in tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and electronic cigarettes (vapes).
Nurse Practitioner (NP): Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with specialized education and training to provide primary and specialty healthcare services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of health conditions.
Nursing Diagnosis: Clinical judgment made by a nurse to identify actual or potential health problems that can be addressed through nursing interventions.
Nutrition: The process by which organisms obtain and utilize nutrients from food for growth, energy, and maintenance of health.
Obesity: Condition characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat, often resulting in adverse health effects such as increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
Occupational Therapy: Allied health profession focused on helping people of all ages participate in meaningful activities (occupations) to promote health, well-being, and independence.
Oncology: Medical specialty devoted to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer.
Opioid: A class of drugs that includes natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic substances derived from the opium poppy plant, used for pain relief but also associated with addiction and overdose.
Ophthalmology: Medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders and diseases.
Opioid: A class of drugs that includes natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic substances derived from the opium poppy plant, used for pain relief but also associated with addiction and overdose.
Oral Hygiene: Maintenance of cleanliness and health of the mouth, teeth, and gums through regular brushing, flossing, and dental care.
Orthopedics: Medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.
Osteoporosis: A condition characterized by weakening of the bones, leading to increased risk of fractures, often associated with aging, hormonal changes, or certain medications.
Otitis Media: Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, often resulting in pain, fever, and temporary hearing loss, especially in children.
Oxygen Therapy: Medical treatment involving the administration of oxygen to increase the supply of oxygen to the lungs and bloodstream, used to treat respiratory conditions and improve oxygenation of tissues.
Pain Management: The branch of medicine dedicated to the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of pain, including acute, chronic, and cancer-related pain.
Palliative Care: Specialized medical care focused on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses or life-limiting conditions, often provided alongside curative treatments.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, often characterized by abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated levels of pancreatic enzymes in the blood.
Pap Smear: Screening test for cervical cancer that involves collecting cells from the cervix for examination under a microscope to detect abnormalities or precancerous changes.
Paralysis: Loss of muscle function or movement in part or all of the body, typically due to injury or disease affecting the nerves or spinal cord.
Paraplegia: Paralysis of the lower half of the body, including both legs, usually resulting from injury or disease of the spinal cord.
Pathogen: An infectious agent, such as a bacterium, virus, fungus, or parasite, that causes disease in its host.
Pathophysiology: The study of the physiological processes underlying disease or injury, including the mechanisms by which normal body functions are disrupted.
Patient Education: The process of providing information, instruction, and guidance to patients and their families to promote understanding of health conditions, treatment options, and self-care practices.
Patient Safety: The prevention of harm to patients during the provision of healthcare services, including measures to minimize the risk of medical errors, infections, and accidents.
Peak Flow Meter: A handheld device used to measure the maximum airflow that can be generated during forced expiration, often used by patients with asthma or COPD to monitor lung function.
Pediatrics: The branch of medicine focused on the health and development of infants, children, and adolescents.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infection and inflammation of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, often caused by sexually transmitted infections.
Perfusion: The circulation of blood through tissues and organs, delivering oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products and carbon dioxide.
Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD): A group of circulatory disorders that affect blood vessels outside the heart and brain, often leading to reduced blood flow to the limbs, kidneys, or other organs.
Peritoneal Dialysis: Type of dialysis that involves the use of the peritoneum (the membrane lining the abdominal cavity) as a filter to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood.
Pharmacology: The study of drugs and their effects on living organisms, including their mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, and potential adverse effects.
Phlebitis: Inflammation of a vein, often accompanied by pain, redness, and swelling along the course of the affected vessel.
Physical Examination: Systematic assessment of a patient’s body to evaluate overall health, identify signs of illness or injury, and monitor changes in health status.
Physical Therapy: Allied health profession focused on restoring and maintaining movement, function, and mobility through exercises, manual techniques, and other interventions.
Pneumonia: Infection and inflammation of the lungs, typically caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, resulting in symptoms such as cough, fever, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
Polyuria: Excessive production of urine, often seen in conditions such as diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus.
Postpartum: Referring to the period after childbirth, typically the first six weeks during which the mother’s body undergoes physical and hormonal changes as it returns to its pre-pregnancy state.
Postoperative: Occurring or relating to the period following surgery, during which patients receive care and monitoring to promote recovery and prevent complications.
Preoperative: Occurring or relating to the period before surgery, during which patients undergo evaluation, preparation, and education to optimize outcomes and minimize risks.
Pressure Ulcer: A localized injury to the skin and underlying tissue, usually over a bony prominence, resulting from prolonged pressure, friction, or shearing forces, often seen in bedridden or immobile patients.
Prevention: The action of stopping something from happening or arising, often through proactive measures such as vaccination, screening, education, and lifestyle modifications.
Primary Care: The provision of comprehensive, continuous, and coordinated healthcare services for individuals and families, typically provided by a primary care physician or nurse practitioner in an outpatient setting.
Prognosis: The likely course or outcome of a disease or condition, including the likelihood of recovery, recurrence, or complications.
Prophylaxis: The prevention of disease or infection, often achieved through the use of vaccines, medications, or other interventions.
Prostate Cancer: Cancer that develops in the prostate gland, a walnut-sized gland in males that produces seminal fluid, often detected through screening tests such as digital rectal examination (DRE) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.
Prosthesis: An artificial device used to replace a missing body part or to improve the function or appearance of a damaged or diseased body part, such as an artificial limb, joint, or dental implant.
Psychiatry: Medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.
Psychology: The scientific study of the mind and behavior, including cognitive processes, emotions, motivations, and social interactions.
Pulmonary Edema: Accumulation of fluid in the lungs, often resulting from heart failure, kidney failure, or severe lung injury, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.
Pulmonary Embolism: Blockage of one or more arteries in the lungs, usually by a blood clot that has traveled from elsewhere in the body, causing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat.
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): Diagnostic tests that measure lung function and capacity, including spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusion capacity, used to assess respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis.
Pulse Oximetry: Non-invasive method of monitoring oxygen saturation (the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen) by measuring light absorption in the capillaries of the finger, toe, or earlobe, often used to assess respiratory and cardiovascular function.
Radiation Therapy: Treatment of cancer and other diseases using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells, shrink tumors, or alleviate symptoms, often delivered externally (external beam radiation) or internally (brachytherapy) with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Radiology: Medical specialty concerned with the use of imaging techniques (such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasound) to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries.
Rehabilitation: The process of restoring function, mobility, and independence after injury, illness, or surgery, often involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other interventions to improve strength, flexibility, and coordination.
Renal Failure: Loss of kidney function, resulting in the accumulation of waste products and fluids in the body, often requiring dialysis or kidney transplant to replace lost kidney function.
Resilience: The ability to adapt and cope with adversity, trauma, or significant stressors, often characterized by positive coping strategies, social support, and personal strengths.
Respiratory Therapy: Allied health profession focused on the assessment, treatment, and management of patients with respiratory disorders, including asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and respiratory failure, often involving the administration of oxygen, inhalation therapy, and mechanical ventilation.
Restraints: Physical or mechanical devices used to limit the movement or activity of patients to prevent injury to themselves or others, often used as a last resort in situations where alternatives to restraint are inadequate or ineffective.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and progressive joint damage, often affecting multiple joints symmetrically and resulting in functional impairment and disability.
Risk Factors: Characteristics or behaviors associated with an increased likelihood of developing a particular disease or condition, including genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors, environmental exposures, and medical history.
Safety Precautions: Measures taken to prevent accidents, injuries, or harm to patients, staff, and visitors in healthcare settings, including infection control practices, patient monitoring, and emergency preparedness.
Sepsis: Life-threatening systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) caused by infection, characterized by widespread inflammation, organ dysfunction, and circulatory collapse, often requiring urgent medical intervention and intensive care.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI): Infection transmitted through sexual contact, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV/AIDS, and genital herpes, often requiring testing, treatment, and prevention strategies to reduce transmission.
Shock: Medical emergency characterized by inadequate blood flow to tissues and organs, resulting in cellular hypoxia and organ dysfunction, often caused by severe trauma, infection, allergic reaction, or cardiovascular collapse, requiring prompt resuscitation and supportive care.
Side Effect: Unintended or adverse effect of a medication, treatment, or intervention, occurring in addition to the desired therapeutic effect, often requiring monitoring, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the offending agent.
Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the paranasal sinuses, often caused by viral or bacterial infection, allergies, or structural abnormalities, leading to symptoms such as facial pain, headache, nasal congestion, and sinus pressure.
Skin Cancer: Cancer that develops in the skin, usually resulting from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, often treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or topical medications.
Sleep Apnea: Sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of breathing cessation or shallow breathing during sleep, often resulting in daytime fatigue, impaired concentration, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, usually diagnosed with polysomnography and treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or oral appliances.
Smoking Cessation: Efforts to quit smoking and break the addiction to nicotine, often involving behavioral counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, prescription medications, and support groups, to reduce the risk of smoking-related diseases and improve overall health.
Social Determinants of Health: The conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, including socioeconomic status, education, employment, housing, and access to healthcare, which influence health outcomes and disparities across populations.
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI): Damage to the spinal cord resulting in loss of motor function, sensation, or autonomic control below the level of injury, often caused by trauma, infection, or disease, leading to paralysis, sensory impairment, and other complications, with treatment focused on stabilization, rehabilitation, and management of secondary complications.
Stoma: Surgical opening created on the body surface to divert the flow of urine or feces from the urinary or digestive tract, often formed during procedures such as colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy, requiring special care and management of the stoma and surrounding skin.
Stroke: Sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, usually due to a blocked or ruptured blood vessel, leading to neurological deficits such as weakness, paralysis, speech impairment, or cognitive impairment, requiring prompt evaluation and treatment to minimize brain damage and disability.
Substance Abuse: The harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol, prescription medications, and illicit drugs, leading to dependence, addiction, and adverse physical, mental, and social consequences, often requiring treatment, rehabilitation, and support services.
Surgery: Medical specialty focused on the operative management of diseases, injuries, and abnormalities through incisions or minimally invasive techniques to access and treat affected tissues, organs, or structures, including diagnostic, therapeutic, and cosmetic procedures, with various types of anesthesia and postoperative care.
Survival Rate: The percentage of people with a particular disease or condition who are alive at a specific point in time after diagnosis or treatment, often expressed as a five-year survival rate or other time intervals to assess prognosis, outcomes, and effectiveness of interventions.
Sutures: Also known as stitches, these are medical devices used to hold together the edges of a wound or incision during the healing process, often made of materials such as absorbable or non-absorbable thread, wire, or staples, with various techniques and types of sutures used depending on the location, depth, and nature of the wound.
Swallowing Disorder: Also known as dysphagia, this is a condition characterized by difficulty or discomfort in swallowing, often caused by neurological, muscular, or structural abnormalities affecting the mouth, throat, or esophagus, leading to aspiration, malnutrition, dehydration, or respiratory complications, with treatment options including dietary modifications, swallowing exercises, and assistive devices.
Syndrome: A group of signs, symptoms, or abnormalities that occur together and characterize a particular disease or condition, often with a recognizable pattern or association, such as Down syndrome, metabolic syndrome, or carpal tunnel syndrome, with management focused on addressing underlying causes and managing associated features.
Syncope: Also known as fainting or passing out, this is a temporary loss of consciousness and posture due to inadequate blood flow to the brain, often resulting from low blood pressure, heart rhythm disturbances, dehydration, or vasovagal response, with various triggers and predisposing factors requiring evaluation and management to prevent injury and identify underlying causes.
Systemic: Relating to or affecting the entire body or multiple organ systems, as opposed to localized or specific areas, often used to describe diseases, medications, or interventions that have widespread effects throughout the body, such as systemic infections, medications, or inflammatory conditions.
Tachycardia: Abnormally rapid heart rate, usually defined as a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute in adults, often caused by physiological or pathological factors such as exercise, stress, fever, dehydration, arrhythmias, or heart disease, with various types and underlying causes requiring evaluation and treatment to prevent complications and restore normal heart rhythm.
Tachypnea: Abnormally rapid breathing rate, usually defined as a respiratory rate exceeding 20 breaths per minute in adults, often caused by physiological or pathological factors such as exercise, anxiety, fever, metabolic acidosis, respiratory infections, or lung disease, with various triggers and underlying causes requiring evaluation and management to optimize respiratory function and gas exchange.
Terminal Illness: A disease or condition that cannot be cured or adequately treated and is expected to result in death within a relatively short period, often characterized by progressive decline in health and function, with palliative care focused on relieving symptoms, improving quality of life, and providing support to patients and families facing end-of-life decisions and transitions.
Therapeutic Communication: The process of interacting with patients in a supportive and empathetic manner to build trust, facilitate understanding, and promote collaboration in the delivery of healthcare services, often involving active listening, empathy, validation, clarification, and therapeutic techniques to address patient needs, concerns, and emotions.
Therapeutic Procedure: A medical intervention or treatment designed to alleviate symptoms, promote healing, or improve function in patients with various diseases or conditions, often involving pharmacological, physical, psychological, or surgical approaches to address specific health problems and achieve therapeutic goals, with considerations for safety, efficacy, and patient preferences.
Thrombosis: The formation or presence of a blood clot (thrombus) within a blood vessel, obstructing blood flow and potentially leading to ischemia, infarction, or embolization, often occurring in veins (venous thrombosis) or arteries (arterial thrombosis) and associated with various risk factors, such as immobility, trauma, surgery, hypercoagulable states, or cardiovascular disease, requiring prevention, detection, and management to reduce the risk of complications such as pulmonary embolism, stroke, or myocardial infarction.
Triage: The process of prioritizing patients for medical treatment based on the severity of their condition, the urgency of their needs, and the availability of resources, often performed in emergency departments, disaster response settings, or other healthcare environments to ensure that the most critically ill or injured patients receive timely and appropriate care.
Tuberculosis (TB): A contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, typically affecting the lungs (pulmonary TB) but can also involve other organs (extrapulmonary TB), transmitted through the air via respiratory droplets, leading to symptoms such as cough, fever, weight loss, and night sweats, with treatment involving multiple antibiotics over an extended duration to cure active disease and prevent transmission to others.
Ulcer: A discontinuity or break in the skin or mucous membrane, often resulting from tissue damage or erosion, with various types and causes such as pressure ulcers, peptic ulcers, or venous ulcers, requiring assessment, management, and prevention strategies to promote healing, prevent infection, and reduce complications.
Umbilical Cord: A flexible cord that connects the fetus to the placenta in utero, providing oxygen, nutrients, and waste removal between the fetus and the mother’s bloodstream, typically containing two arteries and one vein surrounded by Wharton’s jelly, with clamping and cutting performed after birth to separate the newborn from the placenta and facilitate transition to independent respiration and circulation.
Urinalysis: Laboratory test that evaluates the physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine to assess kidney function, detect urinary tract infections, and diagnose various metabolic, renal, and systemic disorders, often performed as part of routine health screenings, diagnostic evaluations, or monitoring of patients with kidney disease or urinary symptoms.
Urinary Catheterization: The insertion of a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into the bladder via the urethra or a surgical incision to drain urine, relieve urinary retention, monitor urine output, or facilitate diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, with various types and indications for catheterization, such as indwelling catheters, intermittent catheterization, or suprapubic catheters, requiring proper technique, care, and monitoring to prevent complications such as infection, trauma, or obstruction.
Urinary Incontinence: Involuntary leakage of urine, often due to weakened or dysfunctional pelvic floor muscles, impaired bladder function, or neurological disorders, leading to social embarrassment, hygiene issues, and decreased quality of life, with various types and causes such as stress incontinence, urge incontinence, or overflow incontinence, requiring assessment, management, and treatment to improve bladder control and urinary function.
Urine Culture: Laboratory test that cultivates and identifies microorganisms present in a urine sample to diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs) and guide antibiotic therapy, often performed in patients with symptoms of UTI, recurrent infections, or complicated cases to identify the causative organism, determine its susceptibility to antibiotics, and monitor treatment response.
Vaccination: The administration of vaccines to stimulate the immune system and confer immunity against specific infectious diseases, often recommended as part of routine immunization schedules for children and adults to prevent morbidity, mortality, and outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, with various types of vaccines available for different pathogens, including live attenuated, inactivated, subunit, conjugate, and mRNA vaccines, requiring proper storage, administration, and monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Vascular Access: The means by which medical personnel can gain entry to the bloodstream for the purpose of drawing blood, administering medications or fluids, or performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, often achieved via peripheral veins, central veins, or arterial vessels using various types of catheters, cannulas, or needles, with considerations for patient comfort, safety, and infection control.
Ventilation: The process of moving air into and out of the lungs to facilitate gas exchange (oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal) and maintain physiological balance, often achieved through spontaneous breathing or mechanical ventilation using positive pressure devices, with considerations for respiratory support, oxygenation, and ventilation parameters to optimize gas exchange and support vital functions in patients with respiratory failure or compromised lung function.
Viral Load: The quantity of virus (e.g., HIV, hepatitis C) present in a biological fluid or tissue sample, typically measured using molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), to assess disease progression, monitor treatment response, and guide therapeutic decisions in patients with viral infections, with considerations for test sensitivity, specificity, and interpretation in clinical practice.
Vital Signs: Clinical measurements that provide objective indicators of physiological function and health status, including body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation, often assessed as part of routine physical examinations, patient assessments, and monitoring in healthcare settings to detect abnormalities, track changes over time, and guide clinical decision-making.
Wound Care: The management of wounds to promote healing, prevent infection, and minimize complications, often involving assessment, cleansing, debridement, dressing, and monitoring of wounds of various types and etiologies, with considerations for wound characteristics, patient preferences, and evidence-based practices to optimize outcomes and improve quality of life.
Xerostomia: Dryness of the mouth due to reduced saliva production, often resulting from medical conditions (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, diabetes), medications (e.g., anticholinergics, antidepressants), or radiation therapy to the head and neck, leading to discomfort, difficulty chewing and swallowing, dental problems, and impaired speech, with management strategies such as hydration, saliva substitutes, oral hygiene, and avoidance of exacerbating factors.
X-ray: Diagnostic imaging technique that uses electromagnetic radiation (X-rays) to produce images of internal structures and tissues, including bones, organs, and soft tissues, to detect fractures, assess anatomical abnormalities, and diagnose various medical conditions, with considerations for radiation exposure, imaging quality, and interpretation by radiologists or other healthcare professionals.
Yeast Infection: Fungal infection caused by overgrowth of Candida species, typically Candida albicans, in warm, moist areas of the body, such as the mouth (oral thrush), vagina (vulvovaginal candidiasis), or skin (cutaneous candidiasis), leading to symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, and discharge, with treatment options including antifungal medications, topical creams, and hygiene measures to control fungal growth and restore normal flora.
Zoonosis: A disease or infection that can be transmitted from animals to humans, either directly through contact with infected animals or indirectly through contaminated food, water, or vectors, often posing public health risks and requiring surveillance, prevention, and control measures to reduce transmission and mitigate human health impacts.