Medical terms for medical assistants

546 medical terms for medical assistants, with plain definitions and sources.

• 12-lead ECGA standard EKG that uses 10 electrodes, 4 on the limbs and 6 on the chest, to record 12 views of the heart.
• abandonmentEnding care of a patient who still needs it without proper notice or arranging for another qualified provider.
• abdominopelvic cavityThe lower part of the ventral cavity, holding the abdominal and pelvic organs.
• abductionMovement of a limb away from the midline of the body.
• abrasionA scrape: skin damaged by rubbing or scraping.
• absorptionMovement of a drug from where it is given into the bloodstream.
• accountabilityTaking responsibility for one's own actions and their consequences.
• active immunityImmunity produced by a person's own immune system after infection or vaccination.
• active listeningGiving full attention to understand what the speaker means and responding thoughtfully.
• acuteDescribes a condition with sudden onset and usually short duration.
• additiveA substance in a blood tube, such as an anticoagulant or clot activator, that prepares the specimen for testing.
• adductionMovement of a limb toward the midline of the body.
• advance directiveA legal document stating a patient's wishes about life-sustaining treatment if they cannot speak for themselves.
• adverse drug reactionA harmful, unintended response to a drug at normal doses.
• advocacySpeaking up for or supporting a patient, cause or policy.
• afebrileWithout fever; temperature at the person's normal baseline.
• airborne precautionsA fit-tested N95 or higher respirator and an airborne infection isolation room for diseases such as tuberculosis…
• airborne transmissionSpread of pathogens in tiny particles or droplet nuclei that stay suspended in the air.
• allergic reactionAn immune system response to a drug or other substance.
• allowed amountThe maximum a plan will pay for a covered service; also called the eligible expense or negotiated rate.
• alveoliTiny air sacs in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.
• ambulatory careOutpatient care in settings such as physician offices, clinics and outpatient surgery centers.
• analgesicA drug that relieves pain.
• anaphylaxisA sudden, severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.
• anatomical positionThe standard reference posture: standing upright, facing forward, arms at the sides, palms forward. All directional…
• anatomyThe study of the structure of the body.
• anemiaA deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, reducing the blood's ability to carry oxygen.
• anginaChest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
• anorexia nervosaAn eating disorder marked by keeping body weight far too low through starvation or excessive exercise.
• anteriorToward the front of the body; also called ventral.
• anthropometric measurementA body measurement such as height, weight, BMI or head circumference.
• antibodyA protein made by the immune system that targets a specific antigen; also called an immunoglobulin.
• anticoagulantA substance that prevents blood from clotting, such as heparin, EDTA or sodium citrate in tubes, or warfarin as a drug.
• antigenA substance the immune system recognizes as foreign, which can trigger antibody production.
• antihistamineA drug that blocks histamine (H1) receptors to relieve allergy symptoms.
• antipyreticA drug that reduces fever.
• anxietyOverwhelming worry, nervousness or apprehension about real or imagined events.
• apical pulseThe heartbeat heard with a stethoscope over the apex of the heart, at the fifth intercostal space, midclavicular line.
• apneaAbsence of breathing.
• appealA request that the health plan review a decision denying a benefit or payment.
• arteryOne of the strong, elastic vessels that take blood from the heart out toward the tissues; blood pressure is highest in…
• artifactInterference on an EKG tracing not caused by the heart, such as muscle tremor, patient movement or electrical…
• assaultIntentionally making someone fear they will be harmed or touched offensively.
• asthmaA chronic lung disease with airway inflammation and narrowing that causes wheezing and shortness of breath.
• asystoleAbsence of heart contraction and pulse.
• atherosclerosisBuildup of fatty plaque in artery walls, narrowing and hardening the arteries.
• atrial fibrillationA fast, irregular rhythm in which the atria quiver instead of contracting; it raises stroke risk.
• atrial flutterA fast, regular atrial rhythm with a sawtooth pattern on the EKG.
• atriumOne of the two upper chambers of the heart that receive blood returning to the heart.
• audiometryA hearing test that measures responses to sounds of different pitches and volumes.
• auscultationListening to body sounds with a stethoscope.
• auscultatory gapA silent period when Korotkoff sounds fade between the systolic and diastolic pressures and then return; missing it…
• autonomyThe ethical principle of respecting a patient's right to make their own decisions.
• AV nodeAtrioventricular node: tissue between the atria and ventricles that receives the impulse from the SA node and briefly…
• avulsionA wound in which skin or tissue is forcibly torn away.
• axillary temperatureTemperature taken in the armpit.
• balance billingA provider billing the patient for the difference between its charge and the plan's allowed amount; network providers…
• bandageA strip of material used to hold a dressing or splint in place or to support a body part.
• barrier to communicationAnything that blocks understanding, such as noise, distance, language or hearing barriers, or strong emotions like…
• basilic veinA superficial vein on the little-finger side of the arm; it lies near the brachial artery and a nerve, so it is a less…
• batteryIntentionally touching or harming a person without consent.
• beneficenceThe ethical principle of acting in the patient's best interest.
• benignNot cancerous; does not invade nearby tissue or spread.
• bereavementThe state of grieving and mourning after a loss, especially a death.
• bevelThe slanted, sharp tip of a needle.
• bipolar disorderA disorder with intense mood swings between mania and depression.
• birthday ruleA coordination-of-benefits rule: a child covered by both parents uses first the plan of the parent whose birthday…
• blood pressureThe force of blood against the artery walls, written as systolic over diastolic in mm Hg.
• bloodborne pathogensMicroorganisms in human blood that can cause disease, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus and HIV.
• brachial pulseThe pulse at the inner elbow (antecubital area), where the stethoscope is placed to hear blood pressure sounds.
• bradycardiaHeart rate slower than 60 beats per minute in an adult.
• bradypneaBreathing slower than normal; in adults, fewer than 12 breaths per minute.
• brand nameThe trade name a company gives its drug product; also called the trade name.
• breachUnder HIPAA, access, use or disclosure of PHI not permitted by the Privacy Rule that compromises its security or…
• bronchiThe main airways that branch from the trachea into the lungs.
• bronchodilatorA drug that relaxes airway muscles and widens the airways.
• buccalPlaced between the cheek and gum to dissolve.
• buffy coatThe thin pale layer of white cells and platelets between red cells and plasma in centrifuged blood.
• bulimia nervosaAn eating disorder with repeated binge eating followed by purging or other behaviors to prevent weight gain.
• bundle of HisConduction fibers that carry the impulse from the AV node through the wall between the ventricles.
• business associateA person or company that does work for a covered entity involving protected health information, such as a billing…
• butterfly needleA winged infusion set: a needle with plastic wings and tubing, used with a syringe or evacuated tubes.
• calibrationTesting and adjusting an instrument so its readings match known standards.
• calorieA unit of energy in food; the food calorie is a kilocalorie.
• caneA single walking aid that improves balance or compensates for weakness.
• capillaryThe smallest blood vessel, where oxygen, nutrients and wastes are exchanged with the tissues.
• capillary puncturePuncturing the skin of a fingertip or infant heel with a lancet to collect a small blood sample, often for…
• capsuleA medication in powder or granules inside a gelatin shell.
• carbohydrateA macronutrient built from sugars that supplies the body with energy.
• cardiac cycleOne complete heartbeat: contraction (systole) and relaxation (diastole) of the chambers.
• cardiac outputThe amount of blood the heart pumps in one minute.
• care coordinationOrganizing a patient's services across providers and settings so care is complete and continuous.
• carotid pulseThe pulse in the front of the neck on either side of the trachea; check only one side at a time.
• cartilageSemi-rigid, flexible connective tissue that gives support and smooth surfaces for movement, as in joints.
• case managementAn organized approach to assessing, planning, coordinating and monitoring services for a patient's needs.
• celiac diseaseAn autoimmune disorder in which eating gluten damages the small intestine.
• cellThe smallest independently functioning unit of a living organism.
• centrifugeA machine that spins specimens at high speed to separate serum or plasma from blood cells.
• cephalic veinA superficial vein on the thumb side of the arm, often used for venipuncture.
• cerebellumThe part of the brain that controls balance, coordination and smooth movement.
• cerebrumThe largest part of the brain, responsible for higher functions such as thought, language and voluntary movement.
• certificationA credential earned by meeting education requirements and passing an exam, such as the CCMA.
• chain of custodyWritten documentation of everyone who handles a specimen, such as for a drug test, from collection to testing, so its…
• chain of infectionThe six linked steps needed for an infection to spread: infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of…
• charting by exceptionDocumenting only findings that differ from established normal standards.
• chemical nameA drug name that describes its chemical structure, used mainly by chemists and pharmacists.
• chief complaintA brief statement of the main reason for the visit, usually in the patient's own words.
• child abusePhysical, emotional or sexual harm or neglect of a child.
• cholesterolA fatty substance (sterol) needed for cell membranes and hormones; it is part of the plaque that narrows arteries in…
• chronicDescribes a condition that lasts a long time or keeps coming back.
• civil lawLaw dealing with the rights and relationships between people, such as torts.
• claimA request to a health plan for payment for services provided.
• classical conditioningLearning in which a neutral stimulus becomes linked with one that naturally causes a response.
• clean-catch midstream specimenA urine sample collected after cleansing, by starting to urinate into the toilet and then catching the middle of the…
• closed-ended questionA question answered with yes, no or a short fact.
• clot activatorA tube additive that speeds clotting so serum can be separated; it can interfere with coagulation tests.
• coagulationFormation of a blood clot.
• code of ethicsA set of principles defining the ethical responsibilities of a profession.
• coinsuranceThe patient's share of a covered service, figured as a percentage of the allowed amount.
• confidentialityThe ethical and legal duty to protect a patient's private information from unauthorized disclosure.
• contact precautionsGown and gloves for patients with infections spread by touch, such as MRSA or C. difficile.
• contraindicationA reason a drug or treatment should not be used in a particular patient.
• contralateralOn the opposite side of the body.
• copaymentA fixed dollar amount the patient pays for a covered service, usually at the visit.
• copingThe ways a person manages stress.
• corticosteroidA medicine that reduces inflammation.
• covered entityUnder HIPAA, a health plan, a health care clearinghouse, or a provider who sends health information electronically for…
• criminal lawLaw that defines crimes against society and their punishments.
• crutchesWalking aids used by patients who cannot bear full weight on a leg.
• cultural competenceProviding care that respects and fits patients' cultural values, beliefs and practices.
• cyanosisBluish or dusky color of the skin and mucous membranes, usually from low oxygen.
• decongestantA medicine that gives short-term relief of nasal congestion.
• decontaminationRemoving or destroying bloodborne pathogens on a surface or item so it is safe to handle, use or discard.
• deductibleThe amount the patient owes for covered services each coverage period before the plan starts to pay.
• deepFarther from the surface of the body.
• defendantThe person or party being sued or charged.
• defense mechanismAn unconscious thought or behavior that reduces anxiety in the short term.
• defibrillationDelivering an electric shock to the heart to stop a life-threatening rhythm so a normal rhythm can return.
• dehydrationToo little water in the blood and tissues.
• delegationAssigning a task to someone with the knowledge, skills and competence to perform it.
• deliriumSudden, often reversible confusion, which may be caused by infection, fever or low oxygen.
• deltoidThe triangle-shaped muscle of the upper arm; a common intramuscular injection site for older children and adults.
• delusionA firmly held false belief despite clear evidence against it.
• dementiaChronic, usually irreversible decline in memory and thinking.
• denialRefusing to accept a painful fact or loss; also a stage of grief.
• dependenceA compulsive, chronic need for a substance to feel normal physically or psychologically.
• depolarizationThe electrical change in heart or nerve cells that triggers contraction or a signal.
• dermisThe skin layer beneath the epidermis, containing blood vessels, nerves, glands and hair follicles.
• diabetes mellitusA chronic disease of high blood glucose caused by too little insulin, resistance to insulin, or both.
• diaphoresisHeavy sweating.
• diaphragmThe dome-shaped muscle separating the chest and abdominal cavities; the main muscle of breathing.
• diastoleThe phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle relaxes and the chambers fill.
• diastolic pressureThe bottom blood pressure number: the pressure remaining while the ventricles relax.
• discharge planningPreparing a safe transition for a patient leaving a hospital or facility, back home or to another setting.
• disinfectionRemoving or killing pathogens on objects and surfaces; even high-level disinfection may not destroy all bacterial…
• displacementA defense mechanism of redirecting feelings toward a safer target, such as yelling at staff when angry about a…
• distalFarther from the point where a limb attaches to the trunk.
• distributionTransport of a drug through body fluids to the sites where it acts.
• diureticA drug or substance that increases urine output.
• dorsal cavityThe posterior body cavity that holds the brain and spinal cord.
• double-bookingScheduling two patients in the same time slot with the same provider.
• droplet precautionsA mask for close contact with patients whose infections spread by respiratory droplets, such as influenza or pertussis.
• droplet transmissionSpread of pathogens in respiratory droplets released by coughing, sneezing or talking.
• drug interactionA change in a drug's effect caused by another drug, a food, a supplement or a medical condition.
• duration of actionHow long a drug keeps working.
• dysphoniaHoarseness or difficulty producing the voice.
• dyspneaDifficult or labored breathing; shortness of breath.
• dysrhythmiaAn abnormal heart rhythm; also called arrhythmia.
• dysuriaPainful or uncomfortable urination.
• ecchymosisA bruise: bleeding under the skin that causes discoloration.
• edemaSwelling caused by excess fluid in the tissues.
• EDTAEthylenediaminetetraacetic acid: the anticoagulant in lavender (also pink or pearl) tubes, used for hematology tests…
• elder abuseActions or neglect by a caregiver that harm or risk harm to an older adult.
• electrocardiogramA tracing of the heart's electrical activity recorded from electrodes on the skin.
• electrodeA sensor placed on the skin that picks up the heart's electrical signals for the EKG.
• electrolytesIons dissolved in body fluids that support most body functions and help maintain homeostasis.
• elixirA liquid medication form with sugar, flavoring and alcohol.
• embolusMaterial such as a clot, fat or air bubble that travels in the blood and blocks a vessel.
• emesisVomiting: forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth.
• empathyUnderstanding and sharing another person's feelings from their point of view.
• endemicA disease constantly present in a particular geographic area.
• endocrine glandA gland that releases hormones directly into the blood, without ducts.
• engineering controlsDevices that isolate or remove a bloodborne pathogen hazard, such as sharps containers and safety-engineered needles.
• enteralA route through the digestive tract, such as by mouth or feeding tube.
• enteral nutritionNutrition given directly into the digestive tract through a tube.
• epidemicMore cases of a disease in a community or region than normally expected.
• epidermisThe outermost layer of the skin.
• epistaxisNosebleed; bleeding from the nose.
• erythemaRedness of the skin caused by increased blood flow.
• erythrocyteRed blood cell; carries oxygen using hemoglobin.
• esophagusThe muscular tube that carries food from the pharynx to the stomach.
• ethical dilemmaA situation requiring a choice between options that are equally good, equally bad or uncertain in outcome.
• ethicsMoral principles that guide behavior and help decide what is right and wrong.
• etiologyThe cause or origin of a disease.
• evacuated tubeA blood collection tube with a premeasured vacuum that fills automatically when attached to a needle and tube holder.
• excretionRemoval of a drug from the body, mainly through the kidneys.
• exposure control planAn employer's written OSHA plan to eliminate or minimize employee exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
• exposure incidentContact of an eye, mouth, other mucous membrane, nonintact skin or parenteral route with blood or other potentially…
• extensionStraightening a joint so the angle between the bones increases.
• false imprisonmentRestraining a person or confining them to an area without legal justification or consent.
• fasting blood glucoseA blood glucose test done after an overnight fast.
• fasting specimenA sample drawn after the patient has not eaten for a set time, required for some tests such as glucose and cholesterol.
• fat-soluble vitaminsVitamins A, D, E and K, which dissolve in fat.
• febrileHaving a fever.
• feedbackThe receiver's response to a message, which shows whether it was understood.
• felonyA serious crime, generally punishable by more than one year in prison.
• fidelityThe ethical principle of faithfulness and keeping commitments to patients.
• first morning voidThe first urine passed after waking; it is more concentrated and used for some tests.
• first-pass effectMetabolism of an oral drug before it reaches its site of action, which reduces the amount of active drug.
• flexionBending a joint so the angle between the bones decreases.
• fomiteAn object or surface that can carry pathogens from one person to another.
• formed elementsThe cellular parts of blood: red cells, white cells and platelets.
• formularyThe list of drugs a plan covers, often grouped into cost tiers.
• four Ds of negligenceThe elements a patient must prove for malpractice: duty, dereliction (breach) of duty, direct cause, and damages.
• Fowler's positionLying on the back with the head of the bed or table raised; high Fowler's is sitting upright at about 90 degrees.
• fraudIntentional deception of a person or group for personal gain.
• frontal planeA vertical plane that divides the body into front (anterior) and back (posterior) parts; also called the coronal plane.
• fungusAn organism from the kingdom Fungi; some fungi cause infections.
• gait beltA strap placed around the patient's waist so staff can safely assist walking and transfers.
• gaugeThe diameter of a needle's opening; the higher the gauge number, the smaller the needle.
• generic nameThe official, nonproprietary name of a drug, such as ibuprofen.
• glutenA protein in wheat, barley and rye.
• glycolytic inhibitorA tube additive, sodium fluoride in gray-top tubes, that stops cells from using up glucose in the sample.
• Good Samaritan lawA law that protects health care professionals who give reasonable, prudent emergency care from civil liability.
• goutA form of arthritis with sudden, severe joint pain, swelling and redness, often in the big toe, caused by uric acid…
• griefThe emotional response to a loss.
• grievanceA complaint made to a health insurer or plan.
• half-lifeThe time it takes for the drug level in the blood to drop by half.
• hallucinationSeeing, hearing, smelling, tasting or feeling something that is not there.
• health care proxyA legal document naming a person to make medical decisions if the patient cannot; also the person named.
• health literacyA person's ability to find, understand and use health information to make decisions.
• healthcare-associated infectionAn infection a patient acquires while receiving health care.
• heart blockAn interruption in the heart's normal electrical conduction pathway, such as an AV block.
• heart failureA condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
• hematocritThe percentage of blood volume made up of red blood cells.
• hematomaA collection of blood under the skin, causing swelling and a bruise; a common venipuncture complication.
• hematuriaBlood in the urine.
• hemoglobinThe iron-containing protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
• hemolysisRupture of red blood cells, which releases their contents and can invalidate test results.
• hemoptysisCoughing up blood.
• hemostasisThe body's process for stopping bleeding.
• heparinAn anticoagulant; in green-top tubes it is used for plasma chemistry tests. It is also given as a blood-thinning drug.
• hepatitisInflammation of the liver, often caused by a virus.
• herd immunityProtection of a community when enough people are immune to a disease to limit its spread.
• hierarchy of needsMaslow's five levels of human needs: physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.
• Holter monitorA portable EKG recorder worn during normal activity, usually for 24 to 48 hours (Merck: 24 hours to 14 days).
• homeostasisThe body's ability to keep a stable internal environment, such as temperature and fluid balance.
• hormoneA chemical messenger released into the blood that affects target cells elsewhere in the body.
• hospiceComfort and support care for people in the last stages of a terminal illness and their families.
• hyperglycemiaAbnormally high blood glucose.
• hypertensionPersistently high blood pressure. Stage cutoffs follow the current AHA/ACC guideline (see the blood pressure cheat…
• hyperthermiaDangerously high core body temperature.
• hypodermisThe fatty connective tissue layer beneath the dermis; also called the subcutaneous layer.
• hypoglycemiaAbnormally low blood glucose.
• hypotensionLow blood pressure.
• hypothermiaAbnormally low core body temperature.
• immunizationDeveloping protection against a disease, usually through vaccination.
• implied consentConsent presumed from the situation, as in an emergency when the patient cannot agree.
• incisionA clean surgical cut in the skin.
• incubation periodThe time between entry of a pathogen into the body and the first symptoms.
• indicationThe reason a drug is prescribed.
• infectionInvasion and multiplication of harmful microorganisms in the body, causing disease.
• inferiorBelow or lower than another part; also called caudal.
• inflammationThe body's protective response to injury or infection, marked by heat, redness, pain and swelling.
• informed consentA patient's voluntary agreement to a treatment after being told its purpose, risks, benefits and alternatives.
• inspectionVisual examination of the body.
• insulinA pancreatic hormone that helps cells take in glucose, lowering blood glucose.
• integrated delivery systemA network of providers and agencies that work together to care for people in a community.
• intentional tortA wrongful act the person knew, or should have known, was wrong, such as assault, battery or false imprisonment.
• ipsilateralOn the same side of the body.
• isoelectric lineThe flat baseline on an EKG when no electrical activity is recorded.
• jaundiceYellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes from excess bilirubin in the blood.
• just cultureAn approach that encourages open reporting of errors and fixes system causes while keeping fair accountability.
• justiceThe ethical principle of treating patients fairly and equitably.
• kidneyOne of two bean-shaped organs beside the spine that filter blood and produce urine.
• Korotkoff soundsThe tapping sounds heard through the stethoscope while the cuff deflates; the first sound is the systolic reading and…
• lacerationA deep cut or tear in the skin.
• lancetA small, sharp device used to puncture the skin for a capillary blood sample.
• large intestineThe final part of the digestive tract, made up of the cecum and colon; it is responsible for bowel elimination.
• larynxThe voice box, between the pharynx and trachea.
• lateralToward the side of the body, away from the midline.
• laxativeA medicine that promotes bowel movements to relieve constipation.
• leadA view of the heart's electrical activity, recorded as the voltage difference between electrodes; the word may also…
• leading zeroA zero written before a decimal point, as in 0.5 mg. Always use it; a dose written .5 mg can be misread as 5 mg.
• leukocyteWhite blood cell; defends the body against infection and disease.
• libelFalse, damaging statements about a person made in writing.
• ligamentA band of dense connective tissue that connects bone to bone.
• limb leadsThe six frontal-plane views of a 12-lead EKG: leads I, II and III and the augmented leads aVR, aVL and aVF.
• lipemiaExcess fat (lipid) in a blood sample, which can cause erroneous test results.
• lipidA fat or fat-like substance that does not dissolve in water, such as triglycerides and cholesterol.
• lithotomy positionLying on the back with the feet in stirrups, used for pelvic examinations.
• liverThe largest gland in the body; its main digestive job is making bile.
• living willA type of advance directive that lists acceptable medical treatments, especially at the end of life.
• macronutrientA nutrient needed in large amounts for energy: carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
• major depressive disorderA mood disorder with persistent sadness or loss of interest plus other symptoms that interfere with daily life.
• malignantCancerous; able to invade tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
• malpracticeProfessional negligence: a professional's failure to meet the standard of care, causing injury.
• mandated reporterA person required by law to report suspected abuse or neglect of children, older adults or other vulnerable people.
• medialToward the midline of the body.
• median cubital veinThe superficial vein in the antecubital area linking the cephalic and basilic veins; a frequent venipuncture site.
• MedicaidJoint federal and state health insurance for many people with low income; each state sets its own rules.
• medical asepsisClean technique: practices that reduce the number and spread of microorganisms.
• medical homeA primary care practice that provides comprehensive care and coordinates care across other settings.
• medically necessaryServices or supplies needed to prevent, diagnose or treat an illness, injury or condition and that meet accepted…
• MedicareThe federal health insurance program for people 65 or older and some younger people with disabilities or permanent…
• Medicare AdvantageMedicare Part C: an option to receive all Part A and B care through a provider organization, such as an HMO.
• Medicare Part AMedicare hospital insurance.
• Medicare Part BMedicare medical insurance that helps pay for medical services Part A does not cover.
• Medicare Part DMedicare prescription drug coverage.
• metabolismThe sum of all chemical reactions in the body.
• metastasisSpread of cancer cells from the original site to other parts of the body.
• metric systemA decimal measuring system based on units of 10, such as grams, liters and meters.
• micronutrientA nutrient needed in small amounts, such as vitamins and minerals.
• mineralAn inorganic nutrient the body needs to function properly.
• minimum necessaryThe HIPAA standard that only the least amount of PHI needed for a task may be used, disclosed or requested.
• misdemeanorA less serious crime, generally punishable by a fine or less than one year in jail.
• mitral valveThe valve between the left atrium and left ventricle; also called the bicuspid valve.
• murmurAn unusual heart sound heard with a stethoscope, often from a valve or septal defect.
• N95 respiratorA tight-fitting respirator that filters very small airborne particles; it must be fit-tested.
• nauseaAn uneasy feeling in the stomach, often with an urge to vomit.
• negligenceFailure to act as a reasonably careful person in the same position would, causing harm to someone owed a duty.
• nephronThe microscopic functional unit of the kidney that filters blood and forms urine.
• networkThe providers and facilities a health plan has contracted with to provide care.
• neuronA nerve cell that sends electrical and chemical signals.
• neutrophilThe most common white blood cell; it engulfs bacteria at sites of infection.
• no-showA patient who misses a scheduled appointment without canceling.
• nonmaleficenceThe ethical principle of avoiding harm ("do no harm").
• nonverbal communicationCommunicating without words, through facial expression, gestures, posture, eye contact and touch.
• normal sinus rhythmThe normal heart rhythm, started by the sinus (SA) node at a normal rate.
• Notice of Privacy PracticesThe HIPAA notice explaining how a covered entity may use and disclose PHI and the patient's privacy rights.
• obesityBody weight greater than the healthy range for height; in adults, a BMI of 30 or higher.
• objective dataInformation that can be observed or measured, such as vital signs and test results.
• occult bloodBlood that is hidden and not visible to the eye, as in stool.
• occupational exposureReasonably anticipated contact with blood or OPIM that may result from an employee's job duties.
• ointmentA greasy semisolid medication applied to the skin.
• onset of actionThe time from giving a drug until it begins to work.
• open-ended questionA question that invites a detailed answer in the patient's own words, such as "Tell me about your pain."
• operant conditioningLearning in which behavior is shaped by the consequences that follow it, such as rewards.
• opioidA class of strong pain-relieving drugs derived from opium, which comes from the poppy plant.
• order of drawThe CLSI sequence for filling blood tubes so additives do not carry over: blood cultures, light blue citrate, serum…
• organA distinct structure made of two or more tissue types that performs a specific job.
• organ systemA group of organs working together to carry out a major body function.
• orthopneaDifficulty breathing when lying flat, eased by sitting upright.
• orthostatic hypotensionA drop in blood pressure when the patient moves from lying or sitting to standing, which can cause dizziness.
• osteoarthritisDegenerative joint disease from breakdown of joint cartilage.
• osteoporosisLoss of bone mass that makes bones weak and likely to break.
• otalgiaEar pain (earache).
• out-of-pocket limitThe most a patient must pay for covered services in a plan year; after that the plan pays 100 percent.
• P waveThe first wave of the EKG cycle, showing atrial depolarization.
• painAn unpleasant sensation that usually signals injury or illness.
• palliative careSpecialized medical and nursing care that relieves symptoms and suffering for people with serious, life-limiting…
• palpationExamining by touch with the fingers or hands.
• pancreasAn organ behind the stomach that secretes digestive juice and hormones that regulate blood glucose, such as insulin.
• panic attackA sudden episode of intense fear with physical symptoms such as chest pain, sweating, trembling and a racing heart.
• parenteralA route that bypasses the digestive tract, such as an injection.
• passive immunityImmunity from antibodies received from another source, such as an injection of antibodies.
• pathogenA microorganism that causes disease.
• patient portalA secure online platform that gives patients 24-hour access to their personal health information.
• patient-centered careCare in which the patient is an equal partner and their preferences and values guide decisions.
• percussionTapping the body surface and listening to the sound produced to assess underlying structures.
• petechiaeTiny, round, pinpoint spots on the skin caused by bleeding under the skin.
• pharmacodynamicsWhat a drug does to the body: how it acts on receptors and organs to produce effects.
• pharmacokineticsWhat the body does to a drug: absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion.
• pharmacologyThe study of drugs and their effects on the body.
• pharynxThe throat: a muscular tube connecting the nose and mouth to the larynx and esophagus.
• phlebotomyThe practice of drawing blood from a vein, usually for laboratory testing.
• phobiaAn excessive, irrational fear of a specific object or situation.
• physiologyThe study of how the body and its parts function.
• picaCraving and eating nonfood substances, such as clay.
• plaintiffThe person who files a lawsuit.
• plasmaThe liquid part of blood, mostly water, that carries blood cells and dissolved substances.
• plateletA cell fragment in blood that helps form clots; also called a thrombocyte.
• pneumoniaInfection and inflammation of the lungs.
• polypharmacyUse of many medications at once, which raises the risk of interactions and side effects.
• portal of entryThe route by which a pathogen enters a new host.
• portal of exitThe route by which a pathogen leaves its reservoir.
• posteriorToward the back of the body; also called dorsal.
• PR intervalThe EKG measurement from the start of the P wave to the start of the QRS complex.
• preauthorizationA plan's advance decision that a service, drug or equipment is medically necessary; also called prior authorization.
• precordial leadsThe six chest leads, V1 to V6, that view the heart in the horizontal plane.
• prefixA word part placed at the beginning of a medical term that changes its meaning, often describing size, number…
• premiumThe amount paid, often monthly, to buy and keep health insurance.
• preventive careRoutine care such as screenings, checkups and counseling to prevent illness.
• primary insuranceThe plan that pays a claim first when a patient has more than one; the secondary plan then considers the remaining…
• primary preventionPrevention that stops a disease or health condition before it starts.
• PRN orderA medication order to give a drug only as needed, within the ordered limits.
• problem-oriented medical recordA record organized around the patient's problems, often with SOAP notes.
• projectionA defense mechanism of attributing one's own unacceptable feelings or impulses to someone else.
• proneLying on the abdomen, face down.
• proteinA macronutrient made of many amino acids linked together.
• protozoaSingle-celled organisms, some of which cause parasitic infections.
• proximalCloser to the point where a limb attaches to the trunk.
• pruritusItching.
• pulseThe rhythmic expansion of an artery with each heartbeat, used to count heart rate.
• pulse oximeterA device that measures the oxygen saturation of the blood.
• pulse pressureThe difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressures.
• Purkinje fibersConduction fibers that spread the impulse through the ventricular walls so the ventricles contract.
• pyrosisHeartburn: a burning feeling behind the breastbone, often from stomach acid.
• QRS complexThe EKG waveform showing ventricular depolarization.
• quality controlRunning control materials of known value with patient tests to confirm the test system is working correctly.
• radial pulseThe pulse felt at the wrist on the thumb side; the most common site for routine pulse checks.
• rapportA relationship of trust and understanding between the patient and caregiver.
• rationalizationA defense mechanism of making excuses to justify behavior.
• reaction formationA defense mechanism of acting the opposite of one's true feelings.
• reference rangeThe typical values expected for a laboratory test.
• referralA written order from the primary care provider for the patient to see a specialist or get certain services.
• regressionA defense mechanism of returning to more childlike behavior under stress.
• regulated wasteLiquid or semi-liquid blood or OPIM, items caked or dripping with them, and contaminated sharps, all requiring special…
• rehabilitationCare that helps a person regain skills and function lost to illness or injury.
• repolarizationThe return of a cell to its resting electrical state after depolarization.
• repressionA defense mechanism that keeps painful thoughts and memories out of awareness.
• res ipsa loquitur"The thing speaks for itself": a legal doctrine for a breach of duty so obvious that negligence is presumed.
• reservoirThe place where a pathogen lives and multiplies, such as a person, animal or surface.
• resilienceThe ability to adapt and recover after difficult experiences.
• respirationOne breath: an inhalation and an exhalation; respirations are counted per minute.
• respondeat superiorThe legal rule that an employer is responsible for employees' negligent acts done within the scope of their job.
• rhythm stripA printed EKG tracing from one lead, often six seconds long, used to assess heart rhythm.
• risk managementStrategies to prevent errors and reduce legal liability.
• rotationTurning of a bone around its own long axis.
• SA nodeSinoatrial node: the heart's natural pacemaker in the right atrium, where each normal beat starts.
• sagittal planeA vertical plane that divides the body into right and left parts.
• sanitizationRemoving visible soil and debris from objects; cleaning must come before high-level disinfection or sterilization.
• SBARA structured handoff tool: Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation.
• schizophreniaA severe mental illness with disturbed thinking, perception and behavior.
• scope of practiceThe defined limits within which a health care worker is authorized to work, make decisions and provide services.
• screeningTests or exams to detect a disease early, usually in people without symptoms.
• secondary preventionFinding and treating a disease in its early stages to prevent complications and progression.
• seizureA sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can cause changes in movement, behavior or awareness.
• self-esteemA person's overall sense of self-worth.
• semi-Fowler's positionLying on the back with the head raised about 30 to 45 degrees.
• sentinel eventAn unexpected event involving death or serious physical or psychological injury, or the risk of it.
• sepsisA life-threatening, body-wide response to infection that can damage organs.
• serumThe liquid left after blood clots; plasma without clotting factors.
• serum separator tubeA gold or red-gray (tiger top) tube with clot activator and a gel that separates serum from cells during centrifugation.
• shared decision-makingThe patient and provider make health care decisions together, with the patient stating their needs and limits.
• sharpsObjects that can puncture or cut skin, such as needles, lancets, scalpels and broken glass.
• shockA dangerous state in which blood flow is too low to meet the body's needs.
• side effectA predictable, usually unwanted effect of a drug besides the intended one.
• signObjective evidence of disease that can be seen or measured, such as a fever reading or rash.
• Sims' positionLying on the side, partly turned toward prone (semiprone).
• sinus bradycardiaA regular rhythm from the SA node at fewer than 60 beats per minute.
• sinus tachycardiaA regular rhythm from the SA node at more than 100 beats per minute.
• skilled nursing careCare performed or supervised by licensed nurses, at home or in a nursing home.
• slanderFalse, damaging statements about a person spoken aloud.
• small intestineThe long part of the digestive tract between the stomach and large intestine, where most digestion and absorption occur.
• Snellen chartA chart of letters in decreasing size, read from 20 feet, used to test distance visual acuity.
• SOAP noteA documentation format: Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan.
• social determinants of healthConditions where people are born, live, learn, work and age that affect health outcomes.
• sodium citrateThe anticoagulant in light blue tubes, used for coagulation tests such as PT/INR; the tube must be filled to the line.
• somatic tremorEKG artifact from muscle movement or shivering that makes the baseline jittery.
• source-oriented recordA medical record organized into sections by the source (discipline) that provided the information.
• specialistA provider who focuses on a specific area of medicine or group of patients.
• specific gravityA measure of urine concentration compared with water.
• sphygmomanometerA blood pressure cuff with a gauge used to measure blood pressure.
• sputumMucus and secretions coughed up from the lungs.
• ST segmentThe EKG section between the QRS complex and the T wave; elevation can signal an acute heart attack and depression can…
• standard precautionsInfection prevention practices used with every patient, including hand hygiene, PPE based on expected exposure, and…
• standing orderA standardized order that may be carried out under defined circumstances without a new individual order.
• stat orderA medication order to be carried out immediately.
• statute of limitationsThe legal time limit for filing a lawsuit, such as for malpractice; it varies by state.
• sterilizationA process that destroys all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, on an object.
• stethoscopeAn instrument that amplifies body sounds such as the heartbeat, lungs and bowel.
• stressThe body's physical and emotional response to a demand or threat (stressor).
• stress testA test of the heart during exercise or with medicine that makes the heart work harder, often with EKG monitoring.
• strokeBrain injury caused by blocked or bleeding blood vessels in the brain.
• stroke volumeThe amount of blood the left ventricle pumps with each beat.
• subjective dataInformation the patient or family reports, such as symptoms and feelings.
• sublimationA defense mechanism that channels unacceptable urges into acceptable activities.
• sublingualPlaced under the tongue to dissolve.
• subpoena duces tecumA court order to produce documents or records, such as a medical record.
• suffixA word part placed at the end of a medical term, often naming a procedure, condition or disease.
• suicidal ideationThinking about suicide, with or without the intention to act on it.
• superficialCloser to the surface of the body.
• superiorAbove or higher than another part; also called cranial.
• supineLying flat on the back, face up.
• suppositoryA solid medication form that melts inside a body cavity, such as the rectum, and is absorbed.
• surgical asepsisSterile technique: practices that keep an area completely free of microorganisms during invasive procedures.
• susceptible hostA person at risk of becoming infected.
• symptomA subjective change the patient reports, such as pain or nausea.
• syncopeFainting: a brief loss of consciousness caused by a drop in blood flow to the brain.
• systoleThe phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle contracts.
• systolic pressureThe top blood pressure number: the highest pressure, during ventricular contraction.
• T waveThe EKG wave showing ventricular repolarization (recovery).
• tabletA solid dose made of compressed powder.
• tachycardiaHeart rate faster than 100 beats per minute in an adult.
• tachypneaBreathing faster than normal; in adults, more than 20 breaths per minute.
• teach-back methodAsking the patient to explain or show, in their own words, what they were taught, to confirm understanding.
• telehealthUsing telecommunications technology, such as video visits, to provide health care remotely.
• telemedicineRemote diagnosis and treatment of patients using telecommunications technology.
• tendonDense connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone.
• teratogenAnything, such as a drug, chemical, alcohol or infection, that can cause birth defects.
• tertiary preventionManaging an existing disease to prevent complications, disability or death.
• therapeutic communicationPurposeful techniques that build a helping relationship and support the patient's well-being.
• thoracic cavityThe chest cavity, holding the heart, lungs, esophagus and trachea.
• thrombusA blood clot that forms inside an intact blood vessel.
• tinnitusRinging, buzzing or hissing sounds in the ears.
• tissueA group of similar cells working together to perform a specific function.
• toleranceA reduced response to a drug over time, so a larger dose is needed for the same effect.
• tortA wrongful act or omission that harms someone and lets them sue for damages in civil court.
• tourniquetA band tied around the arm to slow venous blood flow so veins are easier to find and puncture.
• toxicityThe degree to which a drug can poison or harm the body.
• tracheaThe windpipe: a tube of cartilage rings that carries air from the larynx to the bronchi.
• trailing zeroA zero after a decimal point in a dose, as in 5.0 mg. On the Do Not Use list: it can be read as 50 mg. Write 5 mg.
• transdermalDelivery of a drug through the skin, usually by a patch.
• transmission-based precautionsExtra precautions (contact, droplet or airborne) added to standard precautions for patients with certain infections.
• transverse planeA horizontal plane that divides the body into upper (superior) and lower (inferior) parts.
• Trendelenburg positionLying supine with the head lower than the feet.
• triageSorting patients by the urgency of their symptoms so the most serious are seen first.
• tricuspid valveThe valve between the right atrium and right ventricle.
• triglyceridesFats (lipids) made of three fatty acid chains attached to glycerol.
• tympanic thermometerA thermometer that reads temperature in the ear canal with infrared.
• UCRUsual, customary and reasonable: the amount paid for a service in an area based on what providers there usually charge.
• unbundlingBilling the parts of a service separately instead of using the single code that covers the whole service.
• unintentional tortHarm caused without intending it, such as negligence.
• universal precautionsThe OSHA approach of treating all human blood and certain body fluids as if known to be infectious.
• upcodingBilling a higher level of service than was provided or documented; a form of fraud.
• ureterOne of two tubes carrying urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
• urethraThe tube carrying urine from the bladder out of the body.
• urinalysisLaboratory analysis of urine to help diagnose disease; it can include a microscopic examination.
• urticariaHives: raised, itchy, red or skin-colored welts.
• vaccinationGiving a vaccine to stimulate protection against a specific disease.
• vasovagal reactionA reaction with pallor, sweating, dizziness, nausea and sometimes fainting, which can occur during blood collection.
• vastus lateralisThe muscle on the outer (anterolateral) thigh; an intramuscular injection site and the preferred site for infants and…
• vector transmissionSpread of a pathogen by a living carrier such as a mosquito or tick.
• veinA blood vessel that carries blood toward the heart.
• venipuncturePuncturing a vein with a needle to collect blood.
• ventral cavityThe large anterior body cavity containing the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities.
• ventricleOne of the two lower, pumping chambers of the heart.
• ventricular fibrillationA chaotic, life-threatening rhythm in which the ventricles quiver and blood is not pumped; it needs immediate CPR and…
• ventricular tachycardiaA fast, life-threatening rhythm from the ventricles with wide QRS complexes.
• ventrogluteal siteAn intramuscular injection site on the side of the hip, located using the greater trochanter and iliac crest as…
• veracityThe ethical principle of honesty and truthfulness.
• verbal communicationCommunicating with spoken or written words.
• vertigoA spinning type of dizziness; the person feels they or the room are moving.
• virusA tiny infectious agent of genetic material in a protein coat; it can multiply only inside host cells.
• visual acuitySharpness of vision.
• vital signsMeasurements of essential body functions: temperature, pulse (heart rate), respiration (breathing rate) and blood…
• vitaminAn organic micronutrient the body needs for normal growth and metabolism.
• waived testA simple test that CLIA allows with a certificate of waiver because it is cleared for home use, very simple and…
• walkerA four-legged frame that supports a person while walking or transferring.
• water-soluble vitaminsThe B vitamins and vitamin C, which dissolve in water.
• whistleblowerA person who reports misconduct, such as fraud, to authorities.
• withdrawalPhysical and mental symptoms when someone suddenly stops or cuts down an addictive substance.
• word rootThe core of a medical term, usually naming a body part.
• work practice controlsChanges in how a task is done that reduce exposure risk, such as banning two-handed needle recapping.
• Z-track methodAn intramuscular technique: pull the skin down or to the side before injecting, then release it, so medication cannot…