Chapter 23 - Abdominal, Hematologic, Gynecologic, Genitourinary, and Renal Emergencies Flashcards
abdominal aorta
a portion of the descending aorta that extends from the thoracic portion of the aorta to the distal point where the aorta divides into the iliac arteries. Arteries branching from the abdominal aorta supply the abdominal organs.
abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)
a weakened, ballooned, and enlarged area of the wall of the abdominal aorta.
abdominal cavity
the space located below the diaphragm that extends to the top of the pelvis.
acute abdomen
a sharp, severe abdominal pain with rapid onset. Acute abdomen can have a number of causes. Also called acute abdominal distress.
appendicitis
inflammation of the appendix.
cholecystitis
inflammation of the gallbladder.
dialysate
a special fluid used for dialysis.
dialysis
an artificial process used to remove water and waste substances from the blood when the kidneys fail to function properly.
dysmenorrhea
severe pain or cramps during menstruation.
endometriosis
the condition in which endometrial tissue grown outside of the uterus.
endometritis
inflammation of the endometrium.
esophageal varices
bulging, engorgement, or weakening of the blood vessels in the lining of the lower part of the esophagus.
gastroenteritis
inflammation of the stomach and small intestine.
genitourinary system
male organ system that includes both the reproductive and the urinary structures.
guarded position
a position generally assumed by patients with acute abdominal pain with knees drawn up and hands clenched over the abdomen.
gynecology
branch of medicine that studies health of the female patient and her reproductive system.
hematemesis
vomiting of blood.
hematochezia
bright red blood in the stool.
hematuria
blood in the urine.
hernia
protrusion or thrusting forward of a portion of the intestine through an opening or weakness in the abdominal wall.
intestinal obstruction
blockage that interrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents.
involuntary guarding
abdominal wall muscle contraction caused by inflammation or the peritoneum that the patient cannot control. Also called rigidity.
Markle test
a test for the presence of peritonitis in which the patent stands on his toes, then drops to his heals, or in which the heels are struck together or struck on the bottom. The jarring of the torso will elicit pain when the peritoneal linings are inflamed. Also called the heel drop test.
melena
dark tarry stools containing decomposing blood normally from the upper gastrointestinal system.
