Ch.15 Diagnostic Procedures Flashcards
albumin/o
Albumin, protein
calc/i
Calcium, lime, the heel
-centesis
A surgical puncture to remove fluid
creatin/o
Creatinine.
glycos/o
Glucose, sugar.
-graphy
The process of producing a picture or record
hemat/o
Blood, relating to the blood.
lapar/o
Abdomen, abdominal wall
-otomy
Cutting, surgical incision.
phleb/o
Vein.
radi/o
Radiation, x-rays.
-scope
Instrument for visual examination
-scopy
Visual examination.
son/o
Sound.
-uria
Urine, urination.
acetaminophen
An analgesic that reduces pain and fever, but does not relieve inflammation
acupuncture
traditional Chinese medical practice using thin needles inserted into specific points of the body
albuminuria
presence of the protein albumin in the urine; a sign of impaired kidney function
analgesic
class of drugs that relieves pain without affecting consciousness
antipyretic
Medication administered to prevent or reduce fever
arthrocentesis
surgical puncture of a joint space to remove synovial fluid for analysis
auscultation
Listening through a stethoscope for sounds within the body
bacteriuria
The presence of bacteria in the urine
bruit
abnormal sound heard during auscultation of an artery
calciuria
abnormal presence of calcium in the urine
compliance
patient’s consistency and accuracy in following the regimen prescribed by a physician or other health care professional
computed tomography
thin fan-shaped x-ray beam that rotates around the patient to produce multiple cross-sectional views of the body
contraindication
factor in a patient’s condition that makes the use of a medication or specific treatment dangerous or ill advised
creatinuria
increased concentration of creatinine in the urine
echocardiography
ultrasonic diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the structures and motion of the heart.
endoscope
small flexible tube with a light and a lens on the end
fluoroscopy
imaging technique used to visualize body parts in motion by projecting x-ray images on a luminous fluorescent screen
glycosuria
presence of glucose in the urine.
hematocrit
percentage, by volume, of a blood sample occupied by red blood cells
hematuria
presence of blood in the urine.
hyperthermia
extremely high fever
hypothermia
abnormally low body temperature
idiosyncratic reaction
unexpected reaction to a drug that is peculiar to an individual.
interventional radiology
use of radiographic imaging to guide a procedure such as a biopsy
intradermal injection
administration of medication by injection into the middle layers of the skin
intramuscular injection
administration of medication by injection directly into muscle tissue
intravenous injection
administration of medication by injection directly into a vein
ketonuria
presence of ketones in the urine
laparoscopy
visual examination of the interior of the abdomen with the use of a laparoscope
lithotomy position
examination position in which the patient is lying on the back with the feet and legs raised and supported in stirrups
magnetic resonance imaging
imaging technique that uses a combination of radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create signals that are sent to a computer and converted into images of any plane through the body; also known as MRI
ophthalmoscope
instrument used to examine the interior of the eye
otoscope
instrument used to visually examine the external ear canal and tympanic membrane
palliative
substance that eases the pain or severity of the symptoms of a disease but does not cure it
parenteral
Taken into the body, or administered, in a manner other than through the digestive tract
percussion
diagnostic procedure to determine the density of a body area that uses the sound produced by tapping the surface with the fingers
perfusion
flow of blood through an organ
pericardiocentesis
surgical puncture to draw fluid from the pericardial sac for the purpose of removing fluid
phlebotomy
puncture of a vein for the purpose of drawing blood; also known as venipuncture
placebo
inactive substance that is given only for its suggestive effects
positron emission tomography
imaging technique that combines tomography with radionuclide tracers to produce enhanced images of selected body organs or areas
prone position
examination position in which the patient is lying on the abdomen with the face down
proteinuria
presence of an abnormal amount of protein in the urine
pyuria
presence of pus in the urine
radiolucent
substance that allows x-rays to pass through and appears black or dark gray on the resulting film
radiopaque
substance that does not allow x-rays to pass through and appears white or light gray on the resulting film
rales
Abnormal crackle-like lung sounds heard through a stethoscope during inspiration
recumbent
Any position in which the patient is lying down. This can be on the back, front, or side
rhonchi
Coarse rattling breath sounds that are somewhat like snoring
Sims’ position
examination position in which the patient is lying on the left side with the right knee and thigh drawn up and the left arm placed along the back
single photon emission computed tomography
type of nuclear imaging test that produces 3D computer-reconstructed images showing perfusion through tissues and organs
speculum
instrument used to enlarge the opening of any canal or cavity to facilitate inspection of its interior
sphygmomanometer
instrument used to measure blood pressure
stethoscope
instrument used to listen to sounds within the body
stridor
abnormal, high-pitched, musical breathing sound caused by a blockage in the throat or in the larynx (voice box)
subcutaneous injection
administration of medication by injection into the fatty layer just below the skin
transdermal
Medication administered from a patch that is applied to unbroken skin
transesophageal echocardiography
ultrasonic imaging technique that is performed from inside the esophagus to evaluate heart structures
ultrasonography
imaging of deep body structures by recording the echoes of sound wave pulses that are above the range of human hearing; also known as ultrasound and diagnostic ultrasound
urinalysis
examination of the physical and chemical properties of urine to determine the presence of abnormal elements
Stat
Immediately
profile
means tests that are frequently performed as a group on automated multi-channel laboratory testing equipment
phlebotomist
a medical professional who is trained to draw blood from patients for various laboratory tests and other procedures
Phlebotomy
also known as venipuncture, is the puncture of a vein for the purpose of drawing blood
arterial stick
the puncture of an artery, usually on the inside of the wrist, to obtain arterial blood. Arterial blood differs from venous blood mostly in the concentration of dissolved gases it contains
capillary puncture
the technique used when only a small amount of blood is needed as a specimen for a blood test. Named for where it is performed, a capillary puncture is usually known as a finger, heel, or earlobe stick
complete blood cell count CBC
a series of tests performed as a group to evaluate several blood conditions. Blood disorders are discussed in
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
also known as a sed rate, is a test based on the speed with which the red blood cells separate from the plasma and fall to the bottom of a specialized test tube. An elevated sed rate indicates the presence of inflammation in the body
hematocrit
describes the percentage, by volume, of a blood sample occupied by red cells ( hemat/o means blood, and -crit means to separate). This test is used to diagnose abnormal states of hydration (fluid levels in the body), polycythemia (excess red blood cells), and anemia
platelet count
measures the number of platelets in a specified amount of blood and is a screening test to evaluate platelet function. It is also used to monitor changes in the blood associated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These changes include thrombocytosis (an abnormal increase in the number of platelets) and thrombocytopenia (an abnormal decrease in the number of platelets).
red blood cell count (RBC)
a determination of the number of erythrocytes in the blood. A depressed count can indicate anemia or an acute hemorrhage
total hemoglobin test (Hb)
usually part of a complete blood count ( hem/o means blood, and -globin means protein). Elevated Hb levels indicate a higher than normal hemoglobin concentration in the plasma due to polycythemia or dehydration. Low Hb indicates lower than normal hemoglobin concentration due to anemia, recent hemorrhage, or fluid retention
white blood cell count (WBC)
a determination of the number of leukocytes in the blood. An elevated count can be an indication of infection or inflammation
white blood cell differential count
tests to see what percentage of the total white blood cell count is composed of each of the five types of leukocytes. This provides information about the patient’s immune system, detects certain types of leukemia, and determines the severity of infection
basic metabolic panel (BMP, or Profile 8)
is a group of eight specific blood tests that provide important information about the current status of the patient’s kidneys, electrolyte balance, blood sugar, and calcium levels. Significant changes in these test results can indicate acute problems such as kidney failure, diabetes-related complications, or respiratory problems
blood urea nitrogen test (BUN)
measures the amount of nitrogen in the blood due to the waste product urea. This test is performed to obtain an indication of kidney function. Urea (you-REE-ah) is the major end product of protein metabolism found in urine and blood
Crossmatch tests
are performed to determine the compatibility of blood donor and the recipient before a blood transfusion. Agglutination is a positive reaction that indicates the donor unit is not a suitable match. Agglutination is the clumping together of red blood cells
C-reactive protein test (CRP)
is performed to identify high levels of inflammation within the body. The information provided by this test is obtained by the presence of the C-reactive protein, which is produced by the liver only during episodes of acute inflammation. Although this test does not identify the specific cause of the inflammation, an elevated level can indicate a heart attack, coronary artery disease, or an autoimmune disorder
lipid panel
also called a lipid profile, measures the amounts of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides in a blood sample
Prothrombin time
also known as pro time, is a coagulation test used to diagnose conditions associated with abnormalities of clotting time and to monitor anticoagulant therapy. A longer prothrombin time can be caused by serious liver disease, bleeding disorders, blood-thinning medicines, or a lack of vitamin K
serum bilirubin test
measures the ability of the liver to take up, process, and secrete bilirubin into the bile. This test is useful in determining whether a patient has liver disease or a blocked bile duct
thyroid-stimulating hormone assay
measures circulating blood levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) that can indicate abnormal thyroid activity
arterial blood gas analysis
measures the pH, oxygen, and carbon dioxide levels of arterial blood. This test is used to evaluate lung and kidney function and overall metabolism
Urinalysis
the examination of the physical and chemical properties of urine to determine the presence of abnormal elements
Routine urinalysis
performed to screen for urinary and systemic disorders. This test uses a dipstick. This is a plastic strip impregnated with chemicals that react with substances in the urine and change color when abnormalities are present
Microscopic examination
the specimen is performed when more detailed testing of the specimen is necessary, for example to identify casts. Casts are fibrous or protein materials, such as pus and fats, that are thrown off into the urine in kidney disease. (Note: The term cast is also used to describe a rigid dressing, traditionally made of gauze and plaster, used to immobilize a bone that has been fractured.
average normal pH range of urine
from 4.5 to 8.0.
Acidosis
excessive acid in the body fluids.
alkalosis
excessive alkalinity in body fluids . pH value above 7 indicates alkaline urine and can indicate conditions such as a urinary tract infection
Low specific gravity
is characteristic of diabetes insipidus
Albuminuria
the presence of the protein albumin in the urine. High test levels are a sign of impaired kidney function
Bacteriuria
the presence of bacteria in the urine
Calciuria
the presence of calcium in the urine ( calci means calcium, and -uria means urine). Abnormally high levels can be diagnostic for hyperparathyroidism as described in Chapter 13. Lower-than-normal levels can indicate osteomalacia
Creatinuria
an increased concentration of creatinine in the urine ( creatin means creatinine, and -uria means urine). Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism that is normally removed by the kidneys. The presence of excess creatinine is an indication of increased muscle breakdown or a disruption of kidney function
drug-screening urine test
a rapid method of identifying the presence in the body of one or more drugs of abuse such as cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. These tests are also used to detect the use of performance-enhancing drugs by athletes
Hematuria
is the presence of blood in the urine ( hemat means blood, and -uria means urine). This condition can be caused by kidney stones, infection, kidney damage, or bladder cancer
Ketonuria
the presence of ketones in the urine
Proteinuria
the presence of an abnormal amount of protein in the urine
Pyuria
the presence of pus in the urine ( py means pus, and -uria means urine). When pus is present, the urine is turbid in appearance. Turbid means having a cloudy or smoky appearance
urine culture and sensitivity tests,
also known as a urine C and S, is a laboratory test that is used to identify the cause of a urinary tract infection and to determine which antibiotic would be the most effective treatment
Endoscopy
the visual examination of the interior of a body cavity ( endo means within, and -scopy means visual examination). These procedures are usually named for the organs involved
Endoscopic surgery
a surgical procedure that is performed through very small incisions with the use of an endoscope and specialized instruments. These procedures are named for the body parts involved, for example arthroscopic surgery
endoscope
a small, flexible tube with a light and a lens on the end ( endo means within and -scope means an instrument for visual examination). These fiber-optic instruments are named for the body parts they are designed to examine. For example, a hysteroscope is used to examine the interior of the uterus, while a laparoscope is used to examine the interior of the abdomen
Laparoscopy
the visual examination of the interior of the abdomen with the use of a laparoscope that is passed through a small incision in the abdominal wall
Centesis
a surgical puncture to remove excess fluid or to remove fluid for diagnostic purposes
Abdominocentesis
the surgical puncture of the abdominal cavity to remove fluid
Arthrocentesis
a surgical puncture of the joint space to remove synovial fluid for analysis to determine the cause of pain or swelling in a joint
Cardiocentesis
also known as cardiopuncture, is the puncture of a chamber of the heart for diagnosis or therapy
Pericardiocentesis
the puncture of the pericardial sac for the purpose of removing fluid
Radiography
Uses x-radiation (x-rays) passing through the patient to expose a film or create a digital image that shows the body in profile. In the resulting film, hard tissues are light, soft tissues are shades of gray, and air is black
Computed tomography (CT)
Uses x-radiation (x-rays) with computer assistance to produce multiple cross-sectional views of the body. Hard tissues are light, and soft tissues appear as shades of gray.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Uses a combination of radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce images. Hard tissues are dark, and soft tissues appear as shades of gray
contrast medium
administered by swallowing, via an enema, or intravenously to make specific body structures visible. Specialized substances are used depending on the imaging systems and the body parts to be enhanced. These media are either radiopaque or radiolucent
Radiopaque
means that the substance does not allow x-rays to pass through and appears white or light gray on the resulting film. Radiopaque is the opposite of radiolucent
Radiolucent
means that the substance, such as air or nitrogen gas, allows x-rays to pass through and appears black or dark gray on the resulting film. Radiolucent is the opposite of radiopaque
intravenous contrast medium
injected into a vein to make the flow of blood through blood vessels and organs visible
Barium
a radiopaque contrast medium used primarily to visualize the gastrointestinal tract (Figure 15.12). It is administered orally as a barium swallow for an upper GI study. It is administered rectally as a barium enema for a lower GI study. Radiography and fluoroscopy are used to trace the flow of the barium
Conventional radiology
creates an image of hard-tissue internal structures by the exposure of sensitized film to x-radiation ( radi means radiation, and -ology means study of). The resulting film is known as a radiograph or radiogram; however, it is commonly referred to as an x-ray.
ionizing radiation
X-radiation is beneficial in producing diagnostic images and in treating cancer; however, excess exposure to this radiation is dangerous, and the effects are cumulative. Because x-radiation is invisible, has no odor, and cannot be felt, appropriate precautions must always be taken to protect the technician and the patient
Dosimetry
The science of measuring radiation exposure is called dosimetry
Radiopaque hard tissues
such as bone and tooth enamel, appear white or light gray on the radiograph
Radiolucent soft tissues
such as muscles, and skin, appear as shades of gray to black on the radiograph
radiologist
a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders with x-rays and other forms of radiant energy
Interventional radiology
the use of radiographic imaging to guide a procedure such as a biopsy. It is also used to confirm the placement of an inserted object such as a stent or feeding tube
radiographic positioning
describes the placement of the patient’s body and the part of the body that is closest to the x-ray film
radiographic projection
describes the path that the x-ray beam follows through the patient’s body from the entrance to the exit
extraoral radiography
means that the film is placed and exposed outside of the mouth
radiographic projection
describes the path that the x-ray beam follows through the patient’s body from the entrance to the exit
panoramic radiograph
commonly known as a Panorex, shows all of the structures in both dental arches in a single film
Intraoral radiography
means that the film is placed within the mouth and exposed by a camera positioned next to the exterior of the cheek
Tomography
is the use of x-rays or ultrasound to produce a cross-section of the body
computed tomography CT CAT
sometimes referred to as a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan, uses a thin, fan-shaped x-ray beam that rotates around the patient to produce multiple cross-sectional views of the body
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
a combination of radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create signals that are sent to a computer and converted into images of any plane through the body. These images are used to construct images of internal organs and tissues that often do not show up well in radiographs. An MRI is a noninvasive means of examining soft tissues such as those of the heart, blood vessels, brain, spinal cord, joints, muscles, and internal organs
closed MRI
which is the most commonly used type of equipment, produces the most accurate images; however, patients may be uncomfortable because of the loud noise and the feeling of being closed in. In addition, some patients may not fit into the narrow tube of a closed MRI machine
open MRI
designed to be less confining and is more comfortable for some people, especially large patients and those suffering from claustrophobia
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)
also known as magnetic resonance angio, helps locate problems within blood vessels throughout the body
Fluoroscopy
the visualization of body parts in motion by projecting x-ray images on a luminous fluorescent screen
Cineradiography
he recording of the fluoroscopy images ( cine- means relationship to movement, radi/o means radiation, and -graphy means process of recording a picture or record)
Ultrasonography
commonly referred to as ultrasound or diagnostic ultrasound, is imaging of deep body structures by recording the echoes of sound wave pulses that are above the range of human hearing
sonogram
the image created by ultrasonography ( son/o means sound, and -gram means a picture or record). These images are created by a sonographer, who is a technician specifically trained in this technique
Carotid ultrasonography
the use of sound waves to image the carotid artery to detect an obstruction that could cause an ischemic stroke
Echocardiography
an ultrasonic diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the structures and motion of the heart
Echocardiography
an ultrasonic diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the structures and motion of the heart.The resulting record is an echocardiogram. Note: not to be confused with an electrocardiogram (EKG)
Doppler echocardiogram
is performed in the same way as an echocardiogram; however, this procedure measures the speed and direction of the blood flow within the heart
Fetal ultrasound
a noninvasive procedure used to image and evaluate fetal development during pregnancy (Figures 15.18 and 15.19). 3D/4D ultrasound is a technique that uses specialized equipment to create photograph-like images of the developing child.
Transesophageal echocardiography
an ultrasonic imaging technique used to evaluate heart structures. This diagnostic test is performed from inside the esophagus, and because the esophagus is so close to the heart, this technique produces clearer images than those obtained with echocardiography
nuclear medicine
drugs known as radiopharmaceuticals are used for either diagnostic or treatment purposes. Radiopharmaceuticals contain radioactive materials called radioisotopes that produce a powerful form of energy called radiation. They can be inserted into a vein, taken by mouth, or placed inside the body
nuclear medicine technologist
specializes in the preparation and administration of radiopharmaceuticals
Nuclear imaging
he use of radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic purposes. These images document the structure and function of the organ or organs being examined. Unlike x-ray technology, in which the radiation is external, nuclear imaging involves a low dose of radiopharmaceuticals taken internally
radionuclide tracer
also known as a radioactive tracer, which is specific to the body system being examined. The short-lived tracer can be given by mouth or inserted into a vein
nuclear scan
as a scintigram, is a diagnostic procedure that uses nuclear medicine technology to gather information about the structure and function of organs or body systems that cannot be seen on conventional x-rays
bone scan
a nuclear scanning test that identifies new areas of bone growth or breakdown. The results are obtained after a radionuclide tracer is injected into the bloodstream, and the patient then waits while the material travels through the body tissues
thyroid scan
This scan makes use of the thyroid gland’s ability to concentrate certain radioactive isotopes to generate images of it. A thyroid scan provides information about the size, shape, location, and relative activity of different parts of the thyroid gland
Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)
a type of nuclear imaging test that produces 3D computer-reconstructed images showing perfusion through tissues and organs
Perfusion
means the flow of blood through an organ
Positron emission tomography (PET)
also known as PET imaging, combines tomography with radionuclide tracers, usually inserted into a vein, to produce enhanced images of selected body organs or areas
Pharmacology
he study of the nature, uses, and effects of drugs for medical purposes ( pharmac means drug
pharmacist
a licensed specialist who formulates and dispenses prescribed medications
ac
before meals
ad lib
as desired
amt
amount
bid
twice a day
NPO
Nothing by Mouth
pc
after meals
po
by mouth
prn
as needed
qh
ever hour
qid
four times a day
Rx
prescription
Sig
to be labeled accordingly
tid
three times a day
prescription
a medication that can legally be dispensed only by a pharmacist with an order from a licensed professional such as a physician or dentist
over-the-counter
drug, also known as an OTC, is a medication that can be purchased without a prescription
generic drug
usually named for its chemical structure and is not protected by a brand name or trademark. For example, diazepam is the generic name of a drug frequently used as skeletal muscle relaxant, sedative, and anti-anxiety agent
brand-name
drug is sold under the name given the drug by the manufacturer. A brand name is always spelled with a capital letter. For example, Valium ® is a brand name for diazepam
formulary
a list of prescription drugs covered by a specific health care plan. The term originally referred to a book listing ingredients and formulas for making medicines
Physicians’ Desk Reference (PDR)
the most commonly used drug information guide. It is updated annually
addiction
compulsive, uncontrollable dependence on a drug, alcohol, or other substance. It can also be a habit or practice that cannot be stopped without causing severe emotional, mental, or physiologic reactions
Controlled substances
addictive prescription medicines and illegal drugs whose manufacture, possession, and use are regulated by the government
Drug tolerance
when the body has become accustomed to a medication after being on it for a length of time, and higher doses are required to achieve the desired effect
adverse drug reaction (ADR)
also known as a side effect, is an undesirable reaction that accompanies the principal response for which the drug was taken
Compliance
the patient’s consistency and accuracy in following the regimen prescribed by a physician or other health care professional. As used here, regimen means directions or rules
contraindication
a factor in the patient’s condition that makes the use of a medication or specific treatment dangerous or ill advised
drug interaction
the result of drugs reacting with each other, often in ways that are unexpected or potentially harmful. Such interactions can occur when medications are taken along with herbal remedies or when more than one prescription drug is taken at the same time
Synergism
the interaction of two drugs taken together that enhances the effectiveness of both. The term comes from the Greek term for working together
idiosyncratic reaction
an unexpected reaction to a drug that is peculiar to the individual
palliative
a substance that eases the pain or severity of the symptoms of a disease but does not cure it. Palliative care is treatment that focuses on alleviating pain and relieving symptoms rather than curing the disease
paradoxical reaction
the result of medical treatment that yields the opposite of normally expected results. Paradoxical means not being normal or the usual kind
placebo
an inactive substance, such as a sugar pill or liquid, that is administered only for its suggestive effects. In medical research, a placebo is sometimes administered to a control group, while the drug being studied is sometimes administered to the other group
antipyretic
medication administered to prevent or reduce fever ( anti- means against, pyret means fever, and -ic means pertaining to). These medications, such as aspirin and acetaminophen, act by lowering a raised body temperature; however, they do not affect a normal body temperature when a fever is not present
anti-inflammatory
relieves inflammation and pain without affecting consciousness
analgesic
refers to the class of drugs that relieves pain without affecting consciousness. These include such drugs as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen
Non-narcotic analgesics
such as aspirin, are sold over the counter for mild to moderate pain. Prescription pain relievers, sold through a pharmacy under the direction of a physician, are used for moderate to severe pain
Narcotic analgesics
such as morphine, Demerol, and codeine, are available by prescription only to relieve severe pain. These medications also have a sedative (calming) effect and can cause physical dependence or addiction
Acetaminophen
an analgesic that reduces pain and fever but does not relieve inflammation; however, it does not have the negative side effects of NSAIDS. This substance is the basic ingredient found in Tylenol and its generic equivalent
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
non-narcotic analgesics administered to control pain by reducing inflammation and swelling. NSAIDS, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, are available over the counter. Stronger NSAIDs are available by prescription. Medications in this group can cause side effects, including attacking the stomach lining and thinning the blood
Ibuprofen
a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine that is sold over the counter under the brand names of Advil and Motrin. This medication acts an analgesic and an antipyretic
anticonvulsants and antidepressants
Anticonvulsants are traditionally administered to prevent seizures such as those associated with epilepsy. Antidepressants are primarily administered to prevent or relieve depression.
Pain-relieving creams
applied topically to relieve pain due to conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The primary active ingredient in these ointments is capsaicin, a chemical found in chili peppers
Transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS)
a method of pain control by wearing a device that delivers small electrical impulses, as needed, to the nerve endings through the skin ( trans- means across, cutane means skin, and -ous means pertaining to). These electrical impulses cause changes in muscles, such as numbness or contractions, which produce temporary pain relief. The term transcutaneous means performed through the unbroken skin
Inhalation administration
describes vapors and gases taken in through the nose or mouth and absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs. One example is the use of a metered-dose inhaler to treat asthma (see Chapter 7) or the gases used for general anesthesia
Oral administration
refers to medications taken by mouth to be absorbed through the walls of the stomach or small intestine. These drugs can be in the form of liquids, tablets (pills), or capsules. Medications to be released in the small intestine are covered with an enteric coating to prevent them from being absorbed in the stomach
Rectal administration
is the insertion of medication in the rectum either in the form of a suppository or a liquid. A suppository is medication in a semisolid form that is introduced into the rectum. The suppository melts at body temperature, and the medication is absorbed through the surrounding tissues
Sublingual administration
the placement of medication under the tongue where it is allowed to dissolve slowly ( sub- means under, lingu means tongue, and -al means pertaining to). Because the sublingual tissues are highly vascular, the medication is quickly absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Highly vascular means containing many blood vessels
topical application
a liquid or ointment that is rubbed into the skin on the area to be treated; for example, cortisone ointment is applied topically to relieve itching and to speed healing; antibiotic ointments are applied over minor wounds to prevent infection
transdermal
medication is administered from a patch that is applied to unbroken skin ( trans- means through or across, derm means skin, and -al means pertaining to). The medication, which is continuously released by the patch, is absorbed through the skin and transmitted to the bloodstream so that it can produce a systemic effect. These multilayered patches are used to convey medications, such as nitroglycerin for angina, hormones for hormone replacement therapy, or nicotine patches for smoking cessation
parenteral
means taken into the body or administered in a manner other than through the digestive tract. The most common use of parenteral administration is by injection through a hypodermic syringe
Subcutaneous injection (SC)
made into the fatty layer just below the skin
intradermal injection
made into the middle layers of the skin
intramuscular injection (IM)
made directly into muscle tissue
intravenous injection (IV)
made directly into a vein
PICC line
, which is the abbreviation for peripherally inserted central catheter, is frequently used for a patient who will need IV therapy for more than 7 days
bolus
which is also known as a bolus infusion, is a single, concentrated dose of a drug usually injected into a blood vessel over a short period of time. The term bolus is also used in relation to the digestive system
complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)
available to patients today. Some have been researched and proven effective, while others have little research to support their claims. These therapies can be used to supplement or replace allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine
is another term for conventional, or Western, medical practices and systems of health care
Alternative medicine
general term for practices and systems of health care other than allopathic approaches used in place of these treatments
Complementary medicine
a general term for practices and systems of health care other than allopathic approaches used to supplement these treatments
Integrative medicine
a model of health care based on both allopathic and alternative medicine
holistic
to a treatment approach that takes into consideration the whole body and its environment, including the mind, body, and spirit
Wellness
a general term that means actively working toward a state of being in good physical and mental health. Factors contributing to wellness include a healthy diet, exercise, stress reduction, and the avoidance of risky behavior such as smoking or not wearing a seatbelt
Ayurvedic medicine
s the traditional Hindu system of medicine, emphasizing a holistic approach to preventive treatment through hygiene, exercise, herbal preparations, and yoga and the treatment of illnesses with herbal medicines, physiotherapy, and diet
Traditional Chinese medicine
a system of ancient Chinese medicinal treatments including acupuncture, diet, herbal therapy, meditation, physical exercise, and massage to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease
Kinesiology
the study of body movements and physical activity. This science should not be confused with applied kinesiology, an alternative therapy that combines muscle monitoring with the principles of Chinese medicine
Naturopathy
also known as naturopathic medicine, is a combination of nutrition, medicinal supplements and herbs, water therapy, homeopathy, and lifestyle modifications used to identify and treat the root causes of symptoms and disease instead of surgery and drugs. It emphasizes supporting the body’s own innate healing ability and the healing power of nature
Homeopathy
involves the use of substances created from plant or mineral products diluted a thousand-fold in water or alcohol. Homeopaths believe that the body can stimulate its own healing responses when the right trigger is given in minute doses, producing symptoms similar to the disease being treated
Mind–body therapies
try to reduce stress and prevent its negative effects on the body. They can be used for stress reduction, pain management, lifestyle changes, and depression. These therapies are based on the belief that emotions, such as stress, trigger physiological responses. By becoming aware of and reducing stressful emotions and thoughts, it is possible to decrease physical stress and its negative effects
Biofeedback
a patient-guided treatment that teaches individuals to control muscle tension, pain, body temperature, brain waves, and other bodily functions through relaxation, visualization, and other cognitive control techniques
Guided imagery
or visualization, is a type of treatment in which a patient follows verbal prompts to envision a specific, peaceful location in detail, distancing him- or herself from any pain or stress the patient is currently experiencing
Hypnosis
a type of therapy in which a patient is placed in a state of focused concentration and narrowed attention that makes him or her more susceptible to suggestions, and then given suggestions directed toward the patient’s treatment goal
Mindfulness meditation
focuses on becoming aware of thoughts and emotions and their physiological responses, as well as accepting them and maintaining a calm, constant awareness
Energy therapies
to improve or maintain health by manipulating the body’s energy flow, or qi. Qi is believed to be the fundamental life energy responsible for health and vitality. These therapies are based on the belief that illness is linked to blocked or insufficient energy levels
Acupressure
a traditional Chinese touch therapy involving finger pressure applied to specific areas of the body to restore the flow of qi
Acupuncture
a traditional Chinese medical practice using very thin acupuncture needles inserted into specific points of the body to restore the flow of qi
Reiki
a Japanese technique in which the practitioner transfers healing energy to the patient by means of visualization or gentle touch
Hands-on therapies
try to improve body function by physically manipulating or massaging the body. They can be used for neck or back pain, relaxation, and increased range of motion. This therapy is based on the belief that the body functions more efficiently when it is in proper alignment, and that it is possible to identify and correct poor movement and posture habits
Chiropractic manipulative therapy
a system of mechanical spinal adjustments made by a chiropractor to correct biomechanical problems in the skeletal framework of the body
Osteopathic manipulative therapy
mechanical spinal adjustment used in conjunction with conventional medical therapies by an osteopath (
Craniosacral therapy
the use of gentle touch to help the body release tension, stress, and trauma to correct restrictions resulting from stress on the central nervous system
Myofascial release
a specialized soft-tissue manipulation technique used to ease the pain of conditions such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, movement restrictions, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), and carpal tunnel syndrome
Neuromuscular therapy (NMT)
a form of massage that uses soft-tissue manipulation focusing on applying pressure to trigger points to treat injuries and alleviate pain. A trigger point is a particularly taut band of muscle that is tender to the touch
ADR
adverse drug reaction
BPM
beats per minute
BP
blood pressure
BUN
blood urea nitrogen
CBC
complete blood count
CT Scan
computed tomography scan
Endo
endoscopy
ESR
erythrocyte sedimentation rate
ESR
erythrocyte sedimentation rate
HCT
hematocrit
MRI
magnetic resonance imaging
RR
respiratory rate
TPR
temperature, pulse, respiration
WBC
white blood count
