Medical Equipment Flashcards
What’s an x ray?
An X-ray is a form of electromagnetic radiation that can penetrate solid objects, including human tissue.
It is commonly used in medical imaging to visualize the internal structures of the body, helping to diagnose conditions and injuries.
How does X-RAYS work?
Emission: An X-ray machine produces X-rays that pass through the body.
Absorption: Different tissues absorb X-rays at
different rates. Dense tissues (like bones) absorb more X-rays and appear white on the image, while softer tissues (like muscles and organs) allow more X-rays to pass through and appear darker.
Detection: The X-rays that pass through the body are captured on a film or digital detector to create an image.
Why do we use X-rays?
Diagnosis: Identifying fractures, infections, tumors, and other conditions.
Monitoring: Tracking the progress of certain diseases or the effectiveness of treatments.
Dental Imaging: Checking for cavities and other dental issues.
What is a CT or CAT scan?
(Computerized axial tomography)
A CT scan (computed tomography scan) is a medical test that uses X-rays and a computer to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body.
It helps doctors see organs, bones, and tissues more clearly than regular X-rays.
Difference between CT scans and X RAYS?
X-rays: Commonly used for diagnosing fractures and checking for infections.
CT Scans: Used for more complex conditions, like tumors, internal injuries, and detailed examinations of organs.
Example of CT scan?
CT Scan: Used to detect brain injuries, bleeding, tumors, or stroke.
Chest CT Scan: Helps identify lung diseases, such as pneumonia, tumors, or blood clots.
Abdominal CT Scan: Evaluates conditions in the abdominal organs, including appendicitis, pancreatitis, or cancers.
What’s an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a medical test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body.
It’s often used to check on the health of organs and monitor pregnancies.
How to use an ultra sound?
Preparation: The patient may need to drink water or avoid food.
Positioning: The patient lies on an exam table.
Applying Gel: A gel is put on the skin to help the sound waves.
Using the Transducer: A small device is moved over the gelled area to take images.
Completion: The gel is wiped off, and the patient can go back to normal activities.
Example of ultra sound? (Except for pregnancies)
Abdominal ultrasound: To examine organs like the liver, gallbladder, and kidneys.
Cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram): To evaluate heart function and structure.
What’s the definition of an MRI scan?
An MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging) is a test that uses strong magnets and radio waves to take detailed pictures of the inside of the body.
It’s especially good for looking at soft tissues, like the brain and organs, and doesn’t use radiation.
Examples of MRI scans?
Brain MRI: Used to diagnose conditions like tumors, strokes, or multiple sclerosis.
Spine MRI: Helps assess issues like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or injuries.
Joint MRI: Examines problems in joints like the knee or shoulder, including tears or arthritis.
What’s cancer screening?
Cancer screening is a medical process used to detect cancer in individuals who do not have any symptoms.
The goal is to find cancer early when it is more likely to be treatable and potentially curable.
Examples of cancer screening methods?
Mammograms: For breast cancer detection.
Pap Smears: To screen for cervical cancer.
Colonoscopy: For colorectal cancer screening.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: For prostate cancer.
Low-Dose CT Scan: For lung cancer in high-risk individuals.
