Category: Terminology

Assessment

A structured process used to gather information about a persons condition. It helps identify needs and guide care.

Goal

A desired outcome that guides the care plan. Goals help measure progress.

Intervention

An action taken to improve a persons condition. It is based on assessment findings.

Evaluation

A review of progress toward goals. It helps determine if changes are needed.

Care Plan

A written outline of needs goals and interventions. It guides daily care.

Priority

The level of importance assigned to a need. High priority needs require immediate attention.

Outcome

The result of care provided. Outcomes show whether goals were met.

Implementation

The process of carrying out interventions. It requires coordination and communication.

Documentation

A written record of care provided. It ensures continuity and accountability.

Reassessment

A repeat evaluation to check for changes. It helps update the care plan.

Discharge Plan

A plan for care after leaving a facility. It supports safe transitions.

Support System

People who help with emotional or physical needs. A strong support system improves outcomes.

Symptom Management

Actions taken to reduce discomfort. It helps improve quality of life.

Monitoring

Ongoing observation of a persons condition. It helps detect changes early.

Collaboration

Working with others to provide care. It improves outcomes.

Individualized Care

Care tailored to a persons unique needs. It respects preferences and abilities.

Risk Factor

A condition that increases the chance of problems. Identifying risks helps prevent complications.

Strengths

Abilities that support recovery. Recognizing strengths helps build confidence.

Plan of Care Review

A regular check of the care plan. It ensures goals remain appropriate.

Progress Note

A record of changes and responses to care. It helps track improvement.

Growth Chart

A tool that tracks height weight and development. It helps identify growth patterns.

Milestone

A skill that children typically achieve at certain ages. Delays may signal developmental concerns.

Immunization

A vaccine that protects children from disease. It strengthens the immune system.

Well Child Visit

A routine checkup to monitor growth and health. It includes screening and education.

Pediatric Dose

A medication amount adjusted for a childs size. It ensures safety and effectiveness.

Teething

The process of baby teeth emerging. It can cause fussiness and drooling.

Colic

Crying episodes in infants without a clear cause. It usually improves with time.

Bonding

The emotional connection between a child and caregiver. It supports healthy development.

Separation Anxiety

Distress when a child is away from caregivers. It is common in early childhood.

Play Therapy

A method that helps children express feelings. It uses toys and activities.

Developmental Delay

Slower progress in skills such as walking or talking. Early intervention can help.

Failure to Thrive

Poor growth in infants or children. It may result from medical or social factors.

Pediatric Assessment

An evaluation of a childs health. It includes physical and developmental checks.

Congenital Condition

A condition present at birth. It may affect structure or function.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus

A common virus that affects young children. It can cause breathing problems.

Ear Infection

A common childhood illness. It can cause pain fever and irritability.

Dehydration

A lack of fluids in the body. Children can become dehydrated quickly.

Nutrition Needs

The dietary requirements for growth. Children need balanced meals for development.

Safety Measures

Steps taken to prevent injury. They include supervision and childproofing.

School Readiness

A childs ability to participate in learning. It includes social and cognitive skills.

IV Catheter

A small flexible tube inserted into a vein. It allows fluids or medications to enter the bloodstream.

Infusion

The slow delivery of fluids into a vein. It helps maintain hydration or deliver treatment.

Drip Rate

The speed at which fluid enters the body. It is measured in drops per minute.

Saline

A sterile saltwater solution. It is used for hydration and medication delivery.

Flush

A small amount of fluid used to clear a catheter. It helps keep the line open.

Infiltration

Fluid leaking into surrounding tissue. It causes swelling and discomfort.

Phlebitis

Inflammation of a vein. It may cause redness warmth and pain.

Central Line

A catheter placed in a large vein. It is used for long term or complex treatments.

Peripheral Line

A catheter placed in a small vein. It is used for short term therapy.

IV Pump

A machine that controls infusion rate. It ensures accurate delivery.

Bolus

A large dose of fluid given quickly. It is used in emergencies.

Site Rotation

Changing the location of an IV. It helps prevent complications.

Sterile Technique

A method used to prevent contamination. It protects against infection.

Tubing

Flexible plastic that carries fluid from the bag to the catheter. It must be changed regularly.

Backflow

Fluid moving in the wrong direction. It can affect infusion accuracy.

Air Embolism

Air entering the bloodstream. It is rare but dangerous.

Compatibility

The ability of medications to mix safely. Incompatible drugs can cause reactions.

Labeling

Marking IV equipment with important information. It helps prevent errors.

Drip Chamber

A part of the tubing that controls flow. It helps prevent air from entering the line.

Patency

The openness of a catheter. A patent line allows fluid to flow freely.

Tumor

An abnormal growth of cells. It can be benign or malignant.

Benign

A non cancerous growth. It does not spread to other parts of the body.

Malignant

A cancerous growth that can invade nearby tissues. It may spread to distant organs.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. It often indicates advanced disease.

Chemotherapy

A treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may cause side effects due to its strength.

Radiation Therapy

A treatment that uses high energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It targets specific areas.

Biopsy

The removal of tissue for examination. It helps confirm a cancer diagnosis.

Oncologist

A doctor who specializes in cancer treatment. They guide diagnosis and therapy.

Remission

A period when cancer signs decrease or disappear. It may be temporary or long term.

Relapse

The return of cancer after improvement. It may require additional treatment.

Carcinogen

A substance that can cause cancer. Examples include tobacco smoke and certain chemicals.

Staging

A process that determines how far cancer has spread. It helps guide treatment decisions.

Grading

A measure of how abnormal cancer cells look. It helps predict how quickly cancer may grow.

Immunotherapy

A treatment that boosts the immune system to fight cancer. It can improve long term outcomes.

Targeted Therapy

A treatment that focuses on specific cancer cell features. It often has fewer side effects.

Palliative Care

Care that focuses on comfort and quality of life. It supports people with serious illness.

Tumor Marker

A substance found in blood or tissue that may indicate cancer. It helps monitor treatment.

Surgery

A procedure to remove cancer or affected tissue. It is often part of treatment.

Radiologist

A specialist who interprets imaging tests. They help detect and monitor cancer.

Survivorship

The phase of life after cancer treatment. It includes follow up care and support.

Temperature

A measure of body heat. It helps detect infection or illness.

Pulse

The number of heartbeats per minute. It shows how well the heart is working.

Respiration

The number of breaths per minute. It helps assess breathing.

Blood Pressure

The force of blood against artery walls. It indicates heart and vessel health.

Oxygen Saturation

The percentage of oxygen in the blood. Low levels may indicate breathing problems.

Baseline

A persons normal vital sign values. Changes from baseline may signal issues.

Apnea

A temporary pause in breathing. It may occur during sleep or illness.

Tachycardia

A fast heart rate. It may be caused by stress or illness.

Bradycardia

A slow heart rate. It may indicate heart problems.

Hypertension

High blood pressure. It increases the risk of heart disease.

Hypotension

Low blood pressure. It can cause dizziness or fainting.

Dyspnea

Difficulty breathing. It may indicate respiratory issues.

Auscultation

Listening to body sounds. It helps assess heart and lung function.

Perfusion

The flow of blood to tissues. Poor perfusion can cause damage.

Cyanosis

A bluish color of skin caused by low oxygen. It requires immediate attention.

Trend

A pattern of changes over time. Trends help identify improvement or decline.

Orthostatic Change

A drop in blood pressure when standing. It may cause dizziness.

Pulse Pressure

The difference between systolic and diastolic pressure. It helps assess circulation.

Irregular Rhythm

A heartbeat that does not follow a normal pattern. It may require evaluation.

Vital Sign Range

The normal limits for vital signs. Values outside the range may indicate problems.

Triage

The process of prioritizing care based on severity. It ensures the sickest receive help first.

Stabilization

Actions taken to keep a person safe until full treatment is available. It focuses on vital functions.

Airway

The passage that allows air to enter the lungs. Keeping it open is the first priority in emergencies.

CPR

A lifesaving technique that supports breathing and circulation. It is used when the heart stops.

Shock

A life threatening condition where organs do not get enough blood. It requires immediate treatment.

Trauma

A serious injury caused by external force. It may affect multiple body systems.

Vital Signs

Measurements that show basic body function. They include pulse breathing and blood pressure.

Hemorrhage

Severe bleeding that can be internal or external. It must be controlled quickly.

Splinting

A method of immobilizing an injured limb. It prevents further damage.

Defibrillation

A shock delivered to restore normal heart rhythm. It is used during cardiac arrest.

First Responder

A trained person who provides initial emergency care. They stabilize the situation.

Burn

Damage to skin caused by heat chemicals or electricity. Severity depends on depth and size.

Fracture

A break in a bone. It may require immobilization or surgery.

Seizure

A sudden burst of abnormal brain activity. It can cause shaking or loss of awareness.

Allergic Reaction

A response to a substance that causes symptoms. Severe reactions can affect breathing.

Anaphylaxis

A life threatening allergic reaction. It requires immediate medication.

Respiratory Arrest

A condition where breathing stops. It requires urgent support.

Cardiac Arrest

A condition where the heart stops beating. Immediate CPR is needed.

Tourniquet

A device used to stop severe bleeding. It must be applied correctly.

EMS

A system that provides emergency medical services. It includes ambulances and trained personnel.

Fracture

A break in a bone caused by trauma or disease. It requires stabilization and monitoring for healing.

Sprain

An injury to ligaments caused by stretching or tearing. It often results in swelling and pain.

Strain

An injury to muscles or tendons from overstretching. It can limit movement and cause discomfort.

Dislocation

A condition where a bone is forced out of its normal position. It requires prompt repositioning to prevent damage.

Cast

A hard protective shell used to immobilize a bone. It supports healing by keeping the area stable.

Splint

A device used to support and immobilize an injured limb. It is often used temporarily before a cast.

Traction

A method of applying force to align bones or relieve pressure. It helps maintain proper positioning.

Range of Motion

The degree of movement possible at a joint. It is used to assess mobility and function.

Osteoporosis

A condition where bones become weak and brittle. It increases the risk of fractures.

Arthritis

Inflammation of a joint causing pain and stiffness. It can limit mobility and daily activities.

Joint Replacement

A surgical procedure to replace a damaged joint with an artificial one. It improves mobility and reduces pain.

Ligament

A tough band of tissue connecting bones. It provides stability to joints.

Tendon

A fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone. It helps produce movement.

Cartilage

A smooth tissue covering bone ends in joints. It reduces friction and absorbs shock.

Orthosis

A supportive device used to correct or assist movement. It helps stabilize weak or injured areas.

Gait

The pattern of walking or movement. Changes in gait can indicate injury or weakness.

Weight Bearing

The amount of weight a person can safely place on a limb. It is determined by the provider.

Edema

Swelling caused by fluid buildup. It often occurs after injury or surgery.

Crepitus

A crackling or grinding sensation in a joint. It may indicate damage or inflammation.

Alignment

The proper positioning of bones or joints. Good alignment supports healing and function.

Ovulation

The release of an egg from the ovary. It occurs once per cycle.

Fertilization

The joining of an egg and sperm. It marks the beginning of pregnancy.

Contraception

Methods used to prevent pregnancy. Options vary in effectiveness.

Menstruation

The monthly shedding of the uterine lining. It is part of the reproductive cycle.

Hormone Cycle

The pattern of hormone changes during the month. It affects mood and fertility.

Pregnancy

The period when a fetus develops in the uterus. It lasts about forty weeks.

Labor

The process of childbirth. It includes contractions and delivery.

Postpartum

The period after childbirth. It involves physical and emotional recovery.

Infertility

Difficulty becoming pregnant after trying for a year. It may affect any gender.

STD

An infection spread through sexual contact. Early treatment prevents complications.

Pap Test

A screening that checks for cervical changes. It helps detect early disease.

Ultrasound

An imaging test that uses sound waves. It helps monitor pregnancy and reproductive organs.

Trimester

A three month period of pregnancy. Each trimester has different developmental stages.

Breastfeeding

Feeding an infant with breast milk. It provides nutrition and immune support.

Menopause

The natural end of menstrual cycles. It usually occurs in midlife.

Estrogen

A hormone involved in reproductive health. It affects bones and mood.

Testosterone

A hormone that supports reproductive function. It is present in all genders.

Embryo

An early stage of fetal development. It forms shortly after fertilization.

Fetus

A developing baby after the early stages. It grows until birth.

Conception

The moment when fertilization occurs. It begins the pregnancy process.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Low levels can indicate anemia.

Hematocrit

The percentage of blood volume made up of red blood cells. It helps assess hydration and anemia.

Platelets

Cells that help blood clot. Low levels increase bleeding risk.

White Blood Cells

Cells that fight infection. High or low levels can signal illness.

Anemia

A condition where the blood has reduced oxygen carrying capacity. It often causes fatigue and weakness.

Leukemia

A cancer of blood forming tissues. It affects white blood cell production.

Clotting Factor

A protein needed for blood to clot properly. Deficiencies can cause bleeding disorders.

Coagulation

The process of blood clot formation. It prevents excessive bleeding.

Bone Marrow

The tissue inside bones that produces blood cells. Damage can affect immunity and oxygen transport.

Transfusion

The transfer of blood or blood products into a person. It is used to treat severe blood loss or disorders.

Iron Deficiency

A lack of iron needed to produce hemoglobin. It is a common cause of anemia.

Hemolysis

The destruction of red blood cells. It can lead to jaundice and anemia.

Thrombosis

The formation of a blood clot inside a vessel. It can block blood flow and cause complications.

Neutrophils

A type of white blood cell that fights infection. Low levels increase infection risk.

Lymphocytes

White blood cells involved in immune response. They help fight viruses and produce antibodies.

Eosinophils

White blood cells involved in allergic reactions. High levels may indicate allergies or parasites.

Basophils

White blood cells that release chemicals during inflammation. They play a role in immune response.

Plasma

The liquid portion of blood that carries cells and nutrients. It makes up most of blood volume.

Red Blood Cells

Cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. Their number affects energy and organ function.

Hemostasis

The process of stopping bleeding. It involves clotting factors platelets and vessel constriction.

Pathogen

A microorganism that causes disease. It can spread through contact air or bodily fluids.

Sterilization

A process that destroys all microorganisms. It is used for surgical instruments and critical equipment.

Disinfection

A method that reduces harmful microorganisms on surfaces. It helps prevent infection spread.

Isolation

Separating individuals to prevent transmission of infection. It protects both the person and others.

Standard Precautions

Basic infection control practices used for all individuals. They include hand hygiene and protective equipment.

Transmission

The way an infection spreads from one person to another. It can occur through contact droplets or air.

Vector

An organism that carries and spreads disease. Examples include insects and rodents.

Host

An organism that can be infected by a pathogen. Host factors influence disease severity.

Contamination

The presence of harmful microorganisms on surfaces or objects. It increases infection risk.

Hand Hygiene

Cleaning hands to remove germs. It is the most effective way to prevent infection.

Personal Protective Equipment

Items worn to reduce exposure to hazards. Examples include gloves gowns and masks.

Aseptic Technique

Practices that prevent contamination during procedures. It helps protect vulnerable individuals.

Colonization

The presence of bacteria without causing illness. It can still contribute to spread.

Outbreak

A sudden increase in cases of a disease. It requires rapid response to control.

Antibiotic Resistance

A condition where bacteria no longer respond to medications. It makes infections harder to treat.

Fomite

An object that can carry infectious agents. Examples include doorknobs and medical equipment.

Airborne Precautions

Measures used to prevent spread of infections through the air. They require specialized masks.

Droplet Precautions

Measures used to prevent spread through respiratory droplets. They include masks and distancing.

Contact Precautions

Measures used to prevent spread through direct or indirect contact. They include gloves and gowns.

Incubation Period

The time between exposure and symptom onset. It varies by disease.