MOSBY'S BOOK Flashcards
(614 cards)
1
Q
Abbreviation
A
A shortened form of a word or phrase.
2
Q
Abduction
A
Moving a body part away from the mid-line of the body.
3
Q
Abrasion
A
A partial-thickness wound caused by the scraping away or rubbing of the skin.
4
Q
Abuse
A
Depriving the person (or the person’s caregiver) of the goods or services needed to attain or maintain well-being.
5
Q
Accountable
A
To answer to one’s self and others about his or her choices, decisions, and actions.
6
Q
Ketone
A
Acids that your body makes when it breaks down fat for energy.
7
Q
Acetone
A
Relevant as a ketone body, a byproduct of fat metabolism, and its presence in urine or breath can indicate conditions like diabetes or ketoacidosis, requiring careful monitoring and management.
8
Q
Acid Reflux
A
Acid reflux is when stomach acid moves up into the throat, causing a burning feeling in the chest (heartburn).
9
Q
Activities of daily living (ADL)
A
The activities usually done during a normal day in a person’s life.
10
Q
Acute illness
A
An illness of rapid onset and short duration; the person is expected to recover.
11
Q
Acute pain
A
Pain that is sharp or severe; may be felt suddenly from injury, disease, trauma, or surgery.
12
Q
Addiction
A
A chronic disease involving substance-seeking behaviors and use that is compulsive and hard to control despite the harmful effects.
13
Q
Adduction
A
Moving a body part toward the mid-line of the body.
14
Q
Admission
A
Official entry of a person into a health care setting.
15
Q
Adolescence
A
The time between puberty and adulthood; a time of rapid growth and physical, sexual, emotional, and social changes.
16
Q
Advance directive
A
A document stating a person’s wishes about health care when that person cannot make his or her own decisions.
17
Q
Afebrile
A
Without (a) a fever (febrile).
18
Q
Affected side
A
The side of the body with weakness from illness or injury; weak side.
19
Q
Alcoholism
A
Alcohol dependence that involves craving, loss of control, physical dependence, and tolerance.
20
Q
Allergy
A
A sensitivity to a substance that causes the body to react with signs and symptoms.
21
Q
Alopecia
A
Hair loss.
22
Q
AM care
A
Early morning care.
23
Q
Ambulation
A
The act of walking.
24
Q
Amputation
A
The removal of all or part of an extremity (In amputation, extremity refers to a limb or part of a limb, such as an arm, hand, leg, or foot, that is surgically removed due to injury, disease, or medical necessity).
25
Anaphylaxis
A life-threatening sensitivity to an antigen.
26
Anesthesia
The loss (an) of all sensation (esthesia), especially pain, produced by a drug.
"ANESTHESIA: A Numb, Easy State That Helps End Sensation In A procedure."
27
Anorexia
The loss of appetite.
28
Anterior
At or toward the front of the body or body part; ventral.
29
Antibiotic
A drug that kills certain microbes that cause infection.
30
Anticoagulant
A drug that prevents or slows down (anti) blood clotting (coagulate).
31
Antisepsis
The processes, procedures, and chemical treatments that kill microbes or prevent them from causing an infection; anti means against and sepsis means infection.
32
Antiseptic
A chemical applied to the skin to prevent the growth and reproduction of microbes.
33
Anxiety
A feeling of worry, nervousness, or fear about an event or situation.
34
Aphasia
The total or partial loss (a) of the ability to use or understand language (phasia).
35
Apical-radial pulse
Taking the apical and radial pulses at the same time.
36
Apnea
The lack or absence (a) of breathing (pnea).
37
Arrhythmia
It is an irregular or abnormal heartbeat. Think of arrhythmia like a drummer losing the beat—your heart isn't keeping a steady rhythm.
38
Arterial ulcer
An open wound on the foot, ankle, or lower leg caused by poor arterial blood flow.
39
Artery
A blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.
40
Arthritis
Joint (arthr) inflammation (itis).
41
Arthroplasty
The surgical replacement (plasty) of a joint (arthro).
42
Asepsis
The absence (a) of disease-producing microbes; sepsis means infection.
43
Aspiration
Breathing fluid, food, vomitus, or an object into the lungs.
44
Assault
Intentionally attempting or threatening to touch a person's body without the person's consent.
45
Assessment
Collecting information about the person.
46
Assisted living
A housing option for older persons who need help with activities of daily living but do not need 24-hour nursing care and supervision.
47
Assisted living residence (ALR)
Provides housing, personal care, support services, health care, and social activities in a home-like setting to persons needing some help with daily activities.
48
Atelectasis
The collapse of a portion of a lung.
49
Atrophy
The decrease in size or wasting away of tissue.
50
Autopsy
The examination of the body after death.
51
Avoidable pressure injury
A pressure injury that develops from the improper use of the nursing process.
52
Bariatrics
The field of medicine focused on the treatment and control of obesity.
53
Base of support
The area on which an object rests.
54
Battery
Touching a person's body without his or her consent.
55
Bedfast
Confined to bed.
56
Bed mobility
How a person moves to and from a lying position, turns from side to side, and re-positions in a bed or other sleeping furniture.
57
Bed rail
A device that serves as a guard or barrier along the side of the bed; side rail.
58
Bed rest
Restricting a person to bed and limiting activity for health reasons.
59
Benign tumor
A tumor that does not spread to other body parts.
60
Biohazardous waste
Items contaminated with blood, body fluids, secretions, or excretions; bio means life and hazardous means dangerous or harmful.
61
Biopsy
A procedure in which a piece of tissue is removed for testing.
62
Biot's respirations
Rapid and deep respirations followed by 10 to 30 seconds of apnea (Apnea means a temporary pause in breathing, often during sleep).
63
Birth defect
A problem that develops during pregnancy, often during the first 3 months; it may involve a body structure or function.
64
Bisexual
A person who is attracted to males and females.
65
Blindness
The absence of sight.
66
Blood pressure (BP)
The amount of force exerted against the walls of an artery by the blood.
67
Body alignment
The way the head, trunk, arms, and legs align with one another; posture.
68
Body language
Messages sent through facial expressions, gestures, posture, hand and body movements, gait, eye contact, and appearance.
69
Body mechanics
Using the body in an efficient and careful way.
70
Body temperature
The amount of heat in the body that is a balance between the amount of heat produced and the amount lost by the body.
71
Bony prominence
An area where the bone sticks out or projects from the flat surface of the body; pressure point.
72
Boundary crossing
A brief act or behavior of being overinvolved with the person (The intent of the act or behavior is to meet the person's needs).
73
Boundary sign
An act, behavior, or thought that warns of a boundary crossing or boundary violation.
74
Boundary violation
An act or behavior that meets your needs, not the person's.
75
Bradycardia
A slow (brady) heart rate (cardia); less than 60 beats per minute.
76
Bradypnea
Slow (brady) breathing (pnea); respirations are fewer than 12 per minute.
77
Braille
A touch reading and writing system that uses raised dots for each letter of the alphabet; the first 10 letters also represent the numbers 0 through 9.
78
Breast-feeding
Feeding a baby milk from the mother's breasts; nursing.
79
Broca's aphasia
Expressive aphasia.
80
Bullying
Repeated attacks or threats of fear, distress, or harm by a bully toward a target.
81
Burnout
A job stress resulting in being physically or mentally exhausted, having doubts about your abilities, and having doubts about the value of your work.
82
Calorie
The fuel or energy value of food.
83
Capillary
A very tiny blood vessel; nutrients, oxygen, and other substances pass from the capillaries into the cells.
84
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
An emergency procedure performed when the heart and breathing stop.
85
Carrier
A human or animal that is a reservoir for microbes but does not develop the infection.
86
Case management
A nursing care pattern; services for the person’s care needs are obtained and monitored from admission through discharge and into the home or longterm care setting.
87
Catheter
A tube used to drain or inject fluid through a body opening.
88
Catheterization
The process of inserting a catheter.
89
Cell
The basic unit of body structure.
90
Certification
Official recognition by a state that standards or requirements have been met.
91
Cerumen
Earwax.
92
Chairfast
Confined to a chair.
93
Chemical restraint
Any drug used for discipline or convenience and not required to treat medical symptoms.
94
Cheyne-Stokes respirations
Respirations gradually increase in rate and depth and then become shallow and slow; breathing may stop (apnea) for
10 to 20 seconds.
95
Child abuse and neglect
The intentional harm or mistreatment of a child under 18 years old.
96
Cholesterol
A soft, waxy substance found in the bloodstream and all body cells.
97
Chronic illness
A long-term health condition that may not have a cure; it can be controlled and complications prevented with proper treatment.
98
Chronic pain
Pain that continues for a long time (longer than 12 weeks, occurs off and on, or is persistent [constant]).
99
Chronic wound
A wound that does not heal easily and within about 3 months.
100
Circadian rhythm
Daily rhythm based on a 24-hour cycle that involves behavior, sleep, eating, and waking patterns; the day-night cycle or body rhythm.
101
Circulatory ulcer
An open sore on the lower legs or feet caused by decreased blood flow through the arteries or veins; vascular ulcer.
102
Circumcised
The fold of skin (foreskin) covering the glans of the penis was surgically removed.
103
Circumcision
The surgical removal of foreskin from the penis.
104
Civil law
Laws concerned with relationships between people.
105
Clean technique
Practices that reduce the risk of infection by keeping hands, surfaces, and equipment as free from germs as possible. It includes handwashing, using gloves, and disinfecting surfaces, but it’s not as strict as sterile technique. (Medical asepsis).
106
Closed fracture
The bone is broken but the skin is intact; simple fracture.
107
Code of ethics
Rules, or standards of conduct, for group members to follow.
108
Cognitive function
Involves memory, thinking, reasoning, ability to understand, judgment, and behavior.
109
Colonized
The presence of bacteria or other microorganisms in or on a part of the body without causing disease or symptoms.
110
Colostomy
A surgically created opening (stomy) between the colon (colo) and the body's surface.
111
Coma
A state of being unaware of one's setting and being unable to react or respond to people, places, or things.
112
Comatose
Being unable to respond to stimuli.
113
Comfort
A state of well-being; the person has no physical or emotional pain and is calm and at ease.
114
Comminuted fracture
The bone is shattered or broken into 3 or more pieces.
115
Communicable disease
A disease caused by a pathogen that spreads easily; contagious disease.
116
Communication
The exchange of information—a message sent is received and correctly interpreted by the intended person.
117
Compound fracture
Also called an (open fracture) is a broken bone that pierces through the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
118
Compress
A soft pad applied over a body area.
119
Compulsion
An over-whelming urge to repeat certain rituals, acts, or behaviors.
120
Condom catheter
A soft sheath that slides over the penis and is used to drain urine.
121
Confidentiality
Trusting others with personal and private information.
122
Conflict
A clash between opposing interests or ideas.
123
Confusion
A state of being disoriented to person, time, place, situation, or identity.
124
Congenital
To be born with.
125
Constipation
The passage of a hard, dry stool.
126
Constrict
To narrow.
127
Contracture
Decreased motion and stiffness of a joint caused by shortening (contracting) of a muscle.
128
Convenience
Any action taken to control or manage a person's behavior that requires less effort by the staff; the action is not in the person's best interest.
129
Convulsion
Seizure.
130
Cotton drawsheet
A drawsheet made of cotton; it helps keep the mattress and bottom linens clean.
131
Courtesy
A polite, considerate, or helpful comment or act.
132
Cross-contamination
Passing microbes from 1 person to another by contaminated hands, equipment, or supplies.
133
Cyanosis
Bluish (cyano) color; bluish color (cyano) to the skin, lips, mucous membranes, and nail beds.
134
Dandruff
Excessive amounts of dry, white flakes from the scalp.
135
Deconditioning
The loss of muscle strength from inactivity.
136
Defamation
Injuring a person's name and reputation by making false statements to a third person.
137
Defecation
The process of excreting feces from the rectum through the anus; a bowel movement.
138
Defense mechanism
An unconscious reaction that blocks unpleasant or threatening feelings.
139
Dehydration
The excessive loss of water from tissues; a decrease in the amount of water in body tissues.
140
Delegate
To authorize or direct a nursing assistant to perform a nursing task.
141
Delegated nursing responsibility
A nursing task that a nurse transfers to a nursing assistant when it does not require a nurse's professional knowledge or judgment.
142
Delegation
The process a nurse uses to direct a nursing assistant to perform a nursing task; allowing a nursing assistant to
perform a nursing responsibility that is beyond the nursing assistant's usual role and not routinely done by the nursing assistant.
143
Delirium
A state of sudden, severe confusion and rapid changes in brain function.
144
Delusion
A false belief.
145
Delusion of grandeur
An exaggerated belief about one's importance, fame, wealth, power, or talents.
146
Delusion of persecution
A false belief that one is being mistreated, abused, or harassed.
147
Dementia
The loss of cognitive and social function caused by changes in the brain; the loss of cognitive function that interferes with daily life and activities.
148
Denture
A removable replacement for missing teeth.
149
Detoxification
The process of removing a toxic substance from the body.
150
Development
Changes in mental, emotional, and social function.
151
Developmental disability
A severe and chronic disability that involves a mental or physical impairment or both.
152
Developmental task
A skill that must be completed during a stage of development for development to continue.
153
Diabetic foot ulcer
An open wound on the foot caused by complications from diabetes.
154
Dialysis
The process of removing waste products from the blood.
155
Diaphoresis
Profuse (excessive) sweating.
156
Diastole
The period of heart muscle relaxation; the heart is at rest.
157
Diastolic pressure
The pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest.
158
Digestion
The process that breaks down food physically and chemically so it can be absorbed for use by the cells.
159
Dilate
To expand or open wider.
160
Disability
Any lost, absent, or impaired physical or mental function.
161
Disaster
A sudden, catastrophic event in which people are injured and killed and property is destroyed.
162
Discharge
Official departure of a person from a health care setting.
163
Discipline
Any action taken by the agency to punish or penalize a patient or resident.
164
Discomfort
Discomfort is a feeling of slight pain, unease, or distress.
165
Discrimination
Unjust treatment based on age, race, gender, and other personal qualities.
166
Disinfectant
The process of killing pathogens.
167
Distal
The part farthest from the center or from the point of attachment.
168
Distraction
To focus the person's attention on something unrelated to pain.
169
Dorsal
Means the back side of the body or an organ. For example, the dorsal fin of a fish is on its back (Posterior).
170
Dorsal recumbent position
The back-lying or supine position; the supine position with the legs together (dorsal means the back of something; recumbent means to lie down); horizontal recumbent position.
171
Dorsiflexion
Bending the toes and foot up at the ankle.
172
Drawsheet
A small sheet placed over the middle of the bottom sheet.
173
Dysphagia
Difficulty (dys) swallowing (phagia).
174
Dyspnea
Difficult, labored, or painful (dys) breathing (pnea).
175
Eupnea
Means normal, effortless breathing. The way you breathe when you're resting and relaxed.
Easy way to remember
Think of "Eu-" as "easy" and "-pnea" as breathing → "Easy breathing" = eupnea!
176
Dysrhythmia
An abnormal (dys) heart rhythm (rhythmia); arrhythmia.
177
Dysuria
Painful or difficult (dys) urination (uria); burning on urination.
178
Early morning care
Routine care given before breakfast; AM care.
179
Edema
The swelling of body tissues with water.
180
Elder abuse
Any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person to an older adult that causes harm or serious risk of harm.
181
Elective surgery
Surgery done by choice to improve life or well-being.
182
Electrical shock
When electrical current passes through the body.
183
Electrolytes
Minerals dissolved in water.
184
Electronic health
record (EHR)
An electronic version of a person's medical record; electronic medical record.
185
Elopement
When a patient or resident leaves the agency without staff knowledge.
186
Embolus
An embolus is something that travels through the bloodstream and gets stuck, blocking blood flow.
187
Emergency surgery
Surgery done at once to save life or function.
188
Emesis
Means vomiting.
🔹 Easy way to remember:
Think of "Messes" → Emesis creates a mess when someone vomits! 🤢
189
Enabler
An enabler helps a patient do things on their own.
Examples:
A bed rail that helps a patient sit up
A walking frame or grab bar in the bathroom
A special spoon that makes self-feeding easier
190
End-of-life care
The support and care given during the time surrounding death.
191
End-of-shift report
A report that the nurse gives at the end of
the shift to the on-coming shift; change-of-shift report.
192
Endorsement
A state recognizes the certificate, license, or registration issued by another state; reciprocity or equivalency.
193
Enema
The introduction of fluid into the rectum and lower colon.
194
Enteral nutrition
Giving nutrients into the gastro intestinal(GI) tract (enteral) through a feeding tube.
195
Entrapment
Getting caught, trapped, or entangled in spaces created by the bed rails, the mattress, the bed frame, the head-board, or the foot-board.
196
Enuresis
Involuntary loss or leakage of urine during sleep; bed-wetting.
🔹 Easy way to remember:
Think of "E-nuresis" as "Eh, new sheets!"—because bedwetting means you might need new sheets! 🛏️🚰
197
Epidermal stripping
Removing the epidermis (outer skin layer) as tape is removed from the skin.
198
Episiotomy
A surgical cut made in the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) during childbirth to help with delivery.
🔹 Easy way to remember:
Think "Epi" (upon) + "siotomy" (cutting) → A cut made during childbirth to help the baby come out. 👶✂️
199
Equivalency
Means being equal in value, function, or meaning, even if not identical.
🔹 Easy way to remember:
Think of two different jobs that pay the same salary—they're not the same job, but they have equivalent value! ⚖️💰
200
Erectile dysfunction (ED)
The inability of the male to have or maintain an erection.
201
Ergonomics
The science of designing a job to fit the worker; ergo means work, nomos means law.
🔹 Easy way to remember:
Think of "Ergo" (work) + "nomics" (rules/laws) → Rules for comfortable working! 🪑💻😌
202
Eschar
Thick, leathery dead tissue that may be loose or adhered to the skin; it is often black or brown.
🔹 Easy way to remember:
Think of "char" in eschar—it looks like charred, black, or hard skin after a severe burn. 🔥🩹
203
Evaluation
To measure if goals in the planning step were met.
204
Evening care
Care given in the evening at bedtime; PM care.
205
Excoriation
Loss of the epidermis (top skin layer) caused by scratching or when skin rubs against skin, clothing, or other material.
206
Expressive aphasia
Difficulty expressing or sending out thoughts through speech or writing; Broca's aphasia.
207
Extension
Straightening a body part.
208
External rotation
Turning the joint outward.
209
Fainting
The sudden loss of consciousness from an inadequate blood supply to the brain; syncope.
210
False imprisonment
Unlawful restraint or restriction of a person's freedom of movement.
211
Febrile
With a fever.
212
Fecal impaction
The prolonged retention and buildup of feces in the rectum.
213
Fecal incontinence
The inability to control the passage of feces and flatus through the anus.
214
Feces
The semi-solid mass of waste products in the colon that is expelled through the anus; stool or stools.
215
Fever
Elevated body temperature.
216
First aid
The emergency care given to an ill or injured person before medical help arrives.
217
Flashback
Reliving the trauma over and over in thoughts during the day and in nightmares during sleep.
218
Flatulence
The excessive formation of gas or air in the stomach and intestines.
219
Flatus
Gas or air passed through the anus.
220
Flexion
Bending a body part.
221
Flow rate
The number of drops per minute (g /min) or milliliters per hour (mL/hr).
222
Foley catheter
Indwelling catheter.
223
Footdrop
The foot falls down at the ankle; permanent plantar flexion.
224
Fowler's position
A semi-sitting position; the head of the bed is raised between 45 and 60 degrees.
225
Fracture
A broken bone.
226
Frostbite
An injury to the body caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues.
227
Full visual privacy
Having the means to be completely free from public view while in bed.
228
Functional incontinence
The person has bladder control but cannot use the toilet in time.
229
Functional nursing
A nursing care pattern focusing on tasks and jobs; each nursing team member is assigned certain tasks and jobs.
230
Gait belt
Transfer belt.
230
Gangrene
A condition in which there is death of tissue.
231
Garment
An item of clothing.
232
Gastrostomy tube
A feeding tube inserted through a surgically created opening (stomy) in the stomach (gastro); stomach tube.
233
Gavage
The process of giving a tube feeding.
234
Gender identity
A person's sense or feelings of being male,female, a combination of male and female, or neither male nor female.
234
General anesthesia
A treatment with certain drugs that produces a deep sleep and the absence of all sensation, especially pain.
235
Genupectoral position
Knee-chest position (genu means knee; pectoral refers to the chest).
236
Geriatrics
The field of medicine concerned with the problems and diseases of old age and older persons; the care of aging people.
237
Gerontology
The study of the aging process.
238
Global aphasia
Difficulty expressing or sending out thoughts and difficulty understanding language; mixed aphasia.
239
Glucometer
A device for measuring (meter) blood glucose (gluco); glucose meter.
240
Glucosuria
Sugar (glucose) in the urine (uria).
241
Graduate
A measuring container for fluid.
242
Groin
Where a thigh and the abdomen meet.
243
Ground
That which carries leaking electricity to the earth and away from an electrical item.
244
Guided imagery
Creating and focusing on a relaxing image.
245
Hallucination
Seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling, or tasting something that is not real.
246
Harassment
To trouble, torment, offend, or worry a person by one's behavior or comments.
247
Hazard
Any thing in the person's setting that could cause injury or illness.
248
Hazardous chemical
Any chemical that is a physical hazard or a health hazard.
249
Healthcare-associated infection
(HAI)
An infection that develops in a person cared for in any setting where health care is given; the infection is related to receiving health care.
250
Health team
The many health care workers whose skills and knowledge focus on the person's total care; interdisciplinary health care team.
251
Heartburn
A burning sensation in the chest or throat; acid reflux.
252
Hematoma
A swelling (oma) that contains blood (hemat).
253
Hematuria
Blood (hemat) in the urine (uria).
254
Hemiplegia
Paralysis (plegia) on 1 side (hemi)of the body.
255
Hemoglobin
The substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen and gives blood its red color.
256
Hemoptysis
Bloody (hemo) sputum (ptysis means to spit).
257
Hemorrhage
The excessive loss (rrhage) of blood (hemo) in a short time.
258
Hemothorax
Blood (hemo) in the pleural space (thorax).
259
Heterosexual
A person who is attracted to members of the other sex.
260
High-Fowler's position
A sem-sitting position; the head of the bed is raised 60 to 90 degrees.
261
Hirsutism
Excessive body hair.
262
Holism
A concept that considers the whole person; the whole person has physical, social, psychological, and spiritual parts that are woven together and cannot be separated.
263
Horizontal recumbent position
Dorsal recumbent position.
264
Hormone
A chemical substance secreted by the
endocrine glands into the bloodstream.
265
Hospice
A health care agency or program that promotes comfort and quality of life for the dying person and his or her family.
266
Hospital bed system
The bed frame and its parts—mattress, bed rails, head- and foot-boards, and bed attachments.
267
Hyperextension
Excessive straightening of a body part.
268
Hyperglycemia
High (hyper) sugar (glyc) in the blood (emia).
269
Hypertension
High blood pressure.
270
Hyperventilation
Breathing (ventilation) is rapid (hyper) and deeper than normal.
271
Hypoglycemia
Low (hypo) sugar (glyc) in the blood (emia).
272
Hypotension
Low blood pressure.
273
Hypothermia
Abnormally low (hypo) body temperature (thermia).
274
Hypoventilation
Breathing (ventilation) is slow (hypo), shallow, and sometimes irregular.
275
Hypoxemia
A reduced amount (hypo) of oxygen (ox) in the blood (emia).
276
Hypoxia
Cells do not have enough (hypo) oxygen (oxia).
277
Ileostomy
A surgically created opening (stomy) between the ileum (small intestine [ileo]) and the body's surface.
278
Immunity
Protection against a disease or condition; theperson will not get or be affected by the disease.
279
Implementation
To perform or carry out nursing interventions (nursing measures, nursing actions, nursing tasks) in the care plan; see “nursing process”.
280
Incident
Any event that has harmed or could harm a patient, resident, visitor, or staff member.
281
Incision
A cut produced surgically by a sharp instrument; it creates an opening into an organ or body space.
282
Infancy
The first year of life.
282
Indwelling catheter
A catheter left in the bladder so urine drains constantly into a drainage bag; retention or Foley catheter.
283
Infection
A disease state resulting from the invasion and growth of microbes in the body.
284
Infection control
Practices and procedures that prevent the spread of infection.
285
Infestation
Being in or on a host.
286
Informed consent
The process by which a person receives and understands information about a treatment or procedure and is able to decide if he or she will receive it.
287
Inherited
That which is passed down from parents to children.
288
Insomnia
A chronic condition in which the person cannot sleep or stay asleep all night.
289
Intact skin
Normal skin and skin layers without damage or breaks.
290
Intake
The amount of fluid taken in; input.
291
Intellectual disability
Involves severe limits in intellectual function and adaptive behavior occurring before age 18.
292
Internal rotation
Turning the joint inward.
293
Intimate partner violence (IPV)
Physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, or psychological aggression by a current or former partner.
294
Intravenous (IV) therapy
Giving fluids through a needle or catheter inserted into a vein; IV and IV infusion.
295
Intubation
Inserting an artificial airway.
296
Invasion of privacy
Violating a person's right not to have his or her name, photo, or private affairs exposed or made public without giving consent.
297
Involuntary seclusion
Separating a person from others against his or her will, keeping the person to a certain area, or keeping the person away from his or her room without consent.
298
Jaundice
Yellowish color of the skin or whites of the eyes.
299
Jejunostomy tube
A feeding tube inserted into a surgically created opening (stomy) in the jejunum of the small intestine.
300
Job application
An agency's official form listing questions that require factual answers from the person seeking employment; employment form.
301
Job description
A document that describes what the agency expects you to do.
302
Job interview
When an employer asks a job applicant questions about his or her education and career.
303
Joint
The point at which 2 or more bones meet to allow movement.
304
Ketone
A substance appearing in urine from the rapid breakdown of fat for energy; acetone, ketone body.
305
Knee-chest position
The person kneels and rests the body on the knees and chest; the head is turned to 1 side, the arms are above the head or flexed at the elbows, the back is straight, and the body is flexed about 90 degrees at the hips; genupectoral position.
306
Kussmaul respirations
Very deep and rapid respirations.
307
Laceration
An open wound with torn tissues and jagged edges.
308
Laryngeal mirror
An instrument used to examine the mouth, teeth, and throat.
309
Lateral
Away from the mid-line; at the side of the body or body part.
310
Lateral position
The person lies on 1 side or the other; side lying position.
311
Lateral transfer
When a person moves between 2 horizontal surfaces.
312
Libel
Making false statements in print, in writing (including email and text messages), through pictures or drawings, through broadcast (radio, TV, or video), posted on-line on websites, or through video sites and social media sites.
313
Lice
Pediculosis – A lice infestation on the human body, causing itching and irritation.
🔹 "Pedi-" → Sounds like "pedestrian" (walking), imagine tiny lice walking on your skin.
🔹 "-cul-" → Think of "crawl", because lice crawl around.
🔹 "-osis" → Means a medical condition or infestation.
👉 Pediculosis = A condition where tiny lice crawl on you! 🪳
314
Licensed practical nurse (LPN)
A nurse who has completed a practical nursing program and has passed a licensing test; called licensed vocational nurse (LVN) in California and Texas.
315
Lithotomy position
The woman lies on her back with the hips at the edge of the exam table, her knees are flexed, her hips are externally rotated, and her feet are in stirrups.
316
Local anesthesia
The loss of sensation, produced by a drug, in a small area.
317
Lochia
The vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth.
318
Logrolling
Turning the person as a unit, in alignment, with 1 motion.
319
Low vision
Vision loss that cannot be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, drugs, or surgery; vision loss interferes with every-day activities.
320
Lymphedema
A buildup of lymph in the tissues causing edema (swelling).
321
Malignant tumor
A tumor that invades and destroys nearby tissues and can spread to other body parts; cancer.
322
Malpractice
Negligence by a professional person.
323
Mechanical ventilation
Using a machine to move air into and out of the lungs.
324
Medial
At or near the middle or mid-line of the body or body
part.
325
Medical asepsis
Practices used to reduce the number of microbes and prevent their spread from 1 person or place to another
person or place; clean technique.
326
Medical record
The legal account of a person's condition and response to treatment and care; chart or clinical record.
327
Medical symptom
An indication or characteristic of a physical or psychological condition.
328
Medication reminder
Reminding the person to take drugs, observing them being taken as prescribed, and recording that they were taken.
329
Melena
A black, tarry stool.
330
Menarche
The first menstruation and the start of menstrual cycles.
331
Mental health
Involves a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
331
Menopause
The time when menstruation stops and menstrual cycles end; there has been at least 1 year without a menstrual
period.
331
Menstruation
The process in which the lining of the uterus (endometrium) breaks up and is discharged from the body through the vagina.
332
Mental health disorder
A serious illness that can affect a person's thinking, mood, behavior, function, and ability to relate to others; mental illness, psychiatric disorder.
333
Metabolism
How the body uses nutrients to provide energy and maintain body functions.
334
Metastasis
The spread of cancer to other body parts.
335
Microorganism
A small (micro) living thing (organism) seen only with a microscope; microbe.
336
Milestone
A behavior or skill that occurs in a stage of development.
337
Misappropriation
The dishonest use of property.
338
Mite
A very small spider-like organism.
339
Mixed aphasia
A mix of global aphasia (severe) and Broca’s aphasia (non-fluent). Trouble speaking & understanding, but not as extreme as global aphasia.
Easy way to remember:
"Stuck in the Middle" – speech is slow, understanding is weak, and reading/writing are hard. Think of a frozen screen—the words are there but won’t load. Use gestures, visuals, and patience to help communication.
340
Mixed incontinence
The combination of stress incontinence and urge incontinence.
341
Mole
A brown, tan, or black spot on the skin that is flat or raised and round or oval.
342
Morbid obesity
Weighing 100 pounds or more over one's normal weight.
343
Morning care
Care given after breakfast; hygiene measures are more thorough at this time.
344
Musculo skeletal disorders (MSDs)
Injuries and disorders of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and cartilage.
345
Nasal speculum
An instrument (speculum means mirror) used to examine the inside of the nose (nasal).
346
Naso-enteral tube
A feeding tube inserted through the nose(naso) into the small bowel (enteral).
347
Naso-gastric (NG) tube
A feeding tube inserted through the nose (naso) into the stomach (gastro).
348
Need
Something necessary or desired for maintaining life and mental well-being.
349
Negligence
An unintentional wrong in which a person did not act in a reasonable and careful manner and a person or the person's property was harmed.
350
Nocturia
Frequent urination (uria) at night (noc).
351
Non-pathogen
A microbe that does not usually cause an infection.
352
Nonverbal communication
Communication that does not use words.
353
Normal flora
Normal flora (also called microbiota) are the good bacteria and microorganisms that naturally live on and inside the body, helping with digestion, immunity, and skin protection. Think of them as helpful roommates—they keep harmful germs in check and support overall health! 🚀
354
Nursing assistant
A person who has passed a nursing assistant training and competency evaluation program (NATCEP); performs delegated nursing tasks under the supervision of a licensed nurse.
355
Nursing diagnosis
It is a clinical judgment about a patient's response to health conditions, guiding nursing care. It includes three parts:
1️⃣ Problem (What’s wrong?) – e.g., Impaired Mobility
2️⃣ Cause (Why?) – e.g., Due to muscle weakness
3️⃣ Symptoms (How do we know?) – e.g., As evidenced by difficulty walking
💡 Example: "Impaired Skin Integrity related to prolonged immobility as evidenced by a pressure ulcer on the sacrum."
355
Nursing care plan
A written guide about the person's nursing care; care plan.
356
Nursing intervention
An action or measure taken by the nursing team to help the person reach a goal; nursing action, nursing measure, nursing task.
357
Nursing process
The method nurses use to plan and deliver nursing care; its 5 steps are assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.
358
Nursing task
Nursing care or a nursing function, procedure, skill, or activity.
359
Nursing team
Those who provide nursing care—RNs, LPNs/LVNs, and nursing assistants.
360
Nutrition
The processes involved in the ingestion, digestion,
absorption, and use of food and fluids by the body.
361
Obesity
Having an excess amount of total body fat; body weight is 20% or more above what is normal for the person's height and age.
362
Objective data
Information that is seen, heard, felt, or smelled by an observer; signs.
363
Observation
Using the sense of sight, hearing, touch, and smell to collect information.
364
Obsession
A frequent, upsetting, and unwanted thought, idea, or image.
365
Obstetrics
The field of medicine concerned with the care of women during pregnancy, labor, and childbirth and for 6 to 8 weeks after birth.
366
Oliguria
Scant amount (olig) of urine (uria); less than 500 mL in 24 hours.
367
Ombudsman
Someone who supports or promotes the needs and interests of another person.
368
Open fracture
The broken bone has pierced the skin; compound fracture.
369
Ophthalmoscope
A lighted instrument (scope) used to examine the internal eye (ophthalmo) structures.
370
Opposition
Touching the thumb to the opposite fingers—is an important neuromuscular assessment tool.
371
Optimal level of function
A person's highest potential for mental and physical performance.
372
Oral hygiene
The practices that promote healthy tissues and structures of the mouth; mouth care.
373
Organ
Groups of tissue with the same function.
374
Orthopnea
Breathing (pnea) deeply and comfortably only when sitting (ortho).
375
Orthopneic position
Sitting up (ortho) and leaning over a table to breathe (pneic).
376
Orthostatic hypotension
It is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, causing dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. It occurs due to dehydration, medications, neurological disorders, or prolonged bed rest. Diagnosis involves measuring BP in different positions, and management includes slow position changes, hydration, and, if needed, compression stockings or medication; postural hypotension.
377
Orthotic
A device used to support a muscle, promote a certain motion, or correct a deformity; ortho means to straighten.
378
Ostomy
A surgically created opening that connects an internal organ to the body's surface; see “colostomy” and “ileostomy”.
379
Otoscope
A lighted instrument (scope) used to examine the external ear (oto) and the eardrum (tympanic membrane).
380
Output
The amount of fluid.
381
Over-flow incontinence
Small amounts of urine leak from a full bladder.
382
Oxygen concentration
The amount (percent [%]) of hemoglobin containing oxygen.
383
Pack
Wrapping a body part with a wet or dry application.
384
Padded waterproof drawsheet
A drawsheet made of an absorbent top and waterproof bottom used to protect the mattress and bottom linens from dampness and soiling.
385
Pain
To ache, hurt, or be sore; discomfort.
386
Palliative care
Care to relieve or reduce the intensity of uncomfortable symptoms without producing a cure.
387
Panic
An intense and sudden feeling of fear, anxiety, or dread.
388
Paralysis
Loss of muscle function, sensation, or both.
389
Paranoia
A disorder (para) of the mind (noia); false beliefs (delusions) and suspicion about a person or situation.
390
Paraphrasing
Restating the person's message in your own words.
391
Paraplegia
Paralysis in the legs and lower trunk (para means beyond; plegia means paralysis).
392
Parenteral nutrition
Giving nutrients through a catheter inserted into a vein; para means beyond; enteral relates to the bowel.
393
Patent
Open and unblocked.
394
Pathogen
A microbe that is harmful and can cause an infection.
395
Patient-focused care
A nursing care pattern; services are moved from departments to the bedside.
396
Pediatrics
The field of medicine concerned with the growth, development, and care of children—newborns to teenagers.
397
Pediculosis
Infestation with wingless insects that feed on blood; lice.
398
Pediculosis capitis
Infestation of the scalp (capitis) with lice.
399
Pediculosis corporis
Infestation of the body (corporis) with lice.
400
Pediculosis pubis
Infestation of the pubic (pubis) hair with lice.
401
Penetrating wound
An open wound that breaks the skin and enters a body area, organ, or cavity.
402
Percussion hammer
An instrument used to tap body parts to test reflexes (percussion means to strike hard); reflex hammer.
403
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube
A feeding tube inserted into the stomach (gastro) through a small incision (stomy) made through (per) the skin (cutaneous); a lighted instrument (scope) is used to see inside a body cavity or organ (endo).
404
Perineal care
Cleaning the genital and anal areas; pericare.
405
Peristalsis
Involuntary muscle contractions in the digestive system that move food down the esophagus through the alimentary canal; the alternating contraction and relaxation of intestinal muscles.
406
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
The clothing or equipment worn by the staff for protection against a hazard.
407
Personality
The set of attitudes, values, behaviors, and traits of a person.
408
Person's unit
The space, furniture, and equipment used by the person in the agency .
409
Phantom pain
Pain that seems to come from a body part that is no longer there.
410
Phobia
An intense fear of something that has li le or no real danger.
411
Physical restraint
Any manual method or physical or mechanical device, material, or equipment a ached to or near the person's body that he or she cannot remove easily and that restricts freedom of movement or normal access to one's body.
412
Pivot
To turn one's body from a set standing position.
413
Planning
Setting priorities and goals.
414
Plantar flexion
The foot (plantar) is bent (flexion); bending the foot down at the ankle.
415
Plaque
A thin film that sticks to the teeth; it contains saliva, microbes, and other substances.
416
Pleural effusion
The escape and collection of fluid (effusion) in the pleural space.
The pleural space is the thin, fluid-filled gap between the visceral pleura (which covers the lungs) and the parietal pleura (which lines the chest wall). It allows smooth lung expansion and contraction during breathing by reducing friction. Excess fluid or air in this space can lead to conditions like pleural effusion or pneumothorax.
417
Pneumonia
Inflammation and infection of lung tissue.
418
Pneumothorax
Air (pneumo) in the pleural space (thorax).
419
Poison
Any substance harmful to the body when ingested,
inhaled, injected, or absorbed through the skin.
420
Pollutant
A harmful chemical or substance in the air or water.
421
Polyuria
Abnormally large amounts (poly) of urine (uria).
422
Position change alarm
Any physical or electronic device that monitors a person's movement and alerts staff of movement.
423
Posterior
At or toward the back of the body or body part; dorsal.
424
Post-mortem care
Care of the body after (post) death (mortem).
425
Post-operative
After (post) surgery; post-op.
426
Postpartum
After (post) childbirth (partum).
427
Postural hypotension
Abnormally low (hypo) blood pressure when the person suddenly stands up (postural); orthostatic hypotension.
428
Posture
Body alignment.
429
Prefix
A word element at the beginning of a word; it changes the meaning of the word.
430
Prenatal care
The health care a woman receives while pregnant.
431
Pre-operative
Before (pre) surgery; pre-op.
432
Pressure injury
Localized damage to the skin and underlying soft tissue; the injury is usually over a bony prominence or related to a medical or other device and results from pressure or pressure in combination with shear.
433
Primary caregiver
The person mainly responsible for providing or assisting with the child's basic needs.
434
Primary nursing
A nursing care pattern; an RN is responsible for the person's total care.
435
Priority
The most important thing at the time.
436
Professional boundary
That which separates helpful actions and behaviors from those that are not helpful.
437
Professionalism
Following laws, being ethical, having good work ethics, and having the skills to do your work.
438
Professional sexual misconduct
An act, behavior, or comment that is sexual in nature.
439
Progress note
Describes the care given and the person's response and progress.
440
Pronation
Turning the joint downward.
441
Prone position
The person lies on the abdomen with the head turned to 1 side.
442
Prosthesis
An artificial replacement for a missing body part.
443
Protected health information
Identifying information and information about the person's health care that is maintained or sent in any form (paper, electronic, oral).
444
Proximal
The part nearest to the center or to the point of attachment.
445
Psychiatry
The field of medicine concerned with mental health disorders.
446
Psychosis
A state of severe mental impairment.
447
Puberty
The period when reproductive organs begin to function and secondary sex characteristics appear.
448
Pulse
The beat of the heart felt at an artery as a wave of blood passes through the artery.
449
Pulse deficit
The difference between the apical and radial pulse rates.
450
Pulse oximetry
Measures (metry) the oxygen (oxi) concentration in arterial blood.
451
Pulse rate
The number of heartbeats or pulses in 1 minute.
452
Puncture wound
An open wound made by a sharp object.
453
Purulent drainage
Thick green, yellow, or brown drainage.
454
Pyuria
Pus (py) in the urine (uria).
455
Quadriplegia
Paralysis in the arms, legs, and trunk (quad means 4; plegia means paralysis); tetraplegia.
456
Radiating pain
Pain felt at the site of tissue damage and that spreads to
other areas.
457
Range of motion (ROM)
The movement of a joint to the extent possible without causing pain.
458
Reasonable accommodation
To assist or change a position or workplace to allow an employee to do his or her job despite having a disability.
459
Receptive aphasia
Difficulty understanding language; Wernicke's aphasia.
460
Referred pain
Pain from a body part that is felt in another body part.
460
Recording
The written account of care and observations; charting, documentation.
461
Reflex
The body's response (function or movement) to a stimulus; an involuntary movement.
462
Reflex incontinence
Urine is lost at predictable intervals when a specific amount of urine is in the bladder.
463
Regional anesthesia
The loss of sensation, produced by a drug, in a large area.
464
Registered nurse (RN)
A nurse who has completed a 2-, 3-, or 4-year nursing program and has passed a licensing test.
465
Regurgitation
The backward flow of stomach contents into the mouth.
466
Rehabilitation
The process of restoring the person to his or her highest possible level of physical, psychological, social, and economic function.
467
Reincarnation
The belief that the spirit or soul is reborn in another human body or in another form of life.
468
Relaxation
To be free from mental and physical stress.
469
Remove easily
The manual method, device, material, or equipment used to restrain the person that can be removed intentionally by the person in the same manner it was applied by the staff.
470
Reporting
The oral account of care and observations.
471
Representative
A person with the legal right to act on the patient's or resident's behalf when he or she cannot do so for himself or herself.
472
Respiratory arrest
When breathing stops; breathing stops but heart action continues for several minutes.
472
Respiration
The process of supplying cells with oxygen and removing carbon dioxide from them; breathing air into (inhalation) and out of (exhalation) the lungs.
473
Respiratory depression
Slow, weak respirations at a rate of fewer than 12 per minute.
474
Rest
To be calm, at ease, and relaxed with no anxiety or stress.
475
Restorative aide
A nursing assistant with special training in restorative nursing and rehabilitation skills.
476
Restorative nursing care
Care that helps persons regain health and strength for safe and independent living.
477
Resuscitate
To revive from apparent death or unconsciousness using emergency measures.
478
Retention catheter
Also called an indwelling catheter, is a flexible tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine continuously.
479
reverse Trendelenburg's position
The head of the bed is raised and the foot of the bed is lowered.
479
Rigor mortis
The stiffness or rigidity (rigor) of skeletal muscles that occurs after death (mortis).
480
Root
A word element containing the basic meaning of the word.
481
Rotation
Turning the joint.
482
Routine nursing task
A nursing task that is part of a nursing assistant’s routine job description and commonly assigned to the nursing assistant; a nursing task that was learned in a nursing assistant training and competency evaluation program (NATCEP).
483
Sanguineous drainage
It is a type of wound drainage that is bright red and consists mostly of blood, indicating active bleeding. It is common in fresh wounds and immediately after surgery or injury. Drainage (sero), Blood-tinged (sanguineous).
484
Serous drainage
Clear, watery fluid (serum).
485
Service plan
A written plan listing the services needed, the help needed, and who provides services.
486
Sex
Physical interactions between people involving the body and reproductive organs.
487
Sexual orientation
Emotional, romantic, and physical attraction to men, women, or both sexes.
488
Sexuality
The physical, emotional, social, cultural, and spiritual factors that affect a person's feelings, attitudes, and behaviors about one's gender identity and sexual behavior.
489
Shear
When layers of the skin rub against each other; when the skin remains in place and underlying tissues move and stretch, tearing underlying capillaries and blood vessels and causing tissue damage.
490
Shearing
When the skin sticks to a surface while muscles slide in the direction the body is moving.
491
Shock
Results when tissues and organs do not get enough blood.
492
Side-lying position
Lateral position.
493
Signs
Also calles objective data refers to measurable, observable facts collected during patient assessment. This includes vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, heart rate, temperature), physical examination findings, lab results, imaging reports, wound appearance, and observed behaviors. It is different from subjective data, which consists of what the patient reports (e.g., pain level, feelings).
494
Simple fracture
Also called a closed fracture, is a broken bone that does not pierce the skin. It may cause pain, swelling, and bruising but has a lower risk of infection compared to an open fracture. Treatment typically includes immobilization with a cast, splint, or brace, and in some cases, surgery.
495
Sims' position
A left side-lying position in which the upper leg (right leg) is sharply flexed so it is not on the lower leg (left leg) and the lower arm (left arm) is behind the person; semi-prone side position.
496
Skin breakdown
Changes or damage to intact skin—normal skin and skin layers.
497
Skin tear
A break or rip in the outer layers of the skin; the epidermis (top skin layer) separates from the underlying tissues.
498
Slander
Making false statements through the spoken word, sounds, sign language, or gestures.
499
Sleep
A state of reduced consciousness, reduced voluntary muscle activity, and lowered metabolism.
500
Sleep apnea
Pauses (a) in breathing (pnea) that occur during sleep.
501
Sleep deprivation
The amount and quality of sleep are not adequate, causing reduced function and alertness.
502
Sleepwalking
When the person leaves the bed and walks about while sleeping.
503
Slough
Dead tissue that is shed from the skin; it is usually light colored, soft, and moist; may be stringy at times.
504
Spastic
Uncontrolled contractions of skeletal muscles.
505
Sphygmomanometer
A cuff and measuring device used to measure blood pressure (sphygmo means pulse; manometer is a device for measuring pressure).
506
Spore
A bacterium protected by a hard shell.
507
Sputum
Mucus from the respiratory system when expectorated (expelled) through the mouth.
508
Stage
A period of time (age range) in which a person learns certain skills.
509
Standard of care
The skills, care, and judgments required by a health team member under similar conditions.
510
Stasis ulcer
A stasis ulcer (also called a venous ulcer) is a slow-healing wound that develops due to poor blood circulation, usually in the lower legs. It is caused by chronic venous insufficiency, leading to swelling, skin discoloration, and tissue breakdown. Treatment includes compression therapy, wound care, elevation, and managing underlying venous disease.
511
Sterile
The absence of all microbes.
512
Sterile field
A work area free of all pathogens and nonpathogens (including spores).
513
Sterile technique
Sterile technique (also called aseptic technique) is a set of practices used to eliminate all microorganisms and prevent infection during medical procedures. It includes hand hygiene, using sterile gloves, gowns, masks, sterile instruments, and maintaining a sterile field. It is essential in surgery, catheter insertion, wound care, and other invasive procedures.
514
Sterilization
The process of destroying all microbes.
515
Stethoscope
An instrument used to listen to the sounds produced by the heart, lungs, and other body organs.
516
Stimulus
Anything that excites or causes a body part to function, become active, or respond.
517
Stoma
A surgically created opening seen on the body's surface; see “colostomy” and “ileostomy”.
518
Stomatitis
Inflammation (itis) of the mouth (stomat).
519
Straight catheter
A catheter that drains the bladder and then is removed.
520
Stress
The response or change in the body caused by any emotional, psychological, physical, social, or economic factor.
521
Stress incontinence
When urine leaks during exercise and certain movements that cause pressure on the bladder.
522
Stressor
The event or factor that causes stress.
523
Subjective data
Things a person tells you about that you cannot observe through your senses; symptoms.
524
Suction
The process of withdrawing or sucking up fluid (secretions).
525
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)
The heart stops suddenly and without warning; cardiac arrest.
526
Suffix
A word element at the end of a word; it changes the meaning of the word.
527
Suffocation
When breathing stops from the lack of oxygen.
528
Suicide contagion
Exposure to suicide or suicidal behaviors within one's family or one's peer group or through media reports of suicide.
529
Sundowning
Signs, symptoms, and behaviors of Alzheimer's disease (AD) increase during hours of darkness.
530
Supination
Turning the joint upward.
531
Supine position
The back-lying or dorsal recumbent position.
532
Suppository
A cone-shaped, solid drug that is inserted into a body opening; it melts at body temperature.
533
Supra-pubic catheter
A catheter surgically inserted into the bladder through an incision above (supra) the pubis bone (pubic).
534
Surgical asepsis
The practices used to remove all microbes; sterile technique.
535
Surgical site infection (SSI)
An infection that occurs after surgery in the body part where the surgery took place.
536
Survey
The formal review of an agency through the collection of facts and observations.
537
Surveyor
A person who collects information by observing and asking questions.
538
Syncope
A brief loss of consciousness; fainting.
539
System
Organs that work together to perform special functions.
540
Systole
The period of heart muscle contraction; the heart is pumping blood.
541
Systolic pressure
The pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts.
542
Tachycardia
A rapid (tachy) heart rate (cardia); more than 100 beats per minute.
543
Tachypnea
Rapid (tachy) breathing (pnea); respirations are more than 20 per minute.
544
Tartar
Hardened plaque.
545
Team nursing
A nursing care pattern; an RN leads a team of nursing staff; the RN decides the amount and kind of care each person needs.
546
Teamwork
Staff members work together as a group; each person does his or her part to give safe and effective care.
547
Teen dating violence (TDV)
The physical, sexual,psychological, or emotional violence within a dating relationship as well as stalking.
548
Terminal illness
An illness or injury from which the person will not likely recover.
549
Tetraplegia
“Quadriplegia” (tetra means 4; plegia means paralysis).
550
Thermometer
A device used to measure (meter) temperature (thermo).
551
Thrombus
A blood clot.
552
Tinnitus
A ringing, roaring, hissing, or buzzing sound in the ears or head.
553
Tissue
A group of cells with similar functions.
554
Tort
A wrong committed against a person or the person's property.
555
Tracheostomy
A surgically created opening (stomy) in the neck into the trachea (tracheo).
556
Transfer
How a person moves to and from a surface; moving the person to another health care setting; moving the person to a new room within the agency.
557
Transfer belt
A device applied around the waist and used to support a person who is unsteady or disabled; gait belt.
558
Transgender
Describes people who express their sexuality or gender identity in ways that do not fit with their biological
sex (male, female).
559
Transient incontinence
Temporary or occasional incontinence that is reversed when the cause is treated.
560
Treatment
The care provided to maintain or restore health, improve function, or relieve symptoms.
561
Trendelenburg's position
The head of the bed is lowered and the foot of the bed is raised.
562
Tumor
A new growth of abnormal cells that is benign or malignant.
563
Tuning fork
An instrument vibrated to test hearing.
564
Ulcer
A shallow or deep crater-like sore of the skin or mucous membrane.
565
Umbilical cord
The structure that connects the mother and fetus (unborn baby); it carries blood, oxygen, and nutrients from the mother to the fetus.
566
Unaffected side
The side of the body opposite the affected side; strong side.
566
Unavoidable pressure injury
A pressure injury that occurs despite efforts to prevent one through proper use of the nursing
process.
567
Uncircumcised
Foreskin covers the head of the penis.
568
Under-garment
An item of clothing worn next to the skin under clothing.
569
Urge incontinence
The loss of urine in response to a sudden, urgent need to void; the person cannot get to a toilet in time.
570
Urgent surgery
Surgery needed for health; it can be delayed for a few days .
571
Urinary diversion
A surgically created pathway for urine to leave the body.
572
Urinary frequency
Voiding at frequent intervals.
573
Urinary incontinence (UI)
The involuntary loss or leakage of urine.
574
Urinary retention
Not being able to completely empty the bladder.
575
Urinary urgency
The need to void at once.
576
Urination
The process of emptying urine from the bladder; voiding.
577
Urostomy
A surgically created opening (stomy) that connects to the urinary tract (uro).
578
Vaccination
Giving a vaccine to produce immunity against an infectious
disease.
579
Vaccine
A preparation containing dead or weakened microbes.
580
Vaginal speculum
An instrument (speculum) used to open the vagina (vaginal) to examine it and the cervix.
581
Vascular ulcer
Circulatory ulcer.
581
Vector
A carrier (animal, insect) that transmits disease.
582
Vehicle
Any substance that transmits microbes.
583
Vein
A blood vessel that returns blood to the heart.
584
Venous ulcer
An open sore on the lower legs or feet caused by poor venous blood flow; stasis ulcer.
585
Ventral
Refers to the front (anterior) part of the body.
586
Verbal communication
Communication that uses written or spoken words.
587
Vertigo
Dizziness.
588
Vital signs
Temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure; pulse oximetry and pain are included in some agencies.
589
Vomitus
Food and fluids expelled from the stomach through the mouth; emesis.
590
Vulnerable adult
A person 18 years old or older who has a disability or condition that makes him or her at risk to be wounded, attacked, or damaged.
591
Wernicke's aphasia
Receptive aphasia.
592
Will
A legal document of how a person wants property distributed after death.
593
Withdrawal syndrome
The physical and mental response after stopping or severely reducing use of a substance that was used regularly.
594
Word element
A part of a word.
595
Work ethics
Behavior in the workplace.
596
Workplace violence
Violent acts (including assault and threat of assault) directed toward persons at work or while on duty.
597
Dehiscence
Dehiscence is when a wound or surgical incision reopens after it has been closed.
🩹 Example:
If someone had abdominal surgery and the incision starts to split open days later, that's wound dehiscence.
598
Evisceration
The separation of the wound along with the protrusion of abdominal organs.
599
Post-operative ileus
The absence of normal intestinal (ileus) function from the lack of peristalsis after surgery.
600
Pulmonary embolism
A blood clot from a vein that travels (embolus) in the bloodstream until it lodges in a lung.
601
Hypovolemia
Inadequate (hypo) amount (vol) of blood (emia).
602
Hypovolemic shock
When organs and tissues do not get enough blood (shock) because of an inadequate (hypo) amount (vol) of blood (emia).
603
Thrombophlebitis
Blood clot (thrombo) causing inflammation (itis) of a vein (phleb).
