Andrick
Vocabulary on Medicine
1. Diagnosis
Explanation: The identification of a disease or condition based on symptoms and tests.
Examples:
● The doctor made a diagnosis of diabetes after reviewing the test results.
● The diagnosis was confirmed with an MRI scan.
2. Symptoms
Explanation: Signs or indications of a medical condition experienced by a patient.
Examples:
● Common symptoms of the flu include fever and cough.
● The patient reported symptoms like dizziness and headache.
3. Treatment
Explanation: The management and care given to a patient to combat a disease or
condition.
Examples:
● The treatment for hypertension includes medication and lifestyle changes.
● Chemotherapy is a common treatment for certain types of cancer.
4. Prognosis
Explanation: The forecast or prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease.
Examples:
● The prognosis for early-stage cancer is generally positive.
● The doctor gave a good prognosis for recovery after the surgery.
5. Medication
Explanation: A substance used to treat or manage medical conditions.
Examples:
● The patient was prescribed medication to lower blood pressure.
● Pain medication was administered to relieve post-operative discomfort.
6. Procedure
Explanation: A medical operation or series of actions conducted for diagnosis or
treatment.
Examples:
● The patient underwent a surgical procedure to remove the tumor.
● An endoscopy is a procedure used to examine the digestive tract.
7. Infection
Explanation: The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in the body, causing
illness.
Examples:
● An antibiotic was prescribed to treat the bacterial infection.
● The infection spread rapidly due to a lack of proper hygiene.
8. Chronic
Explanation: A condition that persists over a long period or is recurring frequently.
Examples:
● Chronic asthma requires ongoing management and treatment.
● She has been dealing with chronic back pain for years.
9. Acute
Explanation: A condition that comes on suddenly and is severe in nature but short-lived.
Examples:
● Acute appendicitis requires immediate surgical intervention.
● He experienced acute pain after the injury.
10. Emergency
Explanation: A serious, unexpected situation requiring immediate medical attention.
Examples:
● The patient was rushed to the emergency room after the accident.
● Anaphylactic shock is a medical emergency that requires swift treatment.
11. Allergy
Explanation: An overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is usually
harmless.
Examples:
● She has a peanut allergy and must avoid all foods containing nuts.
● Seasonal allergies can cause symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes.
12. Vaccination
Explanation: The administration of a vaccine to protect against specific diseases.
Examples:
● Vaccination against measles is important for children.
● The flu vaccination is recommended annually for elderly individuals.
13. Dosage
Explanation: The amount and frequency of a medication prescribed to be taken.
Examples:
● The dosage for the medication is 500 mg twice daily.
● Adjusting the dosage of insulin is necessary for managing diabetes.
14. Side Effect
Explanation: An unintended effect of a medication or treatment.
Examples:
● Common side effects of the medication include nausea and fatigue.
● The patient experienced dizziness as a side effect of the new drug.
15. Referral
Explanation: The process of directing a patient to a specialist or another healthcare
provider.
Examples:
● The primary care physician made a referral to a cardiologist.
● A referral to a nutritionist was made to help with dietary management.
16. Physical Examination
Explanation: The process of examining a patient’s body to assess health.
Examples:
● During the physical examination, the doctor checked the patient’s blood pressure.
● A thorough physical examination can help detect underlying health issues.
17. History
Explanation: A record of a patient's past health conditions and treatments.
Examples:
● The doctor reviewed the patient's medical history before making a diagnosis.
● A detailed family history is important for identifying genetic risks.
18. Vital Signs
Explanation: Measurements of essential body functions, including heart rate, blood
pressure, and temperature.
Examples:
● Vital signs were stable after the patient’s surgery.
● Monitoring vital signs helps assess the patient’s recovery progress.
19. Pathology
Explanation: The study of diseases, including their causes, effects, and diagnoses.
Examples:
● Pathology reports help confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
● The pathologist examines tissue samples to determine the disease.
20. Oncology
Explanation: The branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of
cancer.
Examples:
● The oncology department specializes in cancer treatment and research.
● She is receiving care from an oncologist for her breast cancer.
21. Surgery
Explanation: A medical procedure involving an incision with the goal of treating a
condition.
Examples:
● The surgeon performed a surgery to repair the damaged ligament.
● Appendectomy is a common surgery for removing the appendix.
22. Anesthesia
Explanation: The use of drugs to block sensation and pain during surgical procedures.
Examples:
● General anesthesia was administered before the operation.
● Local anesthesia numbed the area for a minor procedure.
23. Hemorrhage
Explanation: Excessive bleeding from blood vessels or tissue.
Examples:
● Internal hemorrhage required immediate surgical intervention.
● The patient experienced a hemorrhage after the accident.
24. Inflammation
Explanation: The body's response to injury or infection, often causing redness,
swelling, and pain.
Examples:
● The inflammation in the joint was treated with anti-inflammatory medication.
● Inflammation of the lungs can occur in respiratory infections.
25. Immunization
Explanation: The process of making an individual immune to a disease through
vaccination.
Examples:
● Immunization against polio is crucial for public health.
● The clinic offers immunization services for various childhood diseases.
26. Diagnosis
Explanation: The identification of a disease or condition from its signs and symptoms.
Examples:
● Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
● The diagnosis of the patient was confirmed through blood tests.
27. Prophylaxis
Explanation: Preventive treatment to prevent disease or complications.
Examples:
● Antibiotic prophylaxis was given before the surgery to prevent infection.
● Prophylaxis for malaria is advised for travelers to high-risk areas.
28. Biopsy
Explanation: A procedure to remove a sample of tissue for examination to diagnose
disease.
Examples:
● A biopsy was performed to check for cancerous cells.
● The results of the biopsy confirmed the presence of a benign tumor.
29. Chronic
Explanation: A condition that persists over a long period or is frequently recurring.
Examples:
● Chronic conditions require long-term management and follow-up.
● Chronic kidney disease requires ongoing medical care and monitoring.
30. Acute
Explanation: A condition that starts suddenly and is severe but often short-lived.
Examples:
● Acute bronchitis can develop after a cold and cause coughing.
● An acute allergic reaction needs immediate treatment.
31. Triage
Explanation: The process of determining the priority of patients' treatments based on
the severity of their condition.
Examples:
Triage is used in emergency situations to manage multiple patients.
The nurse performed triage to decide which patients needed urgent care.
32. Dehydration
Explanation: A condition caused by a loss of more fluids than the body takes in.
Examples:
● Dehydration can be caused by vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating.
● The patient was treated for dehydration with intravenous fluids.
33. Rehabilitation
Explanation: The process of helping a patient recover and regain abilities after illness
or injury.
Examples:
● Rehabilitation therapy was necessary after the stroke.
● Physical therapy is a key part of rehabilitation for post-surgery recovery.
34. Resuscitation
Explanation: The process of reviving someone from unconsciousness or apparent
death.
Examples:
● Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was administered to the patient.
● Successful resuscitation often requires prompt medical intervention.
35. Transfusion
Explanation: The process of transferring blood or blood products from one person to
another.
Examples:
● A blood transfusion was needed after the patient lost a significant amount of blood.
● Transfusion reactions are monitored closely during and after the procedure.
36. Epidemiology
Explanation: The study of how diseases spread and affect populations.
Examples:
● Epidemiology helps track the spread of infectious diseases.
● Public health strategies are often based on epidemiological research.
37. Genetics
Explanation: The study of heredity and the variation of inherited traits.
Examples:
● Genetics plays a role in understanding hereditary conditions like cystic fibrosis.
● Genetic counseling can help assess the risk of inherited diseases.
38. Chronic
Explanation: A condition that is persistent and long-lasting.
Examples:
● Chronic migraine requires long-term management strategies.
● Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition.
39. Hypothesis
Explanation: A proposed explanation for a medical condition that is tested through
research.
Examples:
● Researchers formed a hypothesis about the link between diet and heart disease.
● Clinical trials are conducted to test medical hypotheses.
40. Symptom
Explanation: A physical or mental feature that indicates a condition or disease.
Examples:
● Fever and cough are common symptoms of the flu.
● Nausea can be a symptom of food poisoning.
41. Treatment
Explanation: The management and care given to someone to combat a disease or
condition.
Examples:
● The treatment for the infection included antibiotics.
● Physical therapy was the recommended treatment for the injured knee.
42. Radiology
Explanation: The branch of medicine that uses imaging techniques to diagnose and treat
diseases.
Examples:
● X-rays are a common radiology tool for viewing bones.
● MRI scans are used to assess soft tissue injuries.
43. Anatomy
Explanation: The study of the structure of organisms and their parts.
Examples:
● Understanding human anatomy is crucial for surgeons.
● Anatomy classes often include dissection of cadavers.
44. Prescription
Explanation: A written order from a doctor for medication or treatment.
Examples:
● The doctor wrote a prescription for an antibiotic.
● She picked up her prescription for painkillers from the pharmacy.
45. Pharmacology
Explanation: The study of drugs and their effects on the body.
Examples: Pharmacology helps doctors understand how different medications work.
Knowledge of pharmacology is essential for prescribing accurate dosages.
46. Vaccine
Explanation: A biological preparation that provides immunity to a specific disease.
Examples:
● The flu vaccine is administered annually.
● Vaccines have been successful in eradicating smallpox.
47. Bacteria
Explanation: Microscopic single-celled organisms that can cause infections.
Examples:
Bacteria can lead to illnesses like strep throat.
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections.
48. Virus
Explanation: Microscopic infectious agents that replicate only inside living cells.
Examples:
● The common cold is caused by a virus.
● Vaccines can help prevent viral infections like measles.
49. Hormone
Explanation: Chemical messengers produced by glands that regulate various bodily
functions.
Examples:
● Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
● Thyroid hormones influence metabolism.
50. Cardiology
Explanation: The branch of medicine dealing with heart disorders.
Examples:
● Cardiology focuses on diseases like heart attacks.
● A cardiologist may perform an angioplasty to treat blocked arteries.
51. Endocrinology
Explanation: The study of hormones and the glands that produce them.
Examples:
● Endocrinology includes managing diabetes and thyroid disorders.
● An endocrinologist may adjust hormone replacement therapy.
52.Neurology
Explanation: The branch of medicine concerned with the nervous system and its
disorders.
Examples:
● Neurology covers conditions like epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease.
● Neurology examines the nervous systems
53.Trauma
Explanation: Physical injury or damage resulting from an external force.
Examples:
● Trauma care is essential for treating accident victims.
● The trauma surgeon operated on the patient with multiple fractures.
54.Hematology
Explanation: The branch of medicine that deals with blood and blood disorders.
Examples:
● Hematology includes diagnosing anemia and leukemia.
● The hematologist reviewed the blood test results.
55. Pulmonology
Explanation: The branch of medicine related to the respiratory system and its diseases.
Examples:
● Pulmonology involves treating asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD).
● The pulmonologist recommended a sleep study for sleep apnea.
56. Otolaryngology
Explanation: The branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the ear, nose, and throat.
Examples:
● Otolaryngology includes treating sinus infections and hearing loss.
● The ENT specialist performed a tonsillectomy.
57. Dermatology
Explanation: The branch of medicine focused on the skin and its diseases.
Examples:
● Dermatology includes treating acne and eczema.
● A dermatologist can perform skin biopsies to check for cancer.
58. Gastroenterology
Explanation: The branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders.
Examples:
● Gastroenterology involves treating conditions like ulcers and Crohn's disease.
● The doctor performed a colonoscopy to investigate gastrointestinal symptoms.
59. Urology
Explanation: The branch of medicine dealing with the urinary tract and male reproductive
organs.
Examples:
● Urology includes treatment for kidney stones and prostate issues.
● The urologist performed a cystoscopy to examine the bladder.
60. Nephrology
Explanation: The study and treatment of kidney disorders.
Examples:
● Nephrology involves managing chronic kidney disease.
● Dialysis is a common nephrological treatment for kidney failure.
61. Rheumatology
Explanation: The study of rheumatic diseases, which affect the joints and connective
tissues.
Examples:
● Rheumatology involves managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
● The rheumatologist prescribed medication to reduce joint inflammation.
62.Pediatrics
Explanation: The branch of medicine dealing with the care and treatment of children.
Examples:
● Pediatrics includes vaccinations and growth monitoring.
● The pediatrician examined the child's developmental milestones.
63. Geriatrics
Explanation: The branch of medicine focused on the health care of elderly people.
Examples:
● Geriatrics includes managing chronic diseases in older adults.
● The geriatrician assessed the patient's mobility and cognitive function.
64. Psychiatry
Explanation: The branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating mental
disorders.
Examples:
● Psychiatry includes treatment for depression and anxiety disorders.
● The psychiatrist recommended therapy and medication for the patient.
64. Immunity
Explanation: The body's ability to resist or fight off infection and disease.
Examples:
● Vaccination helps build immunity against certain diseases.
● A healthy immune system is crucial for fighting infections.
65. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Explanation: A test that records the electrical activity of the heart over time.
Examples:
● An ECG is used to diagnose arrhythmias and heart attacks.
● The doctor ordered an ECG to check for irregular heartbeats.
66. Ultrasound
Explanation: An imaging technique that uses sound waves to create images of internal
body structures.
Examples:
● Ultrasound is commonly used during pregnancy to view the fetus.
● The doctor used an ultrasound to examine the patient’s abdominal organs.
67. CT Scan (Computed Tomography)
Explanation: An imaging method that uses X-rays and computer technology to create
detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
Examples:
● A CT scan helps diagnose tumors and internal injuries.
● The patient underwent a CT scan to assess the extent of the injury.
68. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Explanation: An imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to
create detailed images of organs and tissues inside the body.
Examples:
● MRI is used to diagnose brain and spinal cord conditions.
● The neurologist ordered an MRI to investigate the cause of severe headaches.
69. X-Ray
Explanation: An imaging technique that uses radiation to view the internal structure of
the body, particularly bones.
Examples:
● X-rays are used to detect fractures and infections.
● The patient had an X-ray to check for broken bones in the arm.
70. Endoscope
Explanation: A flexible instrument with a camera used to view internal organs or
cavities.
Examples:
● An endoscope can be used for a colonoscopy to examine the colon.
● The doctor used an endoscope to inspect the patient’s throat.
71. Sphygmomanometer
Explanation: A device used to measure blood pressure.
Examples:
● The sphygmomanometer is used during routine check-ups to monitor blood
pressure.
● The nurse used a sphygmomanometer to check the patient’s blood pressure.
72. Stethoscope
Explanation: A tool used by doctors to listen to internal sounds of a patient’s body, such
as heartbeats and lung sounds.
Examples: A stethoscope is essential for diagnosing heart and lung conditions. The
doctor used a stethoscope to listen for abnormal heart sounds.
73. Defibrillator
Explanation: A device used to deliver an electric shock to the heart to restore normal
rhythm in cases of cardiac arrest.
Examples:
● A defibrillator is crucial for emergency cardiac care.
● The paramedics used a defibrillator to revive the patient after a heart attack.
74. Ventilator
Explanation: A machine that assists or takes over the breathing process for patients
who cannot breathe on their own.
Examples:
● Ventilators are used in critical care settings for patients with severe respiratory
issues.
● The patient was placed on a ventilator to help with breathing.
75. Infusion Pump
Explanation: A device that delivers fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a
patient’s bloodstream in a controlled manner.
Examples:
● Infusion pumps are used for administering chemotherapy drugs.
● The nurse adjusted the infusion pump to deliver the medication at the correct rate.
76. Nebulizer
Explanation: A machine that converts liquid medication into a mist for inhalation to
treat respiratory conditions.
Examples:
● Nebulizers are often used for treating asthma and COPD.
● The patient used a nebulizer to ease their breathing difficulties.
77. Pulse Oximeter
Explanation: A device that measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood and pulse
rate.
Examples:
● Pulse oximeters are used to monitor patients with respiratory problems.
● The nurse used a pulse oximeter to check the patient’s oxygen levels.
78. Thermometer
Explanation: A device used to measure body temperature.
Examples:
● Thermometers are used to detect fever and monitor patient conditions.
● The doctor used a thermometer to check the patient’s temperature.
79. Electroencephalogram (EEG)
Explanation: A test that measures electrical activity in the brain.
Examples:
● EEGs are used to diagnose epilepsy and other brain disorders.
● The neurologist reviewed the EEG results to determine the cause of the seizures.
80. Dialysis Machine
Explanation: A device that filters waste products from the blood when the kidneys are
not functioning properly.
Examples:
● Dialysis machines are essential for patients with kidney failure.
● The patient underwent dialysis to remove toxins from their blood.
81. Pacemaker
Explanation: A device implanted in the chest to regulate abnormal heart rhythms.
Examples:
● Pacemakers are used to treat bradycardia and other heart rhythm disorders.
● The cardiologist recommended a pacemaker to manage the patient’s slow heartbeat.
82. Biopsy Needle
Explanation: A needle used to obtain a sample of tissue for examination and diagnosis.
Examples:
● Biopsy needles are used to diagnose cancers and other conditions.
● The doctor performed a biopsy using a needle to investigate a suspicious lump.
83. Spirometer
Explanation: A device used to measure lung function and capacity.
Examples:
● Spirometers are used in pulmonary function tests.
● The respiratory therapist used a spirometer to assess the patient’s lung capacity.
84. Ophthalmoscope
Explanation: An instrument used to examine the interior structures of the eye.
Examples:
● Ophthalmoscopes are essential for detecting eye diseases.
● The ophthalmologist used an ophthalmoscope to check for signs of retinal damage.
85. Otoscope
Explanation: An instrument used to examine the ear canal and eardrum.
Examples:
● Otoscopes are used to diagnose ear infections and blockages.
● The pediatrician used an otoscope to investigate the child’s ear pain.
86. Glucometer
Explanation: A device used to measure blood glucose levels.
Examples:
● Glucometers are used by individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar.
● The patient used a glucometer to check their glucose levels before a meal.
87. Suction Device
Explanation: A machine used to remove fluids or debris from a patient’s body.
Examples:
● Suction devices are used during surgeries to keep the field clear.
● The surgeon used a suction device to remove excess blood from the wound.
88. Electrolyte Analyzer
Explanation: A device used to measure levels of electrolytes in the blood, such as
sodium and potassium.
Examples:
● Electrolyte analyzers are used to monitor patients with imbalances.
● The lab technician used the analyzer to check the patient’s electrolyte levels.
89. Cryotherapy Unit
Explanation: A device that uses extreme cold to treat various conditions, including
warts and certain tumors.
Examples:
● Cryotherapy units are used for freezing off abnormal skin growths.
● The dermatologist used cryotherapy to remove a wart from the patient’s hand.
90. Centrifuge
Explanation: A machine that separates components of a fluid by spinning it at high
speeds.
Examples:
● Centrifuges are used in laboratories to separate blood components.
● The technician used a centrifuge to prepare samples for further analysis.
91. Electrosurgical Unit
Explanation: A device that uses electrical currents to cut or coagulate tissue during
surgery.
Examples:
● Electrosurgical units are used to perform precise surgical incisions.
● The surgeon used the electrosurgical unit to minimize bleeding during the
procedure.
92. Bedside Monitor
Explanation: A device that continuously monitors a patient’s vital signs, such as heart
rate and blood pressure.
Examples:
● Bedside monitors are used in hospitals to track patients’ conditions in real-time.
● The nurse checked the bedside monitor to review the patient’s heart rate.
93. ECG Machine
Explanation: A device used to record the electrical activity of the heart and produce an
ECG reading.
Examples:
● ECG machines are used in emergency settings to diagnose heart conditions.
● The cardiologist reviewed the ECG machine’s output to determine the treatment
plan.
94. Electrolyte Analyzer
Explanation: A device used to measure and analyze levels of electrolytes in bodily
fluids.
Examples:
● Electrolyte analyzers are essential for diagnosing dehydration and kidney disorders.
● The technician used the analyzer to monitor the patient’s electrolyte balance.
95. Assessment
Explanation: The evaluation or appraisal of a patient’s condition, often involving history,
physical examination, and diagnostic tests.
Examples:
● "The nurse conducted a thorough assessment of the patient’s symptoms before the
doctor arrived."
● "The initial assessment revealed that the patient had high blood pressure."
96. Follow-up
Explanation: Continued care or observation of a patient after an initial visit or treatment
to monitor progress and address any ongoing issues.
Examples:
● "The doctor scheduled a follow-up appointment to review the results of the tests."
● "Follow-up care is essential for patients recovering from surgery."
97. Consent
Meaning: Permission given by a patient to proceed with a treatment or procedure after
being informed about the risks and benefits.
Examples:
● "The patient signed a consent form before undergoing the surgical procedure."
● "Informed consent is a legal requirement before performing any major medical
intervention."
98. Charting
Explanation: The process of documenting patient information, including medical history,
observations, and treatment details in the medical record.
Examples:
● "The nurse spent time charting the patient’s progress after each visit."
● "Accurate charting helps ensure continuity of care and effective communication
among healthcare providers."
99. Observation
Explanation: The act of monitoring a patient’s condition over time to assess changes or
responses to treatment.
Examples:
● "The patient was placed under observation in the recovery room to monitor for any
complications."
● "Regular observation of the wound site was necessary to check for signs of
infection."