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MISCELLANEOUS Scribe vocabulary
Expert flash cards for scribes to brush up on their skills
628
Medical
Professional
02/10/2010

Additional Medical Flashcards

 


 

Cards

Term
AAA
Definition
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Term
Abd
Definition
Abbreviation for Abdomen - the area of the stomach below the ribs and above the pelvis on the front of the body
Term
Abduction
Definition
Movement away from the midline
Term
Accessory muscle use
Definition
Struggling for breath using muscles in the neck
Term
Adduction
Definition
Movement toward the midline
Term
Adenopathy
Definition
Enlargement of lymph nodes
Term
Adnexa
Definition

Appendages of an organ

 

Adnexa uteri: fallopian tubes and ovaries.

Adnexa of eye: eyebrow, eyelids, lacrimal apparatus

Adnexa of skin: hairs, sweat glands, nails, etc.

Term
AED
Definition
Automated External Defibrillator
Term
Afebrile
Definition
Without fever
Term
A fib
Definition
Atrial fibrillation - an irregularly irregular arrhythmia, requires slowing or conversion
Term
Albuterol
Definition
A short-acting inhaled or oral medication for the relief of bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma or COPD
Term
ALOC
Definition
Altered level of consciousness - LOC is a measurement of a person's arousability and responsiveness to stimuli from the environment
Term
Ambulatory
Definition
Able to walk
Term
Amoxicillin
Definition
A common antibiotic given to kids
Term
AMS
Definition
Altered mental status
Term
Aneurysm
Definition
Any abnormal, localized dilation of a blood vessel
Term
Angina
Definition
Chest pain due to lack of blood flow to heart muscle
Term
Angioplasty
Definition
Cardiac catheterization: opening of an artery (usually in heart) with a wire dilator inserted in the cath lab, usually followed by the placement of a stent to keep the vessel open
Term
Anion gap
Definition
A blood test that suggests an unmeasured acid is in the blood
Term
Anisocoria
Definition
Unequal pupil sizes
Term
Anterior
Definition
Front, as bisected by the coronal plane
Term
Appendectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of the appendix
Term
Arrhythmia
Definition
Abnormal heart rhythm
Term
Artery
Definition
Blood vessel carrying blood away from heart
Term
Arthralgia
Definition
Pain in the joint without swelling or warmth
Term
Articulation
Definition
The point at which two or more bones make contact
Term
ASA
Definition
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)
Term
Atelectasis
Definition
Partial collapse of the small airways in the lungs
Term
Augmentin
Definition
A common antibiotic for ears, bites, skin
Term
Avulsion
Definition
A forcible tearing away of a part or structure
Term
Axilla
Definition
Underarm
Term
Azithromycin
Definition
A common antibiotic for lung infection
Term
BCP
Definition
Birth control pill
Term
Beta blocker
Definition
Group of drugs that slow heart rate and lower BP
Term
BIB
Definition
Brought in by
Term
BID
Definition
Twice per day (refers to Rx)
Term
BLE
Definition
Bilateral lower extremities
Term
Bradycardia
Definition
Abnormally slow heart beat
Term
Bradypnea
Definition
Abnormally slow breathing
Term
Brudzinski’s sign
Definition
Sign of meningitis - the appearance of involuntary lifting of the legs when a patient's head is lifted
Term
Bruit
Definition
A sound heard in auscultation indicating narrowing of a vessel - due to the turbulent flow caused by an obstruction
Term
BSO
Definition
Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
Term
BTL
Definition

Bilateral tubal ligation

 

A method of sterilization for women

(i.e. getting your tubes tied)

Term
BUE
Definition
Bilateral upper extremities
Term
C/O
Definition
"complains of"
Term
C/w
Definition
"consistent with"
Term
CA
Definition
Cancer
Term
CABG
Definition
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft - An open heart surgery involving grafting a vessel to the coronary arteries to improve blood flow to the heart
Term
CAD
Definition
Coronary artery disease - an abnormal narrowing of the blood vessels of the heart
Term
Cardiomegaly
Definition
Enlargement of the heart
Term
Carotid bruit
Definition
Noise from carotid artery narrowing heard with stethoscope
Term
c-diff
Definition
Clostridium difficile - as a diagnosis refers to a severe infection of the colon, often resulting from an imbalance of the normal gut flora caused by antibiotics
Term
Cellulitis
Definition
Infection of the skin characterized by erythema, warmth, tenderness
Term
Cerumen
Definition
Earwax
Term
Cervical
Definition
Pertaining to the neck or to the cervix of the uterus (same word!)
Term
Cholecystectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of the gallbladder
Term
Cholecystitis
Definition
Inflammation of the gallbladder
Term
Cholelithiasis
Definition
Gallstone formation in the gallbladder
Term
Cipro
Definition
A common antibiotic, especially for lung, urine, children
Term
Cirrhosis
Definition
Inflammation of an liver resulting in scarring and loss of function
Term
Clubbing
Definition
Swelling and softening of the nailbed indicating chronic lung problem
Term
CMT
Definition
Cervical Motion Tenderness
Term
Colectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of part or all of the large intestine
Term
Colostomy
Definition
Surgical procedure that provides an opening between the colon and abdominal wall. After this procedure patients may need to void their bowels into a colostomy bag
Term
Conjunctiva
Definition
White part of eye and inside lining of eyelids
Term
COPD
Definition
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - a lung problem resulting in shortness of breath, usually from smoking (emphysema)
Term
Cornea
Definition
Transparent coat of the eyeball that covers the iris and pupil. With the lens refracts light entering the eye.
Term
Costovertebral angle tenderness (CVA tenderness)
Definition
Tenderness posteriorly at the lower rib. Can indicate pain related to the kidneys and possibly kidney stones.
Term
CP
Definition
chest pain
Term
Creatinine
Definition
Measuring serum creatinine is a simple test and it is the most commonly used indicator of renal function.
Term
Crepitus
Definition
Used to describe the grating, crackling or popping sounds and sensations experienced under the skin and in joints.
Term
CSF
Definition
Cerebrospinal fluid
Term
CVA
Definition
Cerebrovascular accident or stroke. Death of brain matter from insufficient oxygenation due to loss of blood supply
Term
CW
Definition
Chest wall
Term
Cyanosis
Definition
Bluish skin tone at extremities due to lack of oxygenation - indicating hypoxia
Term
D&C
Definition
Dilation and curettage
Term
D5W
Definition
An IV solution that has only 5% sugar in it
Term
DDD
Definition
Degenerative disk disease
Term
Debridement
Definition
Removal of dead or contaminated tissue from a wound
Term
Decubitus
Definition
pressure sore on skin
Term
Deep
Definition
Usually refers to full thickness lacerations that penetrate the dermis, exposing fatty tissue
Term
Dentition
Definition
The condition of the teeth
Term
Dermis
Definition
True skin, beneath the epidermis
Term
Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
Definition
a condition in which a person has a high blood sugar (glucose) level as a result of the body either not producing enough insulin (type I), or because body cells do not properly respond to the insulin that is produced (type II)
Term
Diaphoresis
Definition
Excessive or profuse sweating or perspiration
Term
Differential Diagnosis
Definition
A list of possible diagnoses to explain a set of signs, symptoms and test findings
Term
Dilaudid
Definition
A common narcotic used IVP (typically in 1mg doses)
Term
Diltiazem
Definition
A common medication used to slow heart rate
Term
Distal
Definition
Farther from the limb root
Term
DJD
Definition
Degenerative joint disease
Term
DKA
Definition
Diabetes Ketoacidosis
Term
Dopamine
Definition
Drug used to raise blood pressure when a patient is in shock
Term
Dorsiflexion
Definition
Upward flexion of the foot
Term
Dullness on percussion
Definition
Sign of solid fluid or mass under area being “tapped” or percussed
Term
DVT
Definition

Deep Vein Thrombosis

 

Ischemic clot in the deep veins of the leg or arm

Term
Dysmenorrhea
Definition
Painful menstruation
Term
Dyspareunia
Definition
Painful intercourse
Term
Dyspepsia
Definition
Indigestion
Term
Ecchymosis
Definition
Bruising
Term
EF
Definition
ejection fraction - a percentage of the total ventricular volume expressed with each full heart beat (55-75% is considered the normal range)
Term
EGD
Definition

esophagogastroduodenoscopy

 

Upper GI endoscopy

Term
EMS
Definition
emergency medical services - typically ambulances that bring patients to the ED
Term
Endometriosis
Definition
Presence of functioning endometrial tissue outside of the uterus
Term
EOMI
Definition
extraocular movements intact
Term
Everted
Definition
Rolled outward
Term
Exopthalmus
Definition
bulging eyes, often from thyroid disease
Term
Extension
Definition
Straightening out, the movement opposite to flexion
Term
External
Definition
Outside
Term
Extrasystoles
Definition
Extra beats of the heart
Term
f/u
Definition
follow up
Term
FHR
Definition
fetal heart rate
Term
FHT
Definition
fetal heart tones
Term
Flexion
Definition
Bending or angulation, the movement opposite to extension
Term
Friction rub
Definition
Abnormal heart or lung sound (typically indicating pericarditis)
Term
Funduscopic
Definition
exam of back of the eye with a ophthalmoscope
Term
G_P_A_
Definition
(# of) grava (pregnancies), para (live births), abortions (spontaneous or induced)
Term
Gallop
Definition
Extra heart sound heard commonly in CHF
Term
GCS
Definition
Glasow Coma Scale - a neurological scale that aims to give a reliable, objective way of recording the conscious state of a person for initial as well as subsequent assessment
Term
GI
Definition
Gastrointestinal
Term
Gravid
Definition
Being pregnant
Term
GSW
Definition
Gun Shot Wound
Term
Guarding
Definition
An involuntary tightening of abdominal muscles when being palpated
Term
HCTZ
Definition
Hydrochlorothiazide
Term
Hemangioma
Definition
Tumor consisting of blood vessels
Term
Hematemesis
Definition
Vomiting of blood
Term
Hematochezia
Definition
Bright red blood in the stool
Term
Hematoma
Definition
Swelling of blood which occurs in an organ or tissue
Term
Hematuria
Definition
Blood in the urine
Term
Heme negative
Definition
No blood detected by chemical test, usually referring to stool or urine
Term
Hemiparesis
Definition
Weakness on one half of body
Term
Hemiplegia
Definition
Paralysis on one half of body
Term
Hemoptysis
Definition
Coughing up blood
Term
Hemorrhage
Definition
Excessive or profuse bleeding
Term
Hemothorax
Definition
Blood fluid present in the pleural cavity (outside lung but in chest cavity)
Term
Hepatomegaly
Definition
Enlarged liver
Term
Hepatosplenomegaly
Definition
Enlargement of the liver and spleen
Term
HH
Definition
Hiatal Hernia - the protrusion of the upper part of the stomach into the thorax through a tear or weakness in the diaphragm
Term
Hyperlipidemia
Definition
Elevation of cholesterol and or triglycerides in the blood
Term
Hypertension
Definition
Persistently high or arterial blood pressure
Term
Hypotension
Definition
Persistently low arterial blood pressure
Term
Hysterectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of the uterus
Term
IBS
Definition
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Term
ICH
Definition
Intracranial hemorrhage
Term
Ileus
Definition
Bowel lacks normal contractions, usually shows as air fluid levels on X-rays
Term
Induration
Definition
Hardened tissue, often from infection
Term
Infarct
Definition
Cessation of the blood flow causing tissue death
Term
Inferior
Definition
Lower, farther from head
Term
Inguinal
Definition
Pertaining to the groin region
Term
Internal
Definition
Inside the body
Term
Intervertebral disc
Definition
Structure lying between the bony vertebral bodies
Term
Inverted
Definition
Rolled inward
Term
Irregularly irregular rhythm
Definition
No consistent pattern to the heart rhythm, usually implying atrial fibrillation (A fib)
Term
Ischemia
Definition
Temporary and localized lack of blood flow
Term
IUP
Definition
Intrauterine pregnancy
Term
IVC
Definition
Inferior vena cava
Term
Jaundice
Definition
Yellow discoloration of the skin
Term
Joint
Definition
Articulation or junction between two or more bones or cartilage
Term
JVD
Definition
Jugular vein distention
Term
Keloid
Definition
Scar formation consisting of dense tissue
Term
Kernig’s sign
Definition
Sign of meningitis - positive when the leg is fully bent in the hip and knee, and subsequent extension in the knee is painful (leading to resistance)
Term
Lacrimal
Definition
Pertaining to tears
Term
LAFB
Definition
Left anterior fascicular block
Term
Lateral
Definition
Farther from the midline
Term
LBBB
Definition
Left bundle branch block (and EKG finding)
Term
Leukocyte esterase
Definition
Chemical test to detect possible infection in urine
Term
Ligament
Definition
Fibrous tissue, binding bones together
Term
Lingual
Definition
Pertaining to the tongue
Term
Lipase
Definition
Blood test measuring pancreas activity
Term
LLE
Definition
Left lower extremity
Term
LLQ
Definition
Left lower quadrant of the abdomen
Term
LNMP
Definition
Last normal menstrual period
Term
LOC
Definition
Loss of consciousness
Term
LUE
Definition
Left upper extremity
Term
LUQ
Definition
Left upper quadrant of the abdomen
Term
LVH
Definition
Left ventricular hypertrophy - the thickening of the myocardium of the left ventricle of the heart
Term
Lymphadenopathy
Definition
Enlargement of lymph nodes
Term
Lymphangitis
Definition
Infection traveling up the lymphatic system
Term
Macule
Definition
Small colored spot on the skin
Term
Malaise
Definition
Generalized discomfort or weakness, "I just haven't felt like myself lately"
Term
Malleolus
Definition
Projections on either side of the ankle joint from the lower leg bones
Term
Malocclusion
Definition
A misalignment of teeth and/or incorrect relation between the teeth of the two dental arches
Term
Mass
Definition
Any firm abnormality seen or palpated on physical exam
Term
Mastectomy
Definition
Surgical excision of the breast
Term
Maxalt
Definition
A migraine medication
Term
Maxilla
Definition
Cheek, or structures near cheek
Term
MCA or MCC
Definition
Motorcycle accident (or collision)
Term
Medial
Definition
Nearer to the midline
Term
Melena
Definition
Black tarry stool (can indicate an upper GI bleed)
Term
Meningismus
Definition
Stiff neck
Term
MI
Definition
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Term
Morphine
Definition
A common narcotic used IVP (1/2 - 1/4 strength of Dilaudid per mg)
Term
MRA
Definition
Magnetic resonance angiogram
Term
MRSA/VRSA
Definition
two types of bacteria that are very resistant to antibiotic treatment (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus )
Term
Murmur
Definition
Abnormal heart sound rated on 1 to 6 scales, 6 being the loudest
Term
MVA
Definition
Motor vehicle accident
Term
Myalgia
Definition
Muscular pain
Term
Nares
Definition
Nostrils (singular is naris)
Term
Neuralgia
Definition
Sharp pain along the course of a nerve
Term
Nitroglycerine (NTG)
Definition
Dilates blood vessels, used with heart pain (usually administered via SL spray by EMS PTA but patient's also sometimes have their own supply at home to take with onset of chest pain)
Term
nml
Definition
normal
Term
Norco
Definition
An oral narcotic, identical to Vicodin
Term
Normal saline
Definition
An IV fluid that is equimolar to blood
Term
NSAID
Definition
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (Ex: Ibuprofen and Toradol)
Term
NSR
Definition
normal sinus rhythm
Term
NSVD
Definition
normal spontaneous vaginal delivery
Term
Nystagmus
Definition
Involuntary rapid eye movements
Term
Occiput
Definition
Back part of the skull
Term
Olecranon
Definition
Bony projection of the ulna forming the point of the elbow
Term
Oophorectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of ovaries
Term
OOT/OOA
Definition
out of town/area
Term
Organomegaly
Definition
Enlargement of the abdominal organs, usually spleen, liver or kidneys
Term
Os
Definition
Mouth, orifice (PO medications are given by mouth, or "per os")
Term
OTC
Definition
Over the counter
Term
Pallor
Definition
Paleness of the skin
Term
Palmar or Volar
Definition
Palm side of hand or body
Term
Palpable
Definition
Able to be touched or easily perceived
Term
Paresthesia
Definition
Abnormal tactile sensation often described as burning, tingling, numbness, or "pins and needles"
Term
PAT
Definition
Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia
Term
PE (pulmonary embolus)
Definition
clot in the lung, often arising from leg veins or pelvis
Term
Pedal edema
Definition
Water retention in the foot/ankle area causing swelling
Term
Peritonsillar abscess
Definition
Abscess that forms behind the tonsil
Term
Petechia
Definition
Tiny red spot occurring on the skin caused by a small amount of subcutaneous bleeding
Term
Pharynx
Definition
back of the throat extending up to the nose and down to the vocal cords
Term
Photophobia
Definition
Abnormal intolerance to light
Term
Plantar
Definition
Sole side of foot
Term
Plantar flexion
Definition
Downward flexion of the foot
Term
PMD/PCP
Definition
primary care physician
Term
PMI displaced laterally
Definition
Sign of enlarged heart
Term
Pneumothorax
Definition
Abnormal presence of air in the pleural space (chest cavity) and outside of the lungs
Term
Posterior or Dorsal
Definition
Back of body
Term
PRN
Definition
As needed (refers to Rx)
Term
Prolonged expirations
Definition
Indicates airway narrowing on expiration, common in asthma
Term
Prominent abdominal aortic pulsation
Definition
Possible abdominal aortic aneurysm
Term
Prone
Definition
Lying face down
Term
Proximal
Definition
Nearer to the limb root
Term
PSVT
Definition
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
Term
Pt
Definition
Patient
Term
Pulmonary
Definition
Related to lung
Term
Purulent
Definition
Consisting of pus
Term
PVC
Definition
Premature ventricular contraction
Term
PVD
Definition
peripheral vascular disease
Term
Q
Definition
Every (refers to Rx)
Term
Q4H
Definition
Every 4 hours (refers to Rx)
Term
QD
Definition
Everyday (refers to Rx)
Term
RA
Definition
Rheumatoid arthritis
Term
Rales
Definition
Clicking, rattling, or crackling noises heard in the lungs on inhalation, indicating fluid in alveoli
Term
RBBB
Definition
Right bundle branch block (an EKG finding)
Term
Rebound
Definition
Pain when releasing hand from abdominal palpation
Term
Retractions
Definition
Sucking in between ribs or sternum, during inspiration – usually described in children in respiratory distress
Term
Rhinorrhea
Definition
Thin, watery discharge from the nose
Term
Rhonchi
Definition
A coarse sound in the lungs that indicates the presence of thick fluid
Term
RLE
Definition
Right lower extremity
Term
RLQ
Definition
Right lower quadrant of the abdomen
Term
Rocephin
Definition
A common IVPB antibiotic
Term
ROM
Definition
Range of motion
Term
Romberg’s sign
Definition
The tendency to fall to one side while standing with eyes closed
Term
RUE
Definition
Right upper extremity
Term
RUQ
Definition
Right upper quadrant of the abdomen
Term
RVR
Definition
Rapid ventricular response
Term
s/p
Definition
Status post
Term
SAB
Definition
Spontaneous abortion
Term
SAH
Definition
Subarachnoid hemorrhage
Term
Sclera
Definition
The layer under the white part of the eye
Term
SDH
Definition
Subdural hemorrhage
Term
Sepsis
Definition
a serious medical condition that is characterized by a whole-body inflammatory state and the presence of a known or suspected infection. The body may develop this inflammatory response to microbes in the blood, urine, lungs, skin, or other tissues. A lay term for sepsis is blood poisoning.
Term
Shaft
Definition
Long, slender portion of a long bone
Term
SNF
Definition
Skilled nursing facility
Term
SOB
Definition
Shortness of breath - dyspnea
Term
Splenectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of the spleen
Term
Splenomegaly
Definition
Enlarged spleen
Term
Splinting
Definition
Not moving because of pain
Term
Sputum
Definition
matter that is expelled from the respiratory tract, such as mucus or phlegm, mixed with saliva, which can then be spat from the mouth
Term
Status epilepticus
Definition
Continuous seizure activity
Term
Stellate
Definition
Star-Shaped
Term
Stenosis
Definition
Narrowing of a body opening or passage
Term
Stridor
Definition
Harsh or high-pitched respiratory sound heard on inspiration, caused by obstruction of upper airway passages
Term
Superficial
Definition
Nearer to the surface
Term
Superior
Definition
Upper, nearer to head
Term
Supine
Definition
Lying face up
Term
SVT
Definition
Supraventricular tachycardia - any tachycardic rhythm originating above the ventricular tissue
Term
Syncope
Definition
Loss of consciousness due to lack of sufficient oxygenation of the brain
Term
T&A
Definition
Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy
Term
TAB
Definition
Therapeutic abortion
Term
Tachycardia
Definition
Abnormal rapid heart beat
Term
Tachypnea
Definition
Extremely rapid respiration
Term
TAH
Definition
Total abdominal hysterectomy
Term
TC
Definition
Traffic collision (MVA)
Term
TGA
Definition
Transient global amnesia
Term
TGN
Definition
Trigeminal neuralgia
Term
Thoracotomy
Definition
Surgical opening of the chest cavity
Term
Thyroid
Definition
Gland in front of the windpipe that makes thyroid hormones
Term
Thyromegaly
Definition
Enlarged thyroid
Term
TIA
Definition
transient ischemic attack - “Minor stroke”, neurological function is regained with time
Term
Tinea
Definition
Superficial fungal infection of the skin
Term
Tinnitus
Definition
Ringing in the ears - is the perception of sound within the human ear in the absence of corresponding external sound
Term
Tonsillectomy
Definition
Surgical excision of the tonsils
Term
Torsion
Definition
The twisting of a bodily organ on its own axis (usually pertaining to an ovary or testicle) and is very painful
Term
TPA
Definition

Tissue Plasminogen Activator

 

Drug that immediately dissolves clots

Term
Troponin
Definition
Cardiac enzyme test done to indicate recent heart attack
Term
TTP
Definition
Tenderness to palpation
Term
Turgor
Definition
The main pressure of the cell contents against the cell membrane (an outdated physical exam skin finding)
Term
TURP
Definition
Transurethral Resection of Prostate - procedure to remove prostatic tissue preformed through urethra
Term
URI
Definition
Upper respiratory infection
Term
Urinary retention
Definition
Large bladder due to obstruction
Term
Urticaria
Definition
Hives or wheals, either redder or paler than the surrounding area and are often itchy
Term
Vancomycin
Definition
A common IVPB antibiotic given for skin infections
Term
Vein
Definition
Blood vessel carrying deoxygenated blood back to the heart to be pumped to the lungs
Term
Vertebral point tenderness
Definition
A physical exam finding typically indicating a spine fx - pain upon direct palpation of spine bones
Term
Vertigo
Definition
A spinning sensation caused by an inner ear problem (BPV)
Term
Vestibulitis
Definition
Inflammation of balance mechanism in the inner ear causing dizziness
Term
Vicodin
Definition
An oral narcotic, identical to Norco
Term
VSS
Definition
Vital signs stable
Term
w/
Definition
With
Term
w/o
Definition
Without
Term
w/u
Definition
Work up
Term
WBC
Definition
White blood cells including leukocytes, monocytes, and others
Term
Wheal
Definition
Round, localized area of edema on the skin attended by severe itching
Term
Wheezing
Definition
A continuous, coarse, whistling sound produced in the respiratory airways during breathing. For wheezes to occur, some part of the respiratory tree must be narrowed or obstructed, or airflow velocity within the respiratory tree must be heightened (typical of asthma)
Term
Xopenex
Definition
An inhaled medication to relieve asthma
Term
Zofran
Definition
A common antiemetic (anti nausea)
Term
ACRONYM
Definition
Meaning
Term
AAA
Definition
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Term
BIB
Definition
Brought in by
Term
BID
Definition

bis in die

Twice per day (refers to Rx)

Term
BLE
Definition
Bilateral lower extremities
Term
BSO
Definition
Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
Term
BTL
Definition
Bilateral tubal ligation
Term
BUE
Definition
Bilateral upper extremities
Term
C/O
Definition
Complains of
Term
C/w
Definition
Consistent with
Term
CA
Definition
Cancer
Term
CABG or CABS
Definition

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

Open heart surgery involving arterial bypass using a trans-

Term
CAD
Definition

coronary artery disease

 

Abnormal narrowing of the blood vessels of the heart, predis-

Term
CMT
Definition
Cervical Motion Tenderness
Term
COPD
Definition

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

 

Lung problem resulting in shortness of breath, usually from smoking

Term
CP
Definition
chest pain
Term
CSF
Definition
Cerebrospinal fluid
Term
CVA
Definition

Cerebral Vascular Accident

(Stroke)

Death of brain matter from loss of blood supply

Term
CW
Definition
Chest wall
Term
D5W
Definition
An IV solution that has only 5% sugar in it
Term
DDD
Definition
Degenerative disk disease
Term
DJD
Definition
Degenerative joint disease
Term
DKA
Definition
Diabetes Ketoacidosis
Term
DVT
Definition

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Clot in the deep veins of the leg or arm

Term
EF
Definition
ejection fraction
Term
EGD
Definition

EsophagoGastroDuodenoscopy

Upper GI endoscopy

Term
EMS
Definition
emergency medical services
Term
f/u
Definition
follow up
Term
FHR
Definition
fetal heart rate
Term
FHT
Definition
fetal heart tones
Term
G_P_A_
Definition
grava (pregnancies), para (live births), abortions (spontaneous or induced)
Term
GCS
Definition
Glasow Coma Scale
Term
GIB
Definition
Gastrointestinal bleed
Term
GSW
Definition
Gun Shot Wound
Term
IBS
Definition
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Term
ICH
Definition
Intracranial hemorrhage
Term
IUP
Definition
Intrauterine pregnancy
Term
IVC
Definition
Inferior vena cava
Term
LAFB
Definition
Left anterior fascicular block
Term
LBBB
Definition
Left bundle branch block
Term
LLE
Definition
Left lower extremity
Term
LLQ
Definition
Left lower quadrant
Term
LNMP
Definition
Last normal menstrual period
Term
LOC
Definition
Loss of consciousness
Term
LUE
Definition
Left upper extremity
Term
LUQ
Definition
Left upper quadrant
Term
LVH
Definition
Left ventricular hypertrophy
Term
MCA or MCC
Definition
Motorcycle accident
Term
MRA
Definition
Magnetic resonance angiogram
Term
MRSA/VRSA
Definition

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Vanomyocin resistant Staphylococcus aureus

 

two types of very resistant bacteria

Term
MVA
Definition
Motor vehicle accident
Term
NL
Definition
normal
Term
NSAID
Definition
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
Term
NSR
Definition
normal sinus rhythm
Term
NSVD
Definition
Normal Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery
Term
NTG
Definition
nitroglycerine
Term
OOT/OOA
Definition
out of town/area
Term
OTC
Definition
Over the counter
Term
PAT
Definition
Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia
Term
PE
Definition

Pulmonary Embolus

clot in the lung, often arising from leg veins or pelvis

Term
PMD/PCP
Definition
primary care doctor
Term
PRN
Definition
As needed (refers to Rx)
Term
PSVT
Definition
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
Term
Pt
Definition
Patient
Term
PVC
Definition
Premature ventricular contraction
Term
PVD
Definition
peripheral vascular disease
Term
RA
Definition
Rheumatoid arthritis
Term
RLE
Definition
Right lower extremity
Term
RLQ
Definition
Right lower quadrant
Term
ROM
Definition
Range of motion
Term
RUE
Definition
Right upper extremity
Term
RUQ
Definition
Right upper quadrant
Term
RVR
Definition
Rapid ventricular response
Term
S/P
Definition
Status post
Term
SAB
Definition
Spontaneous abortion
Term
SAH
Definition
Subarachnoid hemorrhage
Term
SDH
Definition
Subdural hemorrhage
Term
SNF
Definition
Skilled nursing facility
Term
SOB
Definition
Shortness of breath
Term
SVT
Definition
Supraventricular tachycardia
Term
TAB
Definition
Therapeutic abortion
Term
TAH
Definition
Total abdominal hysterectomy
Term
TC
Definition
Traffic collision
Term
TGA
Definition
Transient global amnesia
Term
TGN
Definition
Trigeminal neuralgia
Term
TIA
Definition

Transient Ischemic Attack

 

“Minor stroke”, neurological function is regained with time

Term
TPA
Definition

Tissue Plasminogen Activator

Drug that immediately dissolves clots

Term
TTP
Definition
Tenderness to palpation
Term
URI
Definition
Upper respiratory infection
Term
VSS
Definition
Vital signs stable
Term
w/
Definition
With
Term
w/o
Definition
Without
Term
w/u
Definition
Work up
Term
WBC
Definition
White blood cells including leukocytes, monocytes, and others
Term
D&C
Definition
Dilation and curettage, a scraping of the lining of the uterus to remove all tissue
Term
DM
Definition
Diabetes Mellitus: there are types I and II
Term
GERD
Definition
Gastroesophageal relflux disease: acid reflux upwards from the stomach
Term
HTN
Definition
hypertension, or high blood pressure
Term
IVDA
Definition
Intravenous drug abuse
Term
MI
Definition
myocardial infarction or a heart attack. Implies death of heart muscle.
Term
PID
Definition
Pelvic inflammatory disease - and infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes
Term
UTI
Definition
Urinary Tract Infection: may be just bladder (cystitis) or kidney (pyelonephritis)
Term
IUD
Definition
Intra-uterine device (contraceptive)
Term
T&A
Definition
Tonsillectomy (and removal of adenoid tissue which is always done, hence the "A")
Term
TURP
Definition
Transurethral resection of the prostate - a procedure to open the urethra to allow urine to flow better - does not remove entire prostate gland
Term
Bx
Definition
Biopsy, but probably not a permitted abbreviation in most hospitals
Term
IVC filter
Definition
Inferior vena cava filter - a filter placed in the vena cava to stop clots from the leg reaching the lungs
Term
ASA
Definition
aspirin
Term
DT or tD or Tdap
Definition
Vaccination given to prevent Diptheria, Tetanus (and more recently Pertussis has been added)
Term
tPA
Definition
tissue plasminogen activating factor or "clot buster" drug
Term
A&O x 3
Definition
Alert and oriented to time, place, person
Term
LU UE RLE BUE
Definition
lower extremity (leg), upper extremity (arm), right lower extremity, bilateral upper extremity, etc
Term
CVA tenderness
Definition
Costovertebral angle tenderness - hurts when you push over the kidney from the back
Term
DTR
Definition
Deep tendon reflexes - those obtained with a reflex hammer
Term
EOM, FREOM
Definition
Extraocular movement, full range of EOM: refers to eye movements in all directions
Term
JVD
Definition
Jugular venous distension - a swollen vein in the neck caused by high right heart pressures seen in CHF
Term
NAD
Definition
No acute distress - very commonly used abbreviation for exam
Term
PERRL PERLA
Definition
Pupils equal, round and reactive to light; pupils equal and responsive to light and accommodation
Term
SLR
Definition
Straight leg raising: a test for sciatica
Term
ALOC
Definition
Altered Level of Consciousness
Term
AMS
Definition
Altered mental status - can apply to awakedness or confusion or agitation
Term
DOE
Definition
Dyspnea (breathlessness) on exertion
Term
Dx
Definition
Diagnosis
Term
FAST exam
Definition
Focussed Assessement with sonography in Trauma: a quick exam looking for free blood in the abdomen
Term
Fx
Definition
fracture
Term
H&P
Definition
History and physical exam
Term
I&D
Definition
Incision and drainage, typically of an abcess
Term
IM
Definition
intramuscular
Term
IV
Definition
intravenously
Term
LP
Definition
lumbar puncture: a needle put in the back to take out cerebral spinal fluid for examination
Term
NRB mask
Definition

Non-Rebreather Mask

 

Mask covering mouth and nose to deliver oxygen

Term
PO
Definition

per os

by mouth

Term
PND
Definition
Paroxysmal noctural dyspnea: having to sit up to breath during the night - sign of CHF
Term
PR
Definition

per rectum

administer rectally

Term
PTA
Definition
Prior to arrival
Term
Rx
Definition
Prescription
Term
Sx
Definition
symptoms
Term
Tx
Definition
treatment
Term
WNL
Definition
Within normal limits, or "normal"
Term
A fib
Definition
Atrial fibrillation
Term
Angina
Definition
Chest pain due to lack of blood flow to heart muscle
Term
Appendectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of the appendix
Term
Arrhythmia
Definition
Abnormal heart rhythm
Term
Atelectasis
Definition
Partial collapse of the small airways in the lungs
Term
Atrial flutter/fibrillation
Definition
A very fast rregular arrhythmia of the heart, needs slowing or
Term
Cellulitis
Definition
Infection of the skin characterized by erythema, warmth, tenderness
Term
Cholecystitis
Definition
Inflammation of the gallbladder
Term
Cholelithiasis
Definition
Gallstone formation in the gallbladder
Term
Cirrhosis
Definition
Inflammation of an liver resulting in scarring and loss of function
Term

Decubitus

Definition

pressure sore on skin

Term
Diabetes Mellitus
Definition
Disease characterized by abnormally high blood sugar
Term

Endometriosis

Definition
Presence of functioning endometrial tissue outside of the uterus
Term

Exopthalmus

Definition

bulging eyes, often from thyroid disease

Term

Hemothorax

Definition

Blood fluid present in the pleural cavity (outside lung but in chest cavity)

Term

Hyperlipidemia

Definition

Elevation of cholesterol and or triglycerides in the blood

Term
Hypertension
Definition
Persistently high or arterial blood pressure
Term
Hysterectomy
Definition
Surgical removal of the uterus
Term
Ileus
Definition
Bowel lacks normal contractions, usually shows as air fluid levels on xrays
Term
Ischemia
Definition
Temporary and localized lack of blood flow
Term
MI
Definition
Myocardial infarction
Term
Myocardial infarction
Definition
heart attack (coronary artery occluded)
Term
Peritonsillar abscess
Definition
Abscess that forms behind the tonsil
Term
Pneumothorax
Definition
Abnormal presence of air in the pleural space (chest cavity) and outside of the
Term
Sepsis
Definition
Presence of pathological microorganisms or their toxins in the blood
Term
Status epilepticus
Definition
Continuous seizure activity
Term
Stenosis
Definition
Narrowing of a body opening or passage
Term
Syncope
Definition
Loss of consciousness
Term
Tinea
Definition
Superfi coal fungal infection of the skin
Term
Urinary retention
Definition
Large bladder due to obstruction
Term
Vestibulitis
Definition
Inflammation of balance mechanism in the inner ear causing dizziness
Term
ACRONYM
Definition
Meaning
Term
AAA
Definition
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Term
BIB
Definition
Brought in by
Term
BID
Definition

bis in die

Twice per day (refers to Rx)

Term
BLE
Definition
Bilateral lower extremities
Term
BSO
Definition
Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
Term
BTL
Definition
Bilateral tubal ligation
Term
BUE
Definition
Bilateral upper extremities
Term
C/O
Definition
Complains of
Term
C/w
Definition
Consistent with
Term
CA
Definition
Cancer
Term
CABG or CABS
Definition

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

Open heart surgery involving arterial bypass using a trans-

Term
CAD
Definition

coronary artery disease

 

Abnormal narrowing of the blood vessels of the heart, predis-

Term
CMT
Definition
Cervical Motion Tenderness
Term
COPD
Definition

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

 

Lung problem resulting in shortness of breath, usually from smoking

Term
CP
Definition
chest pain
Term
CSF
Definition
Cerebrospinal fluid
Term
CVA
Definition

Cerebral Vascular Accident

(Stroke)

Death of brain matter from loss of blood supply

Term
CW
Definition
Chest wall
Term
D5W
Definition
An IV solution that has only 5% sugar in it
Term
DDD
Definition
Degenerative disk disease
Term
DJD
Definition
Degenerative joint disease
Term
DKA
Definition
Diabetes Ketoacidosis
Term
DVT
Definition

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Clot in the deep veins of the leg or arm

Term
EF
Definition
ejection fraction
Term
EGD
Definition

EsophagoGastroDuodenoscopy

Upper GI endoscopy

Term
EMS
Definition
emergency medical services
Term
f/u
Definition
follow up
Term
FHR
Definition
fetal heart rate
Term
FHT
Definition
fetal heart tones
Term
G_P_A_
Definition
grava (pregnancies), para (live births), abortions (spontaneous or induced)
Term
GCS
Definition
Glasow Coma Scale
Term
GIB
Definition
Gastrointestinal bleed
Term
GSW
Definition
Gun Shot Wound
Term
IBS
Definition
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Term
ICH
Definition
Intracranial hemorrhage
Term
IUP
Definition
Intrauterine pregnancy
Term
IVC
Definition
Inferior vena cava
Term
LAFB
Definition
Left anterior fascicular block
Term
LBBB
Definition
Left bundle branch block
Term
LLE
Definition
Left lower extremity
Term
LLQ
Definition
Left lower quadrant
Term
LNMP
Definition
Last normal menstrual period
Term
LOC
Definition
Loss of consciousness
Term
LUE
Definition
Left upper extremity
Term
LUQ
Definition
Left upper quadrant
Term
LVH
Definition
Left ventricular hypertrophy
Term
MCA or MCC
Definition
Motorcycle accident
Term
MRA
Definition
Magnetic resonance angiogram
Term
MRSA/VRSA
Definition

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Vanomyocin resistant Staphylococcus aureus

 

two types of very resistant bacteria

Term
MVA
Definition
Motor vehicle accident
Term
NL
Definition
normal
Term
NSAID
Definition
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
Term
NSR
Definition
normal sinus rhythm
Term
NSVD
Definition
Normal Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery
Term
NTG
Definition
nitroglycerine
Term
OOT/OOA
Definition
out of town/area
Term
OTC
Definition
Over the counter
Term
PAT
Definition
Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia
Term
PE
Definition

Pulmonary Embolus

clot in the lung, often arising from leg veins or pelvis

Term
PMD/PCP
Definition
primary care doctor
Term
PRN
Definition
As needed (refers to Rx)
Term
PSVT
Definition
Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
Term
Pt
Definition
Patient
Term
PVC
Definition
Premature ventricular contraction
Term
PVD
Definition
peripheral vascular disease
Term
RA
Definition
Rheumatoid arthritis
Term
RLE
Definition
Right lower extremity
Term
RLQ
Definition
Right lower quadrant
Term
ROM
Definition
Range of motion
Term
RUE
Definition
Right upper extremity
Term
RUQ
Definition
Right upper quadrant
Term
RVR
Definition
Rapid ventricular response
Term
S/P
Definition
Status post
Term
SAB
Definition
Spontaneous abortion
Term
SAH
Definition
Subarachnoid hemorrhage
Term
SDH
Definition
Subdural hemorrhage
Term
SNF
Definition
Skilled nursing facility
Term
SOB
Definition
Shortness of breath
Term
SVT
Definition
Supraventricular tachycardia
Term
TAB
Definition
Therapeutic abortion
Term
TAH
Definition
Total abdominal hysterectomy
Term
TC
Definition
Traffic collision
Term
TGA
Definition
Transient global amnesia
Term
TGN
Definition
Trigeminal neuralgia
Term
TIA
Definition

Transient Ischemic Attack

 

“Minor stroke”, neurological function is regained with time

Term
TPA
Definition

Tissue Plasminogen Activator

Drug that immediately dissolves clots

Term
TTP
Definition
Tenderness to palpation
Term
URI
Definition
Upper respiratory infection
Term
VSS
Definition
Vital signs stable
Term
w/
Definition
With
Term
w/u
Definition
Work up
Term
WBC
Definition
White blood cells including leukocytes, monocytes, and others
Term
D&C
Definition
Dilation and curettage, a scraping of the lining of the uterus to remove all tissue
Term
DM
Definition
Diabetes Mellitus: there are types I and II
Term
GERD
Definition
Gastroesophageal relflux disease: acid reflux upwards from the stomach
Term
HTN
Definition
hypertension, or high blood pressure
Term
IVDA
Definition
Intravenous drug abuse
Term
MI
Definition
myocardial infarction or a heart attack. Implies death of heart muscle.
Term
PID
Definition
Pelvic inflammatory disease - and infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes
Term
UTI
Definition
Urinary Tract Infection: may be just bladder (cystitis) or kidney (pyelonephritis)
Term
IUD
Definition
Intra-uterine device (contraceptive)
Term
T&A
Definition
Tonsillectomy (and removal of adenoid tissue which is always done, hence the "A")
Term
TURP
Definition
Transurethral resection of the prostate - a procedure to open the urethra to allow urine to flow better - does not remove entire prostate gland
Term
Bx
Definition
Biopsy, but probably not a permitted abbreviation in most hospitals
Term
IVC filter
Definition
Inferior vena cava filter - a filter placed in the vena cava to stop clots from the leg reaching the lungs
Term
ASA
Definition
aspirin
Term
DT or tD or Tdap
Definition
Vaccination given to prevent Diptheria, Tetanus (and more recently Pertussis has been added)
Term
tPA
Definition
tissue plasminogen activating factor or "clot buster" drug
Term
A&O x 3
Definition
Alert and oriented to time, place, person
Term
LU UE RLE BUE
Definition
lower extremity (leg), upper extremity (arm), right lower extremity, bilateral upper extremity, etc
Term
CVA tenderness
Definition
Costovertebral angle tenderness - hurts when you push over the kidney from the back
Term
DTR
Definition
Deep tendon reflexes - those obtained with a reflex hammer
Term
EOM, FREOM
Definition
Extraocular movement, full range of EOM: refers to eye movements in all directions
Term
JVD
Definition
Jugular venous distension - a swollen vein in the neck caused by high right heart pressures seen in CHF
Term
NAD
Definition
No acute distress - very commonly used abbreviation for exam
Term
PERRL PERLA
Definition
Pupils equal, round and reactive to light; pupils equal and responsive to light and accommodation
Term
SLR
Definition
Straight leg raising: a test for sciatica
Term
ALOC
Definition
Altered Level of Consciousness
Term
AMS
Definition
Altered mental status - can apply to awakedness or confusion or agitation
Term
DOE
Definition
Dyspnea (breathlessness) on exertion
Term
Dx
Definition
Diagnosis
Term
FAST exam
Definition
Focussed Assessement with sonography in Trauma: a quick exam looking for free blood in the abdomen
Term
Fx
Definition
fracture
Term
H&P
Definition
History and physical exam
Term
I&D
Definition
Incision and drainage, typically of an abcess
Term
IM
Definition
intramuscular
Term
IV
Definition
intravenously
Term
LP
Definition
lumbar puncture: a needle put in the back to take out cerebral spinal fluid for examination
Term
NRB mask
Definition

Non-Rebreather Mask

 

Mask covering mouth and nose to deliver oxygen

Term
PO
Definition

per os

by mouth

Term
PND
Definition
Paroxysmal noctural dyspnea: having to sit up to breath during the night - sign of CHF
Term
PR
Definition

per rectum

administer rectally

Term
PTA
Definition
Prior to arrival
Term
Rx
Definition
Prescription
Term
Sx
Definition
symptoms
Term
Tx
Definition
treatment
Term
WNL
Definition
Within normal limits, or "normal"
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