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Medical Terminology Glossary G-L
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Glossary Terms M-R (140.0K)


macrophage  A type of phagocytic cell found in the liver, spleen, lungs, bone marrow, and connective tissue. Macrophages play several roles in humoral and cellmediated immunity, including presenting the antigens to the lymphocytes involved in these defenses; also known as monocytes while in the bloodstream.
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macula densa  An area of the distal convoluted tubule that touches afferent and efferent arterioles.
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macular degeneration  A progressive disease that usually affects people over the age of 50. It occurs when the retina no longer receives an adequate blood supply.
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magnetic resonance imaging  A viewing technique that uses a powerful magnetic field to produce an image of internal body structures.
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maintenance contract  A contract that specifies when a piece of quipment will be cleaned, checked for worn parts, and repaired.
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major histocompatibility complex  A large proteincomplex that plays a role in T cell activation.
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malignant  A type of tumor or neoplasm that is invasive and destructive and that tends to metastasize; it is commonly known as cancerous.
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malleus  A small bone in the middle ear that is attached to the eardrum; also called the hammer.
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malpractice claim  A lawsuit brought by a patient against a physician for errors in diagnosis or treatment.
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maltase  An enzyme that digests sugars.
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mammary glands  Accessory organs of the female reproductive system that secrete milk after pregnancy.
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mammography  X-rayexamination of the breasts.
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managed care organization  A health-care business that, throughmergers and buyouts, can deliver health care more cost-effectively.
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mandible  A bone that forms the lower portion of the jaw.
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manipulation  The systematic movement of a patient’s body parts.
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marrow  A substance that is contained in the medullary cavity. In adults, it consists primarily of fat.
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massage therapist  An individual who is trained to use pressure, kneading, and stroking to promote muscle and full-body relaxation.
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mastoid process  A large bump on each temporal bone just behind each ear. It resembles a nipple, hence the name mastoid.
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Material Safety Data Sheet  A form that is required for all hazardous chemicals or other substances used in the laboratory and that contains information about the product’s name, ingredients, chemical characteristics, physical and health hazards, guidelines for safe handling, and procedures to be followed in the event of exposure.
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matrix  The basic format of an appointment book, established by blocking off times on the schedule during which the doctor is able to see patients. The material between the cells of connectivetissue.
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matter  Anything that takes up space and has weight. Liquids, solids, and gases are matter.
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maturation phase  The third phase of wound healing, in which scar tissue forms.
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maxillae  A bone that forms the upper portion of the jaw.
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Mayo stand  A movable stainless steel instrument tray on a stand.
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medial  A directional term that describes areas closer to the midline of the body.
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Medicaid  A federally funded health cost assistance program for low-income, blind, and disabled patients; families receiving aid to dependent children; foster children; and children with birth defects.
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medical asepsis  Measures taken to reduce the number of microorganisms, such as hand washing and wearing examination gloves, that do not necessarily eliminate microorganisms; also called clean technique.
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medical practice act  A law that defines the exact duties that physicians and other healthcare personnel may perform.
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Medicare  A national health insurance program for Americans aged 65 and older.
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Medicare+ Choice Plan  Medicare benefit in which beneficiaries can choose to enroll in one of three major types of plans instead of the Original Medicare Plan.
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Medigap  Private insurance that Medicare recipients can purchase to reduce the gap in coverage—the amount they would have to pay from their own pockets after receiving Medicare benefits.
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medullary cavity  The canal that runs through the center of the diaphysis.
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megakaryocytes  Cells within red blood marrow that give rise to platelets.
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meiosis  A type of cell division in which each new cell contains only one member of each chromosome pair.
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melanin  A pigment that is deposited throughout the layers of the epidermis.
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melanocyte  A cell type within the epidermis that makes the pigment melanin.
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melatonin  A hormone that helps to regulate circadian rhythms.
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membrane potential  The potential inside a cell relative to the fluid outside the cell.
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meninges  Membranes that protect the brain and spinal cord.
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meningitis  An inflammation of the meninges.
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meniscus  The curve in the air-to-liquid surface of a liquid specimen in a container.
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menopause  The termination of the menstrual cycle due to the normal aging of the ovaries.
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menses  The clinical term for menstrual flow.
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menstral cycle  The female reproductive cycle. It consists of regular changes in the uterine lining that lead to monthly bleeding.
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mensuration  The process of measuring.
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mesoderm  The primary germ layer that gives rise to connective tissue and some epithelial tissue.
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metabolism  The overall chemical functioning of the body, including all body processes that build small molecules into large ones (anabolism) and break down large molecules into small ones (catabolism).
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metacarpals  The bones that form the palms of the hand.
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metastasis  The transfer of abnormal cells to body sites far removed from the original tumor.
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metatarsals  The bones  that form the front of the foot.
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microbiology  The study of microorganisms.
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microfiche  in rectangular sheets.
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microfilm  A roll of film stored on a reel and imprinted with information on a reduced scale to minimize storage space requirements.
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microorganism  A simple form of life, commonly made up of a single cell and so small that it can be seen only with a microscope.
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micropipette  A small pipette that holds a small, precise volume of fluid; used to collect capillary blood.
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microvilli  Structures found in the lining of the small intestine. They greatly increase the surface area of the small intestine so it can absorb many nutrients.
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micturition  The  process of urination.
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midsagittal  Anatomical term that refers to the plane that runs lengthwise down the midline of the body, dividing it into equal left and right halves.
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minerals  Natural,inorganic substances the body needs to help build and maintain body tissues and carry on life functions.
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minutes  A report of what happened and what was discussed and decided at a meeting.
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mirroring  Restating in your own words what a person is saying.
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misdemeanor  A less serious crime such as theft under a certain dollar amount or disturbing the peace. A misdemeanor is punishable by fines or imprisonment.
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mitosis  A type of cell division that produces ordinary body, or somatic, cells; each new cell receives a complete set of paired chromosomes.
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mitral valve  See bicuspid valve.
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mobility aids  Devices that improve one’s ability to move from one place to another; also called mobility assistive devices.
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modeling  The process of teaching the patient a new skill by having the patient observe and imitate it.
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modem  A device used to transfer information from one computer to another through telephone lines.
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modified-block letter style  A letter format similar to full-block style, except that the dateline, complimentary closing, signature block, and notations are aligned and begin at the center of the page or slightly to the right of center.
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modified-wave schedule  A scheduling system similar to the wave system, with patients arriving at planned intervals during the hour, allowing time to catch up before the next hour begins.
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modifier  One or more two-digit codes assigned to the fivedigit main code to show that some special circumstance applied to the service or procedure that the physician performed.
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molars  Back teeth that are flat and are designed to grind food.
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mold  Fungi that grow into large, fuzzy, multicelled organisms that produce spores.
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molecule  The smallest unit into which an element can be divided and still retain its properties; it is formed when atoms bond together.
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money order  A certificate of guaranteed payment, whichmay be purchased from a bank, a post office, or some convenience stores.
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monocytes  A large white blood cell with an oval or horseshoe-shaped nucleus that defends the body by phagocytosis; develops into a macrophage when it moves from blood into other tissues.
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monosaccharide  A type of carbohydrate that is a simple sugar.
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mons pubis  A fatty area that overlies the public bone.
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moral values  Values or types of behavior that serve as a basis for ethical conduct and are formed through the influence of the family, culture, or society.
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mordant  A substance, such as iodine, that can intensify or deepen the response a specimen  has to a stain.
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morphology  The study of the shape or form of objects.
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morula  A zygote that has undergone cleavage and results in a ball of cells.
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motherboard  The main circuit board of a computer that controls the other components in the system.
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motor  Efferent neurons that carry information from the central nervous system to the effectors.
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mucocutaneous exposure  Exposure to a pathogen through mucous membranes.
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mucosa  The innermost  layer of the wall of the alimentary canal.
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mucous cells  Cells that are found in the salivary glands and the lining of the stomach and that secrete mucous.
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MUGA scan  A radiologic procedure that evaluates the condition of the heart’s myocardium; it involves injection of radioisotopes that concentrate in the myocardium, followed by the use of a gamma camera to measure ventricular contractions to evaluate the patient’s heart wall.
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multimedia  More than one medium, such as in graphics, sound, and text used to convey information.
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multitasking  Running two or more computer software programs  simultaneously.
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multi-unit smooth muscle  A type of smooth muscle that is found in the iris of the eye and in the walls of blood vessels.
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murmur  An abnormal heart sound heard when the ventricles contract and blood leaks back into the atria.
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muscle tissue  A tissue type that is specialized to shorten and elongate.
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muscle fatigue  A condition caused by a buildup of lactic acid.
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muscle fiber  Muscle cells that are called fibers because of their long lengths.
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muscular dystrophy  A group of inherited disorders characterized by a loss of muscle tissue and by muscle weakness.
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mutation  An error that sometimes occurs when DNA is duplicated. When it occurs, it is passed to descendent cells and may or may not affect them in harmful Aways.
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myasthenia gravis  An autoimmune disorder that is characterized by muscle weakness.
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myelin  A fatty substance that insulates the axon and allows it to send nerve impulses quickly.
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myelography  An x-ray visualization of the spinal cord after the injection of a radioactive contrast medium or air into the spinal subarachnoid space (between the second and innermost of three membranes that cover the spinal cord). This test can reveal tumors, cysts, spinal stenosis, or herniated disks.
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myocardial infarction  A heart attack that occurs when the blood flow to the heart is reduced as a result of blockage in the coronary arteries or their branches.
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myocardium  The middle and thickest layer of the heart. It is made primarily of cardiac muscle.
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myofibrils  Long structures that fill the sarcoplasm of a muscle fiber.
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myoglobin  A pigment contained in muscle cells that stores extra oxygen.
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myoglobinuria  The presence of myoglobin in the urine; can be caused by injured or damaged muscle tissue.
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myometrium  The middle, thick muscular layer of the uterus.
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myopia  A condition that occurs when light entering the eye is focused in front of the retina; commonly called nearsightedness.
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myxedema  A severe type of hypothyroidism that is most common in women over the age of 50.
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nail bed  The layer beneath each nail.
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narcotic  A popular term for an opioid and term of choice in government agencies; see opioid.
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nasal  Relating to the nose. The nasal bones fuse to form the bridge of the nose.
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nasal conchae  Structures that extend from the lateral walls of the nasal cavity.
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nasal mucosa  The lining of the nose.
nasal septum  A structure that divides the nasal cavity into a left and right portion.
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nasolacrimal duct  A structure located on the medial aspect of each eyeball. These ducts drain tears into the nose.
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nasopharynx  The portion of the pharynx behind the nasal cavity.
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natural killer  Non-B and non-T lymphocytes. NK cells kill cancer cellsand virus-infected cells without previous exposure to the antigen.
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needle biopsy  A procedure in which a needle and syringe are used to aspirate (withdraw by suction) fluid or tissue cells.
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negligence  A medical professional’s failure to perform an essential action or performance of an improper action that directly results in the harm of a patient.
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negotiable  Legally transferable from one person to another.
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neonatal period  The first four weeks of the postnatal period of an offspring.
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neonate  An infant during the first four weeks of life.
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nephrologist  A specialist who studies, diagnoses, and manages diseases of the kidney.
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nephrons  Microscopic structures in the kidneys that filter blood and form urine.
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nerve fiber  A structure that extends from the cell body. It consists of two types: axons and dendrites.
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nerve impulse  Electrochemical messages transmitted from neurons to other neurons and effectors.
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nervous tissue  A tissue type located in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
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net earnings  Takehome pay, calculated by subtracting total deductions from grossearnings.
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network  A system that links several computers together.
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networking  Making contacts with relatives, friends, and acquaintances that may have information about how to find a job in your field.
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neuralgia  A medical condition characterized by severe pain along the distribution of a nerve.
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neuroglial cell  Non-neuronal type of nervous tissue that is smaller and more abundant than neurons. Neuroglial cells support neurons.
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neurologist  A specialist who diagnoses and treats disorders and diseases of the nervous system,including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
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neuron  A nerve cell; it carries nerve impulses between the brain or spinal cord and other parts of the body.
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neurotransmitter  A chemical within the vesicles of the synaptic knob that is released into the postsynaptic structures when a nerve impulse reaches the synaptic knob.
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neutrophil  A type of granular leukocyte that aids in phagocytosis by attacking bacterial invaders; also responsible for the release of pyrogens.
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new patient  Patient that, for CPT reporting purposes, has not received professional services from the physician within the past three years.
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nocturia  Excessive nighttime urination.
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noncompliant  The term used to describe a patient who does not follow the medical advice given.
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noninvasive  Referring to procedures that do not require inserting devices, breaking the skin, or monitoring to the degree needed with invasive procedures.
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nonsteroidal hormone  A type of hormone made of amino acids and proteins.
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norepinephrine  A neurotransmitter released by sympathetic neurons onto organs and glands for fight-or-flight (stressful) situations.
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normal flora  Beneficial bacteria found in the body that create a barrier against pathogens by producing substances that may harm invaders and using up the resources pathogens need to live.
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no-show  A patient who does not call to cancel and does not come to an appointment.
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nosocomial infection  An infection contracted in a hospital.
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Notice of Privacy Practices  A document that informs patients of their rights as outlined under HIPAA.
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nuclear medicine  The use of radionuclides, or radioisotopes(radioactive elements or their compounds), to evaluate the bone,brain, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas,thyroid, and spleen; also known as radionuclide imaging.
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nucleases  Pancreatic enzymes that digest nucleic acids.
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nucleus  The control center of a cell; contains the chromosomes that direct cellularprocesses.
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numeric filing system  A filing system that organizes files by numbers instead of names. Each patient is assigned a number in the order in which she joins the practice.
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O and P specimen  An ova and parasites specimen, or a stool sample, that is examined for the presence of certain forms of protozoans or parasites, including their eggs (ova).
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objective  Pertaining to data that is readily apparent and measurable, such as vital signs, test results, or physical examination findings.
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objectives  The set of magnifying lenses contained in the nosepiece of a compound microscope.
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occipital  Relating to the back of the head. The occipital bone forms the back of the skull.
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occult blood  Blood contained in some other substance, not visible to the naked eye.
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ocular  An eyepiece of a microscope.
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oil-immersion objective  A microscope objective that is designed to be lowered into a drop of immersion oil placed directly above the prepared specimen under examination, eliminating the air space between the microscope slide and the objective and producing a much sharper, brighter image.
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ointment  A form of topical drug; also known as a salve.
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Older Americans Act of 1965  A U.S. law that guarantees certain benefits to elderly citizens, including health care, retirement income, and protection against abuse.
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olfactory  Relating to the sense of smell.
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oliguria  Insufficient production (or volume) of urine.
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oncologist  A specialist who identifies tumors and treats patients who have cancer.
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onychectomy  The removal of a fingernail or toenail.
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oocyte  The immature egg.
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oogenesis  The process of egg cell formation.
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open-book account  An account that is open to charges made occasionally as needed.
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open hours scheduling  A system of scheduling in which patients arrive at the doctor’s office at their convenience and are seen on a first-come, firstserved basis.
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open posture  A position that conveys a feeling of receptiveness and friendliness; facing another person with arms comfortably at the sides or in the lap.
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ophthalmologist  A medical doctor who is an eye specialist.
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ophthalmoscope  A hand-held instrument with a light; used to view inner eye structures.
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opioid  A natural or synthetic drug that produces opium-like effects.
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optic chiasm  A structure located at the base of the brain where parts of the optic nerves cross. It carries visual information to the brain.
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optical microscope  A microscope that uses light, concentrated through a condenser and focused through the object being examined, to project an image.
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opportunistic infection  Infection by microorganisms that can cause disease only when a host’s resistance is low.
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optometrist  A trained and licensed vision specialist who is not a physician.
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orbicularis oculi  The muscle in the eyelid responsible for blinking.
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orbit  The eye socket, which forms a protective shell around the eye.
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organ  Structure formed by the organization of two or more different tissue types that carries out specific functions.
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organelle  A structure within a cell that performs a specific function.
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organic  Pertaining to matter that contains carbon and hydrogen.
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organism  A whole living being that is formed from organ systems.
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organ system  A system that consists of organs that join together to carry out vital functions.
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origin  An attachment site of a skeletal muscle that does not move when a muscle contracts.
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Original Medicare Plan  The Medicare feefor- service plan that allows the beneficiary to choose any licensed physician certified by Medicare.
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oropharynx  The portion of the pharynx behind the oral cavity.
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orthopedist  A specialist who diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders of the muscles and bones.
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OSHA  A set of regulations designed to save lives, prevent injuries,and protect the health of workers in the United States.
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osmosis  The diffusion of water across a semipermeable membrane such as a cell membrane.
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ossification  The process of bone growth.
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osteoblast  Boneforming cells that turn membrane into bone. They use excess blood calcium to build new bone.
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osteoclast  Bonedissolving cells. When bone is dissolved, calcium is released into the bloodstream.
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osteocyte  A cell of osseous tissue; also called a bone cell.
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osteon  Elongated cylinders that run up and down the long axis of bone.
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osteopathic manipulative medicine  A system of handson techniques that help relieve pain, restore motion, support the body’s natural functions, and influence the body’s structure. Osteopathic physicians study OMM in addition to medical courses.
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osteoporosis  An endocrine and metabolic disorder of the musculoskeletal system, more common in women than in men, characterized by hunched-over posture.
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osteosarcoma  A type of bone cancer that originates from osteoblasts, the cells that make bony tissue.
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otologist  A medical doctor who specializes in the health of the ear.
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otorhinolaryngologist  A specialist who diagnoses and treats diseases of the ear, nose, and throat.
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out guide  A marker made of stiff material and used as a placeholder when a file is taken out of a filing system.
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oval window  The beginning of the inner ear.
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overbooking  Scheduling appointments for more patients than can reasonably be seen in the time allowed.
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ovulation  The process by which the ovaries release one ovum (egg) approximately every 28 days.
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oxygen debt  A condition that develops when skeletal muscles are used strenuously for a minute or two.
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oxyhemoglobin  Hemoglobin that is bound to oxygen. It is bright red in color.
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oxytocin OT  A hormone that causes contraction of the uterus during childbirth and the ejection of milk from mammary glands during breast-feeding.
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packed red blood cells  Red blood cells that collect at the bottom of a centrifuged blood sample.
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palate  The roof of the mouth.
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palatine  Bones that form the anterior potion of the roof of the mouth and the palate.
palatine tonsils  Two masses of lymphatic tissue located at the back of the throat.
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palpation  A type of touch used by health-care providers to determine characteristics such as texture, temperature, shape, and the presence of movement.
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palpatory method  Systolic blood pressure measured by using the sense of touch. This measurement provides a necessary preliminary approximation of the systolic blood pressure to ensure an adequate level of inflation when the actual auscultatory measurement is made.
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palpitations  Unusually rapid, strong, or irregular pulsations of the heart.
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pancreatic amylase  An enzyme that digests carbohydrates.
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pancreatic lipase  An enzyme that digests lipids.
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panel  Tests frequently ordered together that are organ or disease oriented.
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papillae  The “bumps” of the tongue in which the taste buds are found.
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paranasal sinuses  Air-filled spaces within skull bones that open into the nasal cavity.
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parasite  An organism that lives on or in another organism and relies on it for nourishment or some other advantage to the detriment of the host organism.
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parasympathetic  A division of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for rest and digestion.
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parathyroid hormone  A hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the bloodstream.
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parenteral nutrition  Nutrition obtained when specially prepared nutrients are injected directly into patients’ veins rather than taken by mouth.
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paresthesias  Abnormal sensations ranging from burning to tingling.
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parietal  Bones that form most of the top and sides of the skull.
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parietal cells  Stomach cells that secrete hydrochloric acid, which is necessary to convert pepsinogen to pepsin Parietal cells also secrete intrinsic factor,which is necessary for vitamin B12 absorption.
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parietal pericardium  The layer on top of the visceral pericardium.
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parotid glands  The largest of the salivary glands. The parotid glands are located beneath the skin just in front of the ears.
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participating physicians  Physicians who enroll in managed care plans. They have contracts with MCOs that stipulate their fees.
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passive listening  Hearing what a person has to say without responding in any way; contrast with active listening.
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patch test  An allergy test in which a gauze patch soaked with a suspected allergen is taped onto the skin with nonallergenic tape; used to discover the cause of contact dermatitis.
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patella  The bone commonly referred to as the kneecap.
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pathogen  A microorganism capable of causing disease.
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pathologist  A medical doctor who studies the changes a disease produces in the cells, fluids, and processes of the entire body.
(See page(s) 2)
patient compliance  Obedience in terms of following a physician’s orders.
(See page(s) 38)
patient ledger card  A card containing information needed for insurance purposes, including the patient’s name, address, telephone number, Social Security number, insurance information, employer’s name, and any special billing instructions. It also includes the name of the person who is responsible for charges if this is anyone other than the patient.
(See page(s) 18)
patient record/chart  A compilation of important information about a patient’s medical history and present condition.
(See page(s) 9)
payee  A person who receives a payment.
(See page(s) 18)
payer  A person who pays a bill or writes a check.
(See page(s) 18)
pay schedule  A list showing how often an employee is paid,such as weekly, biweekly, or monthly.
(See page(s) 18)
pectoral girdle  The structure that attaches the arms to the axial skeleton.
(See page(s) 25)
pediatrician  A specialist who diagnoses and treats childhood diseases and teaches parents skills for keeping their children healthy.
(See page(s) 2)
pegboard system  A bookkeeping system that uses a lightweight board with pegs on which forms can be stacked, allowing each transaction to be entered and recorded on four different bookkeeping forms at once; also called the onewrite system.
(See page(s) 18)
pelvic girdle  The structure that attaches the legs to the axial skeleton.
(See page(s) 25)
pepsin  An enzyme that allows the body to digest proteins.
(See page(s) 31)
pepsinogen  Substance that is secreted by the chief cells in the lining of the stomach and becomes pepsin in the presence of acid.
(See page(s) 31)
peptidases  Enzymes that digest proteins.
(See page(s) 31)
percussion  Tapping or striking the body to hear sounds or feel vibration.
(See page(s) 38)
percutaneous exposure  Exposure to a pathogen through a puncture wound or needlestick.
(See page(s) 21)
pericardium  A membrane that covers the heart and large blood vessels attached to it.
(See page(s) 28)
perilymph  A fluid in the inner ear. When this fluid moves, it activates hearing and equilibrium receptors.
(See page(s) 33)
perimetrium  The thin layer that covers the myometrium of the uterus.
(See page(s) 35)
perimysium  The connective tissue that divides a muscle into sections called fascicles.
(See page(s) 26)
periosteumThe membrane that surrounds the diaphysis of a bone.  The membrane that surrounds the diaphysis of a bone.
(See page(s) 25)
peripheral nervous system  A system that consists of nerves that branch off the central nervous system.
(See page(s) 27)
peristalsis  The rhythmic muscular contractions that move food through the digestive tract.
(See page(s) 26)
personal space  A certain area that surrounds an individual and within which another person’s physical presence is felt as an intrusion.
(See page(s) 4)
petty cash fund  Cash kept on hand in the office for small purchases.
(See page(s) 18)
phagocyte  A specialized white blood cell that engulfs and digests pathogens.
(See page(s) 19)
phagocytosis  The process by which white blood cells defend the body against infection by engulfing invading pathogens.
(See page(s) 29)
phalanges  The bones of the fingers.
(See page(s) 25)
pharmaceutical  Pertaining to medicinal drugs.
(See page(s) 50)
pharmacodynamics  The study of what drugs do to the body: the mechanism of action, or how they work to produce a therapeutic effect.
(See page(s) 50)
pharmacognosy  The study of characteristics of natural drugs and their sources. (50)
(See page(s) 50)
pharmacokinetics  The study of what the body does to drugs: how the body absorbs, metabolizes,distributes, and excretes the drugs.
(See page(s) 50)
pharmacology  The study of drugs.
(See page(s) 50)
pharmacotherapeutics  The study of how drugs are used to treat disease; also called clinical pharmacology.
(See page(s) 50)
pharyngeal tonsils  Two masses of lymphatic tissue located above the palatine tonsils; also called adenoids.
(See page(s) 31)
pharynx  Structure below the mouth and nasal cavities that is an organ of the respiratory system as well as the digestive system.
(See page(s) 30)
phenylketonuria  A genetically inherited disorder in which the body cannot properly metabolize the nutrient phenylalanine, resulting in the buildup of phenylketones in the blood and their presence in the urine. The accumulation of phenylketones results in mental retardation.
(See page(s) 23)
philosophy  The system of values and principles an office has adopted in its everyday practice.
(See page(s) 14)
phlebotomy  The insertion of a needle or cannula (smalltube) into a vein for the purpose of withdrawing blood.
(See page(s) 48)
photometer  An instrument that measures light intensity.
(See page(s) 45)
physiatrist  A physical medicine specialist, who diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders with physical therapy.
(See page(s) 2)
physical therapy  A medical specialty that uses cold, heat, water, exercise, massage, traction, and other physical means to treat musculoskeletal, nervous, and cardiopulmonary disorders.
(See page(s) 43)
physician assistant  A health-care provider who practices medicine under the supervision of a physician.
(See page(s) 2)
physician’s office laboratory  A laboratory contained in a physician’s office; processing tests in the POL produces quick turnaround and eliminates the need for patients to travel to other test locations.
(See page(s) 45)
physiology  The science of the study of the body’s functions.
(See page(s) 23)
pineal body  A small gland located between the cerebral hemispheres that secretes melatonin.
(See page(s) 32)
pitch  The high or low quality in the sound of a person’s speaking voice.
(See page(s) 11)
placenta  An organ located between the mother and the fetus. It permits the absorption of nutrients and oxygen. In some cases, harmful substances such as viruses are absorbed through the placenta.
(See page(s) 35)
plantar flexion  Pointing the toes downward.
(See page(s) 26)
plasma  The fluid component of blood, in which formed elements are suspended; makes up 55% of blood volume.
(See page(s) 48)
plastic surgeon  A specialist who reconstructs, corrects, or improves body structures.
(See page(s) 2)
platelets  Fragments of cytoplasm in the blood that are crucial to clot formation; also called thrombocytes.
(See page(s) 48)
pleura  The membranes that surround the lungs.
(See page(s) 30)
pleuritis  A condition in which the pleura become inflamed, which causes them to stick together. It can also cause an excess amount of fluid to form between the membranes.
(See page(s) 30)
plexus  A structure that is formed when spinal nerves fuse together. It includes the cervical, brachial, and lumbosacral nerves.
(See page(s) 27)
pneumothorax  The presence of air or gas in the pleural cavity. The lung typically collapses with pneumothorax.
(See page(s) 30)
polar body  A nonfunctional cell that is one of two small cells formed during the division of an oocyte.
(See page(s) 35)
polarity  The condition of having two separate poles, one of which is positive and the other, negative.
(See page(s) 52)
polarized  The state in which the outside of a cell membrane is positively charged and the inside is negatively charged. Polarization occurs when a neuron is at rest.
(See page(s) 27)
polysaccharide  A type of carbohydrate that is a starch.
(See page(s) 31)
POMR  The problemoriented medical record system for keeping patients’ charts. Information in a POMR includes the database of information about the patient and the patient’s condition, the problem list, the diagnostic and treatment plan,and progress notes.
(See page(s) 9)
portfolio  A collection of an applicant’s résumé, reference letters, and other documents of interest to a potential employer.
(See page(s) 1)
positron emission tomography  A radiologic procedure that entails injecting isotopes combined with other substances involved in metabolic activity, such as glucose. These special isotopes emit positrons, which a computer processes and displays on a screen.
(See page(s) 53)
posterior  Anatomical term meaning toward the back of the body. Also called dorsal.
(See page(s) 23)
postnatal period  The period following childbirth.
(See page(s) 35)
postoperative  Taking place after a surgical procedure.
(See page(s) 42)
posture  Body position and alignment.
(See page(s) 43)
power of attorney  The legal right to act as the attorney or agent of another person, including handling that person’s financial matters.
(See page(s) 18)
practitioner  One who practices a profession.
(See page(s) 1)
preferred provider organization  A managed care plan that establishes a network of providers to perform services for plan members.
(See page(s) 15)
premenstrual syndrome  A syndrome that is a collection of symptoms that occur just before the menstrual period.
(See page(s) 35)
premium  The basic annual cost of health-care insurance.
(See page(s) 15)
prenatal period  The period that includes the embryonic and fetal periods until the delivery of the offspring.
(See page(s) 35)
preoperative  Taking place prior to surgery.
(See page(s) 42)
prepuce  A piece of skin in the uncircumcized male that covers the glans penis.
(See page(s) 35)
presbyopia  A common eye disorder that results in the loss of lens elasticity. Presbyopia develops with age and causes a person to have difficulty seeing objects close up.
(See page(s) 33)
prescribe  To give a patient a prescription to be filled by a pharmacy.
(See page(s) 50)
prescription  A physician’s written order for medication.
(See page(s) 50)
prescription drug  A drug that can be legally used only by order of a physician and must be administered or dispensed by a licensed health-care professional.
(See page(s) 50)
primary care physician  A physician who provides routine medical care and referrals to specialists.
(See page(s) 2)
primary germ layer  An inner cell mass that organizes into layers: the ectoderm, mesoderm,and endoderm.
(See page(s) 35)
prime mover  The muscle responsible for most of the movement when a body movement is produced by a group of muscles.
(See page(s) 26)
primordial follicle  A structure that develops in the ovarian cortex of a female infant before she is born.
(See page(s) 35)
Privacy Rule  Common name for the HIPAA Standard for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information, which provides the first comprehensive federal protection for the privacy of health information. The Privacy Rule creates national standards to protect individuals’ medical records and other personal health information.
(See page(s) 3)
procedure code  Codes that represent medical procedures, such as surgery and diagnostic tests, and medical services, such as an examination to evaluate a patient’s condition.
(See page(s) 16)
proctoscopy  An examination of the lower rectum and anal canal with a 3-inch instrument called a proctoscope to detect hemorrhoids,polyps, fissures, fistulas, and abscesses.
(See page(s) 41)
proficiency testing program  A required set of tests for clinical laboratories;the tests measure the accuracy of the laboratory’s test results and adherence to standard operating procedures.
(See page(s) 45)
progesterone  A female steroid hormone primarily produced by the ovary.
(See page(s) 32)
prognosis  A prediction of the probable course of a disease in an individual and the chances of recovery.
(See page(s) 38)
prolactin  A hormone that stimulates milk production in the mammary glands.
(See page(s) 32)
proliferation phase  The second phase of wound healing, in which new tissue forms,closing off the wound.
(See page(s) 42)
pronation  Turning the palms of the hand downward.
(See page(s) 26)
pronunciation  The sounding out of words.
(See page(s) 11)
proofreading  Checking a document for formatting, data, and mechanical errors.
(See page(s) 7)
prostaglandin  A local hormone derived from lipid molecules. Prostaglandins typically do not travel in the bloodstream to find their target cells because their targets are close by. This hormone  has numerous effects, including uterine stimulation during childbirth.
(See page(s) 32)
prostate gland  A chestnut-shaped gland that surrounds the beginning of the urethra in the male.
(See page(s) 35)
prostatitis  Inflammation of the prostate gland, which can be acute or chronic.
(See page(s) 35)
protected health information  Individually identifiable health information that is transmitted or maintained by electronic or other media,such as computer storage devices. The core of the HIPAA Privacy Ruleis the protection, use, and disclosure of protected health information.
(See page(s) 3)
proteinuria  An excess of protein in the urine.
(See page(s) 47)
protozoan  A singlecelled eukaryotic organism much larger than a bacterium; some protozoans can cause disease in humans.
(See page(s) 46)
protraction  Moving a body part anteriorly.
(See page(s) 26)
proximal  Anatomical term meaning closer to a point of attachment or closer to the trunk of the body.
(See page(s) 23)
proximal convoluted tubule  The portion of the renal tubule that is directly attached to the glomerular capsule and becomes the loop of Henle.
(See page(s) 34)
psoriasis  A common skin condition characterized by reddishsilver scaly lesions most often found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and trunk.
(See page(s) 24)
puberty  The period of adolescence when a person begins to develop secondary sexual traits and reproductive functions.
(See page(s) 40)
pulmonary circuit  The route that blood takes from the heart to the lungs and back to the heart again.
(See page(s) 28)
pulmonary trunk  A large artery that branches into the pulmonary arteries and carries blood to the lungs.
(See page(s) 28)
pulmonary valve  A heart valve that is a semilunar valve. It is situated between the right ventricle and the pulmonary trunk.
(See page(s) 28)
pubis  The area that forms the front of a hip bone.
(See page(s) 25)
pulmonary function test  A test that evaluates a patient’s lung volume and capacity; used to detect and diagnose pulmonary problems or to monitor certain respiratory disorders and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
(See page(s) 52)
puncture wound  A deep wound caused by a sharp, pointed object.
(See page(s) 42)
punitive damages  Money paid as punishment for intentionally breaking the law.
(See page(s) 17)
pupil  The opening at the center of the iris, which grows smaller or larger as the iris contracts or relaxes, respectively; it regulates the amount of light that enters the eye.
(See page(s) 33)
purchase order  A form that authorizes a purchase for the practice.
(See page(s) 8)
purchasing groups  Groups of medical offices associated with a nearby hospital that order supplies through the hospital to obtain a quantity discount.
(See page(s) 8)
Purkinje Fibers  fibers that are located in the lateral walls of the ventricles.
(See page(s) 28)
pyelonephritis  A jurinary tract infection that involves one or both of the kidneys.
(See page(s) 34)
pyrogens  Feverproducing substances released by neutrophils.
(See page(s) 48)
quadrants  Four equal sections, such as those into which the abdomen is figuratively divided during an examination.
(See page(s) 38)
qualitative analysis  In microbiology, identification of bacteria present in a specimen by the appearance of colonies grown on a culture plate.
(See page(s) 46)
qualitative test response  A test result that indicates the substance tested for is either present or absent.
(See page(s) 45)
quality assurance program  A required program for clinical laboratories designed to monitor the quality of patient care, including quality control, instrument and equipment maintenance, proficiency testing, training and continuing education, and standard operating procedures documentation.
(See page(s) 45)
quality control  An ongoing system, required in every physican’s office, to evaluate the quality of medical care provided.
(See page(s) 46)
quality control program  A component of a quality assurance program that focuses on ensuring accuracy in laboratory test results through careful monitoring of test procedures.
(See page(s) 45)
quantitative analysis  In microbiology, a determination of the number of bacteria present in a specimen by direct count of colonies grown on a culture plate.
(See page(s) 46)
quantitative test results  The concentration of a test substance in a specimen.
(See page(s) 45)
quarterly return  The Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return, a form submitted to the IRS every 3 months that summarizes the federal income and employment taxes withheld from employees’ paychecks.
(See page(s) 18)
radial artery  An artery located in the groove on the thumb side of the inner wrist, where the pulse is taken on adults.
(See page(s) 37)
radiation therapy  The use of x-rays and radioactive substances to treat cancer.
(See page(s) 53)
radiologist  A physician who specializes in taking and reading x-rays.
(See page(s) 2)
radius  The lateral bone of the forearm.
(See page(s) 25)
random access memory  The temporary, or programmable, memory in a computer.
(See page(s) 6)
random urine specimen  A single urine specimen taken at any time of the day; the most common type of sample collected.
(See page(s) 47)
range of motion  The degree to which a joint is able to move.
(See page(s) 43)
rapport  A harmonious, positive relationship.
(See page(s) 4)
read only memory  A computer’s permanent memory, which can be read by the computer but not changed. It provides the computer with the basic operating instructions it needs to function.
(See page(s) 6)
reagent  A chemical or chemically treated substance used in test procedures and formulated to react in specific ways when exposed under specific conditions.
(See page(s) 45)
reconciliation  A comparison of the office’s financial records with bank records to ensure that they are consistent and accurate; usually done when the monthly checking account statement is received from the bank.
(See page(s) 18)
records management system  How patient records are created, filed, and maintained.
(See page(s) 10)
recovery position  The position a person is placed in after receiving first aid for choking or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
(See page(s) 44)
rectum  The last section of the sigmoid colon that straightens out and becomes the anal canal.
(See page(s) 31)
reference  A recommendation for employment from a facility or a preceptor.
(See page(s) 54)
reference laboratory  A laboratory owned and operated by an organization outside the physician’s practice.
(See page(s) 45)
referral  An authorization from a medical practice for a patient to have specialized services performed by another practice;often required for insurance purposes.
(See page(s) 15)
reflex  A predictable automatic response to stimuli.
(See page(s) 27)
refraction examination  An eye examination in which the patient looks through a succession of different lenses to find out which ones create the clearest image.
(See page(s) 41)
refractometer  An optical instrument that measures the refraction, or bending, of light as it passes through a liquid.
(See page(s) 47)
Registered Medical Assistant  A medical assistant who has met the educational requirements and taken and passed the certification examination for medical assisting given by the American Medical Technologists (AMT).
(See page(s) 1)
relaxin  A hormone that comes from the corpus luteum. It inhibits uterine contractions and relaxes the ligaments of the pelvis in preparation for childbirth.
(See page(s) 35)
remittance advice  A form that the patient and the practice receive for each encounter that outlines the amount billed by the practice, the amount allowed, the amount of subscriber liability, the amount paid, and notations of any service not covered, including an explanation of why that service is not covered; also called an explanation of benefits.
(See page(s) 15)
renal calculi  Kidney stones.
(See page(s) 34)
renal column  The portion of the renal cortex between the renal pyramids.
(See page(s) 34)
renal corpuscle  Corpuscle that is composed of the glomerulus and the glomerular capsule. The filtration of blood occurs here.
(See page(s) 34)
renal cortex  The outermost layer of the kidney.
(See page(s) 34)
renal medulla  The middle portion of the kidney.
(See page(s) 34)
renal pelvis  The internal structure of the kidney. Urine flows from the renal pelvis down the ureter.
(See page(s) 34)
renal pyramids  Triangular-shaped areas in the medulla of the kidney.
(See page(s) 34)
renal sinus  The medial depression of a kidney.
(See page(s) 34)
renal tubule  Structure that extends from the glomerular capsule of a nephron and is comprised of the proximal convoluted tubule, the loop of Henle, and the distal convoluted tubule.
(See page(s) 34)
renin  A hormone secreted by the kidney that helps to regulate blood pressure.
(See page(s) 34)
repolarization  The process of returning to the original polar (resting) state.
(See page(s) 27)
reputable  Having a good reputation.
(See page(s) 8)
requisition  A formal request from a staff member or doctor for the purchase of equipment or supplies.
(See page(s) 8)
reservoir host  An animal, insect, or human whose body is susceptible to growth of a pathogen.
(See page(s) 19)
respiratory volume  The different volumes of air that move in and out of the lungs during different intensities of breathing.  These volumes can be measured to assess the healthiness of the respiratory system.
(See page(s) 30)
resource-based relative value scale  The payment system used by Medicare. It establishes the relative value units for services, replacing the providers’ consensus on usual fees.
(See page(s) 15)
résumé  A typewritten document summarizing one’s employment and educational history.
(See page(s) 1)
retention schedule  A schedule that details how long to keep different types of patient records in the office after they have become inactive or closed and how long the records should be stored.
(See page(s) 10)
retina  The inner layer of the eye; contains light-sensing nerve cells.
(See page(s) 33)
retraction  Moving a body part posteriorly.
(See page(s) 26)
retrograde pyelography  A radiologic procedure in which the doctor injects a contrast medium through a urethral catheter and takes a series of x-rays to evaluate function of the ureters, bladder,and urethra.
(See page(s) 53)
retroperitoneal  An anatomical term that means behind the peritoneal cavity. It is where the kidneys lie.
(See page(s) 34)
return demonstation  Participatory teaching method in which the technique is first described to the patient and then demonstrated to the patient; the patient is then asked to repeat the demonstration.
(See page(s) 14)
rhabdomyolysis  A condition in which the kidneys have been damaged due to toxins released from muscle cells.
(See page(s) 26)
Rh antigen  A protein first discovered on the red blood cells of rhesus monkeys, hence the name Rh.
(See page(s) 28)
RhoGAM  A medication that prevents an Rh-negative mother from making antibodies against the Rh antigen.
(See page(s) 28)
RNA  A nucleic acid used to make protein.
(See page(s) 23)
rods  Light-sensing nerve cells in the eye, at the posterior of the retina, that function in dim light but do not provide sharp images or detect color.
(See page(s) 33)
rosacea  A condition characterized by chronic redness and acne over the nose and cheeks.
(See page(s) 24)
rotation  Twisting a body part.
(See page(s) 26)
route  The way a drug is introduced into the body.
(See page(s) 51)







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