Medical Glossary
Find definitions of the most common medical and first aid terms.
163 terms in the glossary
A
Stroke (CVA)
A stroke is a sudden neurological deficit caused by cerebral infarction or hemorrhage.
→Angina Pectoris
Angina pectoris is chest pain caused by reduced blood supply to the heart muscle.
→Pulmonary History
Pulmonary history describes previously diagnosed respiratory diseases or conditions.
→Cardiac History
Cardiac history refers to previous events or conditions affecting the heart or blood vessels.
→Anticoagulants
Anticoagulants are medications that prevent blood clotting by inhibiting clot formation.
→Cardiophrenic Angle
The cardiophrenic angle is the angle formed between the heart silhouette and the diaphragm.
→Cardiac Arrhythmia
Cardiac arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder where the heart beats irregularly.
→Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a disease of large and medium arteries caused by plaque buildup on vessel walls.
→Arteriosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis is a physiological aging process causing hardening and narrowing of arterial walls.
→Arteries
Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the organs.
→Left Pulmonary Artery
The left pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the left lung.
→Right Pulmonary Artery
The right pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs.
→Allergies
An allergy is an excessive immune system response to normally harmless substances.
→AVPU Scale
The AVPU scale is a method for rapidly assessing a victim's level of consciousness: Alert, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive.
→Altered Level of Consciousness
Changes in the level and type of consciousness, ranging from confusion to coma.
→Cardiac Arrest in Pregnant Women
In cardiac arrest during pregnancy, elevating the right flank improves venous return to the heart.
→Cardiac Arrest in Children
Cardiac arrest in children is almost always preceded by respiratory arrest.
→Malleable Splint
A malleable splint is a flexible medical device for temporary immobilization of musculoskeletal injuries.
→Aortic Arch
The aortic arch is the curved portion of the thoracic aorta, the largest vessel in the circulatory system.
→Thoracic Aorta
The thoracic aorta is the major section of the aorta located within the mediastinum.
→B
Thermal Burns
Thermal burns are injuries caused by heat sources such as fire, hot water, or steam.
→Compression Bandage
A compression bandage applies controlled pressure to stop bleeding and reduce swelling.
→Inhalation Burns
Inhalation burns occur when airways are exposed to chemicals, vapors, gases, or toxic fumes.
→Chemical Burns
Chemical burns are tissue damage caused by exposure to corrosive chemical substances.
→Burns
Burns are damage to skin or soft tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation.
→Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation
Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation delivers air to the lungs when breathing has stopped or is ineffective.
→Botulism
Botulism is a rare, serious disease caused by botulinum neurotoxin produced by anaerobic bacteria.
→Eye Injuries
Eye injuries can be caused by sharp objects, foreign bodies, chemicals, or ultraviolet rays.
→Elastic Bandage
An elastic bandage is a stretchable medical device for securing dressings and applying compression.
→Triangular Bandage
A triangular bandage is a triangle-shaped cloth used to secure injuries and create arm slings.
→Electrical Burns
Electrical burns are injuries caused by electric current that can damage tissues and internal organs.
→Injury
An injury is physical damage or harm to the body's physical integrity.
→C
Aortic Arch
The aortic arch is the curved second portion of the thoracic aorta.
→Mechanism of Injury
Kinetic energy in trauma is proportional to the square of velocity.
→Systemic Circulation
Systemic circulation carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the entire body and returns it.
→Chest Compressions (Airway Obstruction)
Chest compressions are a first aid technique to dislodge foreign body airway obstructions.
→C-A-B (Compressions-Airway-Breathing)
The C-A-B approach starts CPR with chest compressions, followed by airway management and breathing.
→Lung Capacity
Lung capacity refers to the volume of air the lungs can hold and overall respiratory function.
→Capillaries
Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels connecting arterioles to venules for gas exchange.
→Cardiac Surgery
Cardiac surgery encompasses procedures aimed at correcting heart problems and restoring function.
→Pulmonary Circulation
Pulmonary circulation carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for gas exchange.
→Clavicles
The clavicles are bones connecting the sternum to the scapula at the base of the neck.
→Abdominal Compress
An abdominal compress is a medical dressing designed to cover and protect abdominal wounds.
→Instant Cold Pack
An instant cold pack is a first aid device that rapidly cools injuries to reduce pain and swelling.
→Non-Adherent Dressing
Non-adherent dressings protect wounds while preventing the dressing material from sticking to tissue.
→Convulsions
Convulsions are violent involuntary muscle contractions caused by a nervous system disturbance.
→Foreign Body in an Orifice
Foreign bodies in an orifice pose a significant risk, especially for children under 3 years old.
→Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a severe form of hyperthermia caused by excessive heat accumulation in the body.
→Oval Eye Pad
Oval eye pads are soft medical devices used to protect and cover eye injuries.
→Emergency Rescue Blanket
Emergency rescue blankets made of reflective Mylar provide vital thermal protection for victims.
→Muscle Cramp
A muscle cramp is an involuntary, painful, temporary contraction of one or more muscles.
→Febrile Seizures
Febrile seizures are convulsions triggered by high fever, most common in children aged 1 to 5.
→D
AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
An AED is a portable device that analyzes heart rhythm and delivers shocks during cardiac arrest.
→Airway Clearance
Airway clearance is a primary concern for rescuers to ensure the upper airway remains patent.
→Allergic Dyspnea
Allergic dyspnea is breathing difficulty caused by an exaggerated immune response to allergens.
→Traumatic Dyspnea
Traumatic dyspnea is breathing difficulty caused by trauma to the upper respiratory tract.
→Defibrillator (Adult)
An AED analyzes cardiac activity and delivers electrical shocks to restore normal rhythm in adults.
→Defibrillator (Child)
In rare cases, a child's heart may be in ventricular fibrillation requiring defibrillation.
→Defibrillator Safety Precautions
Safety precautions when using an AED are essential to avoid accidental electrocution risks.
→Defibrillation (Adult)
Defibrillation delivers an electrical current through the heart to restore normal cardiac rhythm.
→Defibrillation (Child & Infant)
Cardiac arrest in children is rarely caused by ventricular fibrillation but may still require defibrillation.
→Infant Airway Clearance
The Mofenson method is an airway clearance technique for infants with throat obstruction.
→Respiratory Distress
Respiratory distress (dyspnea) is difficulty breathing that can be inspiratory or expiratory.
→Gastric Distension
Gastric distension occurs when the stomach fills with air, creating a risk of regurgitation.
→Diabetes
Diabetes is a metabolic syndrome characterized by increased urine production and excessive thirst.
→E
Evisceration
Evisceration is the protrusion of abdominal organs through an open abdominal wound.
→Level of Consciousness in Infants
Infants have an involuntary grasping reflex in the first months of life used to assess consciousness.
→Burn Assessment
The evaluation of burn severity, depth, and extent to determine the appropriate first aid treatment.
→Triangular Bandage
A versatile triangle-shaped medical device used in first aid for slings, splints, and wound dressings.
→Splinters
Splinters are small pieces of wood, glass, or sharp material that can embed in the skin.
→Encephalitis
Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain causing headaches and consciousness disorders.
→Frostbite
Frostbite is cold-induced tissue damage occurring at temperatures below 0°C (32°F).
→Sprains and Strains
A sprain is a ligament injury caused by stretching or tearing of connective tissue.
→Shock
Shock is acute circulatory failure causing insufficient oxygen delivery to cells and organs.
→Level of Consciousness
Level of consciousness assessment is the first step of neurological evaluation for accident victims.
→Epistaxis (Nosebleed)
Epistaxis is a nosebleed that can be caused by hypertension, nose picking, or facial trauma.
→F
Fractures
A fracture is a break in a bone that can be open, closed, displaced, or comminuted.
→Normal Respiratory Rate
Respiratory rate is a vital sign like pulse and blood pressure, varying by age group.
→Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder with rapid, irregular atrial contractions.
→Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Cardiovascular risk factors include age, sex, genetics, hypertension, diabetes, and smoking.
→G
Glasgow Coma Scale
The Glasgow Coma Scale evaluates neurological function by assessing eye, verbal, and motor responses.
→Tourniquet
A tourniquet is a device used to temporarily stop severe bleeding by compressing a limb.
→Gauze
Gauze is a versatile medical material used for covering, protecting, and promoting wound healing.
→H
Therapeutic Hypothermia
A controlled cooling technique used to protect the brain of an unconscious victim after cardiac arrest.
→Heimlich Maneuver
The Heimlich maneuver is a first aid technique using abdominal thrusts for complete airway obstruction.
→Hemorrhage
Bleeding resulting from blood escaping outside its normal vascular pathways.
→Arterial Hypertension
High blood pressure characterized by persistently elevated arterial pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
→Hypothermia
A dangerous drop in core body temperature below 35°C (95°F), impairing normal vital functions.
→External Hemorrhage
Significant blood loss from a visible rupture of a blood vessel through the skin.
→Internal Hemorrhage
Significant blood loss from a ruptured internal blood vessel, not visible externally.
→I
Hypoxic Unconsciousness
Loss of consciousness caused by insufficient oxygen supply to the brain.
→Household Product Poisoning
Poisoning from household cleaning products, the second most common cause of accidental poisoning after medications.
→Accidental Poisoning
Unknowing consumption or exposure to a harmful or toxic substance.
→Central Nervous System Infection
Infections affecting the brain and spinal cord, including meningitis and encephalitis.
→Poisoning
A set of disorders caused by the absorption of a toxic foreign substance into the body.
→Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Poisoning caused by inhaling carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas.
→Intentional Poisoning
Deliberate ingestion of toxic substances, whether for self-harm or substance abuse.
→Food Poisoning
Illness contracted through the consumption of contaminated food or beverages.
→Nurse
Healthcare professionals trained to provide quality patient care, treatment, and health education.
→Occupational Poisoning
Poisoning risk for workers regularly exposed to chemicals in the workplace.
→L
Duty to Act (Good Samaritan Law)
Law protecting individuals who assist victims in emergency situations.
→Ligamentum Arteriosum
A fibrous ligament in the thoracic cavity, remnant of the fetal ductus arteriosus connecting the aorta to the pulmonary artery.
→Dislocation
Complete loss of contact between the articular surfaces of a joint.
→M
Meningitis
A serious infection of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
→Chest Compressions (Cardiac Massage)
A CPR technique involving rhythmic chest compressions to manually pump blood when the heart stops.
→Malaise
A general feeling of discomfort or illness that may indicate various underlying conditions or injuries.
→Bites
Injuries caused by the mouth of an animal or human, carrying risk of infection and tissue damage.
→N
CPR Training Levels
The different CPR certification levels for adults, children, and infants.
→Drowning
Asphyxia caused by submersion or immersion of the respiratory tract in a liquid.
→Infant Soft Trachea (Tracheomalacia)
A condition in infants where the tracheal cartilage rings are relatively soft, affecting airway stability.
→Infant Cranial Development
The rapid evolution of an infant's head circumference during the first two years of life.
→O
Right Atrium
One of the two upper chambers of the heart, receiving deoxygenated blood from the body via the venae cavae.
→Airway Obstruction
A blockage of the air passages causing breathing difficulty, which can be partial or complete.
→Airway Obstruction (Victim Alone)
Self-rescue techniques for a person choking when alone: call for help and move to a public area.
→Orientation
Mental status assessment evaluated separately from AVPU using three spheres: place, identity, and time.
→Osteoporosis
A disease of excessive skeletal fragility caused by decreased bone mass and deterioration of bone structure.
→Opioid
A class of medications acting on the central nervous system to relieve pain, with risk of dependence and overdose.
→Left Atrium
One of the two upper chambers of the heart, receiving oxygenated blood from the lungs via the pulmonary veins.
→Impaled Object
A penetrating trauma where a foreign object remains embedded in the body.
→Antibiotic Ointment
Topical medication containing antibiotics for external application on minor wounds to prevent infection.
→P
Venomous Wounds
Injuries caused by bites or stings from venomous animals, requiring specific first aid protocols.
→Thoracic Wound
Trauma to the chest caused by an external blow affecting the rib cage, lungs, or heart.
→Recovery Position
A stable side-lying position used to keep the airways open in unconscious but breathing victims.
→Pacemaker
An implanted medical device that sends electrical impulses to maintain a regular heart rhythm.
→Lung
Paired intrathoracic organs responsible for gas exchange between inhaled air and the blood.
→Adhesive Bandage
A sterile dressing used to cover and protect small superficial wounds from contamination.
→Plastic Eye Shield
A rigid plastic shield used to protect the eyes during trauma or when treating nearby injuries.
→R
Adhesive Tape
Medical tape for securing dressings; its direct use on wounds is discouraged due to infection risk.
→Rhinitis
Inflammation of the nasal mucosa causing runny nose, congestion, and sneezing.
→Breathing in Adults, Children, and Infants
Vital function for gas exchange, varying by age group.
→Gauze Roll
A fundamental first aid supply used for covering, protecting, and securing dressings on skin wounds.
→Emergency Medical Dispatcher
A trained professional who receives emergency calls, provides pre-arrival instructions, and coordinates the response.
→Senior Residences
Private senior residences (RPA) offering adapted housing and support services for elderly residents.
→Radiography (X-Ray)
A medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to visualize the internal structures of the body.
→CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
A life-saving technique combining chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain organ perfusion during cardiac arrest.
→S
First Aid for Private Senior Residences
The importance of first aid training for staff working in private senior residences.
→Strangulation
External compression of the carotid arteries and/or trachea, cutting off blood and air supply.
→Sinusitis
Inflammation of the sinuses caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infections.
→Shaken Baby Syndrome
A form of abusive head trauma in infants that can cause severe brain lesions and developmental disorders.
→Daycare Safety and Prevention
Safety measures, protocols, and prevention strategies to protect children from hazards in daycare settings.
→Limb Severance
Complete or partial separation of a limb caused by trauma or surgery.
→T
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
An injury to the brain caused by physical impact, potentially resulting in cognitive and neurological impairments.
→Insect Sting Trauma
Injury caused by insect stings or bites, which may trigger allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.
→Pulmonary Trunk
A large artery arising from the right ventricle that divides into the left and right pulmonary arteries.
→External Ear Trauma
Injuries to the outer ear including lacerations, cartilage damage, and bites.
→Inner Ear Trauma
Damage to the inner ear causing pain, hemorrhage, and hearing loss.
→Transdermal Patch
A medicated adhesive patch placed on the skin to deliver a controlled dose of medication through the dermis.
→Trauma
A physical or psychological injury resulting from an accident, violence, or stressful event.
→Head and Spinal Injuries
Injuries to the head and spine, common in young people involved in road accidents and high-impact activities.
→V
Mitral Valve
A heart valve that separates the left atrium from the left ventricle, ensuring unidirectional blood flow.
→Left Ventricle
One of the two lower chambers of the heart, pumping oxygenated blood to the body via the aorta.
→Left Pulmonary Veins
Veins that carry oxygen-rich blood from the left lung to the left atrium of the heart.
→Bone Aging
Age-related bone deterioration where bones become fragile and regenerate less efficiently, increasing fracture risk.
→Excessive Ventilation (Hyperventilation)
Over-ventilation during CPR that increases intrathoracic pressure, reducing venous return and cardiac output.
→Aortic Valve
One of the four main heart valves, separating the left ventricle from the aorta to prevent backflow.
→Veins
Blood vessels that carry CO2-rich blood from the periphery back to the heart, equipped with valves to ensure flow direction.
→Pulmonary Valve
An arterial valve controlling the flow of deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery.
→Right Ventricle
One of the two lower chambers of the heart, pumping deoxygenated blood to the lungs via the pulmonary artery.
→Tricuspid Valve
A heart valve that separates the right atrium from the right ventricle, preventing blood backflow.
→Inferior Vena Cava
The large vein in the abdomen that returns deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the right atrium.
→Superior Vena Cava
The large vein that returns deoxygenated blood from the upper body, head, and arms to the right atrium.
→Pulmonary Ventilation
The process of renewing air in the lungs through the action of the respiratory muscles.
→Right Pulmonary Veins
Veins that carry oxygenated blood from the right lung to the left atrium of the heart.
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