Common Medical Terms and Abbreviations Flashcards
7 cards from real CNA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Common Medical Terms and Abbreviations flashcards as text
What does the abbreviation 'NPO' mean in a patient's care plan?
Answer: Nothing by mouth
NPO stands for 'nil per os,' a Latin phrase meaning nothing by mouth, indicating the patient should not eat or drink.
The medical term 'dyspnea' refers to which symptom?
Answer: Difficulty breathing
Dyspnea means difficulty breathing or shortness of breath and is an important symptom to report immediately.
What does 'BID' mean when noted on a medication schedule?
Answer: Twice a day
BID is derived from the Latin 'bis in die,' meaning twice a day.
A patient's chart notes 'c/o chest pain.' What does 'c/o' mean?
Answer: Complains of
'c/o' is a standard charting abbreviation meaning 'complains of,' indicating what the patient is reporting.
What does the suffix '-ectomy' indicate in a medical term?
Answer: Surgical removal of
The suffix '-ectomy' means surgical removal, as in appendectomy (removal of the appendix).
What does 'HTN' stand for in medical documentation?
Answer: Hypertension
HTN is the standard abbreviation for hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure.
The term 'edema' describes which condition?
Answer: Swelling caused by fluid accumulation
Edema refers to swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in body tissues, often seen in the ankles and legs.