Healthcare Aide Medical Terminology & Procedures Flashcards

What does the medical abbreviation 'PRN' stand for?

Answer: As needed

The medical abbreviation 'PRN' stands for 'pro re nata,' which translates to 'as needed.' This term is commonly used in medication orders to indicate that a medication should be administered only when the patient exhibits specific symptoms or conditions, allowing for flexible and responsive care based on individual patient needs.

Which of the following is a standard patient positioning technique?

Answer: Fowler’s position

Fowler's position is a common patient positioning technique where the patient is placed in a semi-sitting position, typically with the head of the bed elevated between 30 and 90 degrees. This position is often used to improve breathing, promote comfort, and facilitate activities like eating or reading.

What does the term 'tachycardia' refer to?

Answer: Fast heart rate

Tachycardia is a medical term derived from Greek roots, where 'tachy-' means fast and 'cardia' refers to the heart. It specifically describes a condition where the heart beats at an abnormally rapid rate, typically over 100 beats per minute in adults. Recognizing this term is crucial for healthcare aides to identify potential patient distress or underlying medical conditions.

Which of the following is a key step in performing hand hygiene?

Answer: Washing hands for at least 20 seconds

Effective hand hygiene is fundamental in preventing infection spread. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds ensures sufficient time for the soap to emulsify dirt and microbes, and for friction to dislodge them. This duration is recommended by health organizations like the CDC to significantly reduce the presence of pathogens on the hands.

Which procedure is used to measure a patient's blood pressure?

Answer: Sphygmomanometry

Sphygmomanometry is the medical procedure used to measure a patient's blood pressure. This involves using a sphygmomanometer, which consists of an inflatable cuff, a manometer to read pressure, and a mechanism for inflation and deflation. This method accurately assesses the force of blood against artery walls, providing vital information about cardiovascular health.

What does the term 'cyanosis' indicate in a patient?

Answer: Bluish discoloration of the skin

Cyanosis is a clinical sign indicating inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It manifests as a bluish or purplish discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, or nail beds. This occurs when there is a high concentration of deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood, signaling a potentially serious respiratory or circulatory issue that requires immediate attention.