NBCMI - National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters Medical Terminology: Procedures 1

Question 1

What is a 'catheterization' in a medical context?

Accepted Answer

Insertion of a thin tube into a body cavity or vessel to drain fluid or deliver treatment

Answer

Catheterization involves inserting a catheter (thin flexible tube) into a body cavity, duct, or vessel. It is commonly used to drain urine from the bladder or to access the heart and blood vessels during cardiac procedures.

Question 2

What does the term 'laparoscopy' describe?

Accepted Answer

A minimally invasive procedure using a small camera inserted through tiny incisions in the abdomen

Answer

Laparoscopy uses a laparoscope — a thin tube with a camera — inserted through small incisions in the abdomen. It allows surgeons to view and operate on internal organs with minimal tissue disruption compared to open surgery.

Question 3

What is an 'angioplasty'?

Accepted Answer

A procedure to widen narrowed or blocked blood vessels, often using a balloon

Answer

Angioplasty is a procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. A small balloon is inflated inside the artery to compress plaque and restore blood flow, often followed by placement of a stent.

Question 4

What is a 'lumbar puncture' (spinal tap) used for?

Accepted Answer

To collect cerebrospinal fluid from the lower spine for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes

Answer

A lumbar puncture involves inserting a needle between lumbar vertebrae to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The CSF can be analyzed to diagnose conditions such as meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or bleeding around the brain.

Question 5

What does 'intubation' refer to in a clinical procedure?

Accepted Answer

Inserting a tube into the trachea to maintain an open airway and assist breathing

Answer

Endotracheal intubation involves passing a tube through the mouth or nose and into the trachea (windpipe). It is performed to secure the airway during surgery, emergencies, or when a patient cannot breathe adequately on their own.

NBCMI - National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters Practice Test

NBCMI - National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters Practice Test

NBCMI - National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters Medical Terminology: Procedures 1