Term
|
Definition
| A type of radio signal in the ultra-high frequency range that allows splitting a frequency into individual talk groups used as a communication link with other system users. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A set of three numbers that automatically sends the call to the emergency dispatch center. E9-1-1 is enhanced 9-1-1, which gives the dispatcher the ability to determine the caller's location by routing the
call through several CAD systems. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
Terminating care when it is still needed
and desired by the patient and without ensuring that appropriate care continues to be provided by another qualified health care professional. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| A shorter way of writing something. |
|
|
Term
| Abdominal compartment syndrome |
|
Definition
Syndrome caused by diffuse intestinal edema, a result of fluid accumu
lation in the bowel wall. It may be caused by overre suscitation with crystalloids and results in shock and renal failure. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
An injury in which a severe laceration or incision of the abdomen breaches through all layers of muscle to allow abdominal contents, most often the intestines, to protrude above
the surface of the skin. |
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Term
|
Definition
|
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Term
|
Definition
| The ending of a pregnancy for any reason before 20 weeks' gestation; the lay term miscarriage is referred to as a spontaneous abortion |
|
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Term
|
Definition
Separation of the placenta from the
uterine wall after the twentieth week of gestation. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
|
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Term
|
Definition
| A generalized seizure characterized by a blank stare and an alteration of consciousness. |
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|
Term
| Absolute refractory period |
|
Definition
| Corresponds with the onset of the QRS complex to approximately the peak of the T wave; cardiac cells cannot be stimulated to conduct an electrical impulse. no matter how strong the stimulus. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
Movement of small organic molecules, elec
trolytes, vitamins, and water across the digestive tract and into the circulatory system. Also the movement of a drug from the site of input into the circulation |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Use of a substance for other than its approved, accepted purpose or in a greater amount than prescribed |
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Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of the gallbladder in the absence of gallstones. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| A grief stage in which the individual has come to terms with the reality of his or her (or a loved one's) imminent death. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Muscles of the neck, chest, and abdomen that become active during labored breathing. |
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Term
|
Definition
| An extra bundle of working myocar dial tissue that forms a connection between the atria and ventricles outside the normal conduction system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Recognition given to an EMD center
by an independent auditing agency for achieving a consistently high level of performance based on indus try best practice standards. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A mechanism in which a drug is processed
by enzymes |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A body chemical that stops the action of acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter involved in the stimulation of nerves) |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Fluid produced in the stomach; breaks down the food material within the stomach into chyme. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Delicate balance between the body's acidity and alkalinity |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Materials that have a pH value less than 7.0
(e.g., hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Specific immunity directed at a particular pathogen that develops after the body has been exposed to it once (e.g., immunity to chickenpox after first exposure). |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Listening to the words that the patient is saying as well as paying attention to the significance of those words to the patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The degree of movement at
a joint as determined by the patient's own voluntary movements. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A process used to move substances
against the concentration gradient or toward the side that has a higher concentration; requires the use of energy by the cell but is faster than diffusion
A process used to move substances
against the concentration gradient or toward the side that has a higher concentration; requires the use of energy by the cell but is faster than diffusion |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| A sudden blockage of arterial blood flow that occurs because of a thrombus, embolus, tumor, direct trauma to an artery, or an unknown cause |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Short-term medical treatment usually
provided in a hospital for patients who have an illness or injury or who are recovering from surgery. |
|
|
Term
| Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) |
|
Definition
A term used to refer
to patients presenting with ischemic chest discomfort. Acute coronary syndromes consist of three major syndromes: unstable angina, non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An exposure that occurs over a short timeframe (less than 24 hours); usually occurs at a spill or release. |
|
|
Term
| Acute renal failure (ARF) |
|
Definition
| When the kidneys suddenly stop functioning, either partially or completely, but even tually recover full or nearly full functioning over time. |
|
|
Term
| Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) |
|
Definition
| Collection of fluid in the alveoli of the lung, usually as a result of trauma or serious illness. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The involvement in a repetitive behavior
(gambling, substance abuse, etc.). In physical addiction
the individual has become dependent on an external substance and develops physical withdrawal symptoms if the substance is unavailable. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The involvement in repetitive behavior such as gambling or substance abuse. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The combined effect of two drugs given at the same time that have similar effects. |
|
|
Term
| Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) |
|
Definition
| Formed from metabolism of nutrients in the cell; serves as an energy source throughout the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A fat cell; a connective tissue cell that has differentiated and become specialized in the synthesis (manufacture) and storage of fat. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
connective tissue Tissue that stores lipids; acts as an insulator and protector of the organs
of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A branch of law that deals with rules, regulations, orders, and decisions created by governmental agencies. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Having the characteristics of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Hormones released by the
adrenal cortex essential for life; assist in the regulation
of blood glucose levels, promote peripheral use of lipids, stimulate the kidneys to reabsorb sodium, and have antiinflammatory effects. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| To gather or stick to a surface in a condensed layer. |
|
|
Term
| Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) |
|
Definition
| A life threatening condition that causes lung swelling and fluid buildup in the air sacs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A document in which a competent person gives instructions to be followed regarding his or her health care in the event the person later becomes incapacitated and unable to make or commu nicate those decisions to others. |
|
|
Term
| Advanced emergency medical technician (AEMT) |
|
Definition
| An EMS professional who provides basic and limited advanced skills to patients who access the EMS system. |
|
|
Term
| Adverse effect (reaction) |
|
Definition
An unintentional, undesirable,
and often unpredictable effect of a drug used at therapeutic doses to prevent, diagnose, or treat disease. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A person who assists another person in carry
ing out desired wishes; a paramedic should function as a patient's advocate in all aspects of prehospital care. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A collection of particles dispersed in a gas. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Description of the patient's visible emotional state. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Nerve fibers that send impulses from
the periphery to the central nervous system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The intensity or strength of the attraction between a drug and its receptor. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Pressure or resistance against which the ventricles must pump to eject blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Stereotypical and often negative bias against older adults. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Slow, shallow, irregular respirations resulting from anoxic brain injury. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A drug that causes a physiologic response in the receptor to which it binds. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A drug that blocks a receptor.
It may provide a partial agonist activity, but it also prevents an agonist from exerting its full effects |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Consistent anxiety and avoidance of places and situations where escape during a panic attack would be difficult or embarrassing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Bubble of air that has entered the vasculature.
Emboli can result in damage similar to a clot in the vasculature, typically resulting in brain injury or pulmonary emboli when neck vessels are damaged. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Introduction of air into venous circulation, which can ultimately enter the right ventricle, closing off circulation to the pulmonary artery and leading to death. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A respiratory pattern associated with an obstruction in the pulmonary tree; the breathing rate increases to overcome resistance in getting air out, the respiratory effort becomes more shallow, the volume of trapped air increases, and the lungs inflate. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The various shapes, sizes, colors, and styles of visual identification labels indicating that an airbag is present |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflatable nylon bags designed to supplement the protection of occupants during crashes; one of the most common new technology items confronting responders at crash scenes; also known as supplemental restraint systems. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Materials that react with
atmospheric moisture and rapidly decompose. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The body's autonomic, sympathetic nervous system response to stimuli designed to prepare the individual to fight or flee. |
|
|
Term
| Alcoholic ketoacidosis (AKA) |
|
Definition
| Condition found in patients who chronically abuse alcohol accompanied by vomit ing, a built-up of ketones in the blood, and little or no food intake. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Addiction and dependence on ethanol; often develops over many years. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A hormone responsible for the reabsorption of sodium and water from the kidney tubules. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A substance with a pH above 7.0; also known as a base or caustic. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A group of plant-based substances containing nitrogen and found in nature. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A substance that can provoke an allergic reaction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An abnormal immune response,
mediated by immunoglobulin E antibodies, to an allergen that should not cause such a response and to which the patient has already been exposed; usually involves excessive release of immune agents, espe cially histamines. |
|
|
Term
| All-hazards emergency preparedness |
|
Definition
| A cross-cutting approach in which all forms of emergencies, including manmade and natural disasters, epidemics, and physical or biologic terrorism, are managed from a common template that uses consistent language and structure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Transplanting organs or tissues from geneti
cally nonidentical members of the same species. |
|
|
Term
| All-terrain vehicle (ATV) |
|
Definition
| Any of a number of models of small open motorized vehicles designed for off road and wilderness use; three-wheeled (all-terrain cycles) and four-wheeled (quads) versions are most often used for personnel insertion; six- and eight wheeled models exist for specialized applications. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A positively charged particle emitted by certain radioactive materials. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Disruption of a person's
emotional and intellectual functioning. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A syndrome associated with the relatively low partial pressure of oxygen in the atmosphere at altitudes encountered during mountain climb ing or travel in unpressurized aircraft. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
In contrast to dead air space, alve
olar volume is the amount of air that does reach the alveoli for gas exchange (approximately 350 mL in the adult male). It is the difference between tidal volume and dead-space volume. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Functional units of the respiratory system; area in the lungs where the majority of gas exchange takes place; singular form is alveolus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Progressive dementia seen mostly in the elderly and marked by decline of memory and cognitive function. |
|
|
Term
| Amniotic sac (bag of waters) |
|
Definition
| The fluid-filled protective sac that surrounds the fetus inside the uterus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Height (voltage) of a waveform on the ECG. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A sealed sterile container that holds a single dose of liquid or powdered medication. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Almond-shaped structure at the end of each
hippocampus that attaches emotional significance to incoming stimuli; has a large role in the fear response; plural form is amygdale. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Enzyme in pancreatic juice. |
|
|
Term
| Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) |
|
Definition
| Autoimmune disorder affecting the motor roots of the spinal nerves, causing progressive muscle weakness and eventually paralysis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Area between the rectum and the anus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A state in which pain is controlled or not perceived. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An unusual or exaggerated allergic reaction to a foreign substance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Reaction that clinically mimics
an allergic reaction but is not mediated by immunoglobulin E antibodies, so not a true allergic reaction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Life-threatening allergic reaction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Massive generalized body edema. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The relation of internal body structures
to the surface of the body; imaginary straight line divisions of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The position of a person standing erect with his or her feet and palms facing the examiner |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Study of the body's structure and organization. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A single secure connection for an anchor. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The means of securing the ropes and other elements of the high-angle system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin; most common form is iron-deficiency anemia. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A process in which pain is prevented during a procedure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Localized dilation or bulging of a blood vessel wall or wall of a heart chamber. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A stage in the grieving process in which the individual is upset by the stated future loss of life. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Chest discomfort or other related
symptoms of sudden onset that may occur because the increased oxygen demand of the heart temporarily exceeds the blood supply. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Symptoms of myocardial ischemia
other than chest pain or discomfort. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Swelling of the tissues, including the dermal layer; often found in and around the mouth,
tongue, and lips. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An angulation of the sternum that indicates the point where the second rib joins the sternum; also called the manubriosternal junction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Lack of enjoyment in activities one used to find pleasurable. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A negatively charged ion. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Eating disorder characterized by a
preoccupation that one is obese; drastic, intentional weight loss; and bizarre attitudes and rituals associ ated with food and exercise. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A total lack of oxygen availability to the tissues. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A drug that does not cause a physiologic response when it binds with a receptor. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The inability to remember short-term memory information after an event during which the head was struck. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The period before childbirth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The front, or ventral, surface. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Collection of symptoms seen after the compression, death, or transection of the anterior portion of the spinal cord. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An acute bacterial infection caused by inhalation, contact, or ingestion of Bacillus anthracis organisms. Three forms of anthrax disease may occur
depending on the route of exposure. Inhalational anthrax disease occurs after the inhalation of anthrax spores. Cutaneous anthrax disease is the most common form and occurs after the exposure of compromised skin to anthrax spores. Gastrointestinal anthrax disease occurs after the ingestion of live B. anthracis in contaminated meat. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Medications used to correct irregular heartbeats and slow hearts that beat too fast. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Medication that kills or limits bacteria. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| In common medical terms, a drug that kills bacteria. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Agents produced by B lymphocytes that bind to antigens, thus killing or controlling them and slowing or stopping an infection; also called immunoglobulin. |
|
|
Term
| Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) |
|
Definition
A hormone released in
response to detected loss of body water; prevents
further loss of water through the urinary tract by promoting the reabsorption of water into the blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A substance that can reverse the adverse effects of a poison. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A marker on a cell that identifies the cell as "self' or "not self'; antigens are used by antibodies to identify cells that should be attacked as not self. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Medication that reduces the effects of histamine. |
|
|
Term
| Antiinflammatory mediators |
|
Definition
| Protein entities, often produced in the liver, that act as modulators of the immune response to the proinflammatory response to injury; also called cytokines. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A medication that reduces or
eliminates a fever. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Prevention of sepsis by preventing or inhibiting the growth of causative microorganisms; in the field, the process used to cleanse local skin areas before needle puncture with products that are alcohol or iodine based. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A substance that can reverse the adverse effects of a venom by binding to it and inactivating it. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Medication that kills or impedes a virus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A root word, prefix, or suffix that has the opposite meaning of another word. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Cells of the body that do not have a central nucleus, such as those in cardiac muscle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The end of the anal canal. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The sometimes vague feeling of apprehension, uneasiness, dread, or worry that often occurs without
a specific source or cause identified. It is also a normal response to a perceived threat. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Delivers blood from the left ventricle of the heart to the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Semilunar valve on the left of the heart; separates the left ventricle from the aorta. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Lower portion of the heart, tip of the ventricles (approximately the level of the fifth left
intercostal space); points leftward, downward, and forward. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A scoring system applied to an infant after delivery; key components include appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A technologic aid used to warn of cessation of breathing in a premature infant; also may warn of bradycardia and tachycardia. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Sweat glands that open into hair follicles, including in and around the genitalia, axillae, and anus; secrete an organic substance (which is odorless until acted upon by surface bacteria) into the hair follicles. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A tubular process that extends from the colon. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Area that includes the extremities
(e.g., arms, pelvis, and legs). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Consists of all the bones not within the axial skeleton: upper and lower extremities, the girdles, and their attachments. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Accessory structure of the cecum. |
|
|
Term
| Application of principles |
|
Definition
| The step at which the para medic applies critical thinking in a clinical sense and arrives at a field impression or a working diagnosis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Fluid that fills the anterior chamber of the eye; maintains intraocular pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Second layer of the meninges. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Weblike middle layer of the meninges |
|
|
Term
| Areolar connective tissue |
|
Definition
| A loose tissue found in most organs of the body; consists of weblike collagen, reticulum, and elastin fibers. |
|
|
Term
| Arnold-Chiari malformation |
|
Definition
| A complication of spina bifida in which the brainstem and cerebellum extend down through the foramen magnum into the cervical portion of the vertebrae. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Smooth muscle that surrounds each follicle; responsible for "goose bumps," which pull the hair upwards. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Term often used interchangeably with dysrhythmia; any disturbance or abnormality in a normal rhythmic pattern; any cardiac rhythm other than a sinus rhythm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Accidental puncture into an artery instead of a vein. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Small arterial vessels; supply oxygenated blood to the capillaries |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A chronic disease of the arterial system characterized by abnormal thickening and hardening of the vessel walls. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of a joint that results in pain, stiffness, swelling, and redness. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Distortion of an ECG tracing by electrical activity that is noncardiac in origin (e.g., electrical interference, poor electrical conduction, patient movement). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The use of specially designed hard ware to create anchors where good natural anchors do not exist. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Six paired cartilages stacked on
top of each other in the larynx. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Part of the large intestine. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Marked abdominal swelling from a buildup of fluid in the peritoneal cavity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Sterile; free from germs, infection, and any form of life. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Chemicals that impair the body's ability to either get or use oxygen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inhalation of foreign contents into the lungs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of the bronchi and alveoli caused by inhaled foreign objects, usually acids such as stomach acid. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A threat of imminent bodily harm to another person by someone with the obvious ability to carry out the threat. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A test of a substance to determine its components. |
|
|
Term
| Assessment-based management |
|
Definition
| Taking the information you obtain from your assessment and using it to treat the patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Allergic response of the airways causing wheezing and dyspnea. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Fixed-rate pacemaker that continuously discharges at a preset rate regardless of the patient's intrinsic activity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A total absence of ventricular electrical activity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inability to control voluntary muscle movements; unsteady movements and staggering gait. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An abnormal condition characterized by the collapse of alveoli, preventing the respiratory exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen in a part of the lungs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A form of arteriosclerosis in which the
thickening and hardening of the vessel walls are caused by a buildup of fatty deposits in the inner lining of large and middle-sized muscular arteries (from athero, meaning gruel or paste, and sclerosis, meaning hardness). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A genetic disposition to an allergic reaction that is different from developing an allergy after one or more exposures to a drug or substance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Absence of a normal opening. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Two receiving chambers of the heart; singular form is atrium. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Remaining 20% to 30% of blood forced into the right ventricle during atrial contraction. |
|
|
Term
| Atrioventricular junction |
|
Definition
| The atrioventricular node and the nonbranching portion of the bundle of His. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A group of cells that conduct an electrical impulse through the heart; located in the floor of the right atrium immediately behind the tricuspid valve and near the opening of the coronary sinus. |
|
|
Term
| Atrioventricular sequential pacemaker |
|
Definition
| Type of dual-chamber pacemaker that stimulates first the atrium, then the ventricle, mimicking normal cardiac physiology. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Valve located between each atrium and ventricle; the tricuspid separates the right atrium from the right ventricle, and the mitral (bicuspid) separates the left atrium from the left ventricle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Decrease in cell size that negatively affects function. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A vaccine prepared from a live virus or bacteria that has been physically or chemically weak ened to produce an immune response without causing the severe effects of the disease. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Qualities or characteristics of a person. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Three small bones (malleus, incus,
and stapes) that articulate with each other to transmit sounds waves to the cochlea. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Leads aVR, aVL, and aVF; these leads record the difference in electrical potential at one location relative to zero potential rather than rela tive to the electrical potential of another extremity, as in the bipolar leads. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Sensory disturbances caused by a partial seizure; may precede a generalized seizure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Outer ear; also called the pinna. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The process of listening to body sounds with a stethoscope. |
|
|
Term
| Authority having jurisdiction |
|
Definition
| The local agency having legal authority for the type of rescue and the location at which it occurs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Antibodies produced by B cells that mistakenly attack and destroy "self' cells belonging to the patient; autoantibodies are the pathophysiologic agent of most autoimmune disorders. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Transplanting organs or tissues within the same person. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The temperature at which a material ignites and bums without an ignition source. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The transplantation of skin of one patient from its original location to that of a wound on the same patient, such as a bum. Autologous means "derived from the same individual." |
|
|
Term
| Automatic location identification |
|
Definition
| Telephone technology used to identify the location of a caller immediately. |
|
|
Term
| Automatic number identification |
|
Definition
| Telephone technology that provides immediate identification of the caller's 10-digit telephone number. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Ability of cardiac pacemaker cells to initiate an electrical impulse spontaneously without being stimulated from another source (such as a nerve). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Massive sympathetic stimulation unbalanced by the parasympathetic nervous system because of spinal cord injury, usually at or above T6. |
|
|
Term
| Autonomic dysreflexia syndrome |
|
Definition
| A condition characterized by hypertension superior to an SCI site caused by overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Provides unconscious control of smooth muscle organ and glands. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Mnemonic for awake, verbal, pain, unresponsive; used to evaluate a patient's mental status. |
|
|
Term
| Axial compression (loading) |
|
Definition
| The application of a force of energy along the axis of the spine, often resulting in compression fractures of the vertebrae. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Application of excessive pressure or weight along the vertical axis of the spine. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Area that includes the head, neck, thorax,and abdomen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Part of the skeleton composed of the skull,hyoid bone, vertebral column, and thoracic cage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Imaginary line joining the positive and negative electrodes of a lead. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Branching extensions of the neuron where impulses exit the cell. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The increase in nitrogen-containing waste products in the blood secondary to renal failure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Cells present in the lymphatic system that mediate humoral immunity (also known as B cells). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The structural roof support member on a vehicle located at the rear edge of the front door; also
referred to as the B post. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An abnormal finding indicated by the
presence of great toe extension with the fanning of all other toes on stimulation of the sole of the foot when it is stroked with a semi-sharp object from the heel to the ball of the foot. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium that causes anthrax disease in human beings and animals. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The presence of bacteria in the blood. This condition could progress to septic shock. Fever, chills, tachycardia, and tachypnea are common manifesta tions of bacteremia. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Prokaryotic microorganisms capable of infect ing and injuring patients; however, some bacteria, as part of the normal flora, assist in the processes of the human body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A potentially serious bacterial infection of the lower portions of the upper airway: larynx, trachea, and bronchi. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A range of radio frequencies. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A stage of the grieving process. The individual may attempt to "cut a deal" with a higher power to accomplish a specific goal or task. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Ambulance designed to transport
morbidly obese patients. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An injury resulting from rapid or extreme changes in pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A thin film of material placed on the patient's face used to prevent direct contact with the patient's mouth during positive-pressure ventilation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Top of the heart; located at approxi
mately the level of the second intercostal space. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Straight line recorded on ECG graph paper
when no electrical activity is detected. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Materials with a pH value greater than 7.0 (e.g., sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Loss of integrity to the bony
structures of the base of the skull. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Type of granulocyte (white blood cell or leukocyte) that releases histamine. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Touching or contact with another person
without that person's consent. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Significant bruising around the mastoid
process (behind the ears). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Classic signs of cardiac tamponade that include jugular venous distention, hypotension, and muffled heart sounds. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The conduct and activity of a person that is observable by others. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Actions or ideations by the patient that are harmful or potentially harmful to the patient or others. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A safety technique used to safeguard personnel exposed to the risk of falling; the belayer is the person responsible for operation of the belay. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An inflammation of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) that often is preceded by a viral upper respiratory tract infection. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Comparison of operating policies, procedures, protocols, and performance with those of other agencies in an effort to improve results. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Any of a group of minor tranquilizers
with a common molecular structure and similar phar macologic activity, including antianxiety, sedative, hypnotic, amnestic, anticonvulsant, and muscle-relaxing effects. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Disease caused by a deficiency of thiamine and characterized by neurologic symptoms, cardiovascular abnormalities, and edema. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A negatively charged particle emitted by certain radioactive materials. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The slanted tip at the end of the needle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Left atrioventricular valve in the heart; also called the mitral valve. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Manufactured in the liver; composed of electrolytes and iron recovered from red blood cells when they die. |
|
|
Term
| Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) |
|
Definition
The delivery of two (bi) levels of positive-pressure ventilation; one during inspiration (to keep the airway open as the patient inhales) and the other (lower) pressure during expiration to reduce the work of
exhalation. |
|
|
Term
| Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) device |
|
Definition
| Breathing device that can be set at one pressure for inhaling and a different pressure for exhaling. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A test that determines the effects of a substance on an organism and compares the result with some agreed standard. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The speed with which and how much of
a drug reaches its intended site of action. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Accumulation of bacteria in a wound; does not necessarily imply an infection is present. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A disease-causing pathogen or a toxin that may be used as a weapon to cause disease or injury to people. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Irregular respirations varying in rate and depth and interrupted by periods of apnea; associated with increased intracranial pressure, brain damage at the level of the medulla, and respiratory compromise from drug poisoning. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Waveform that is partly positive and partly negative. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An illness of extremes of mood, alter
nating between periods of depression and episodes of mania (type I) or hypomania (type II). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| ECG lead consisting of a positive and negative electrode; a pacing lead with two electrical poles that are external from the pulse generator; the nega tive pole is located at the extreme distal tip of the pacing lead, and the positive pole is located several millimeters proximal to the negative electrode. The stimulating pulse is delivered through the negative electrode. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Part of the female reproductive tract through which the fetus is delivered; includes the lower part of the uterus, the cervix, and the vagina. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Injuries to the body from an explosion, characterized by anatomic and physiologic changes from the force generated by the blast wave hitting the body's surface and affecting primarily gas-containing structures (lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and ears). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Escape of blood from a blood vessel. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A chemical used as a weapon designed specifically to injure the body tissue internally and externally of those exposed to its vapors or liquid; the
method of injury is to cause painful skin blisters or tissue destruction of the exposed surface area (e.g., mustard, lewisite). |
|
|
Term
| Blocked premature atrial complex |
|
Definition
| Premature atrial contraction not followed by a QRS complex. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A position that places the emergency vehicle at an angle to the approaching traffic, across several lanes of traffic if necessary; this position begins to shield the work area and protects the crash scene from some of the approaching traffic. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Liquid connective tissue; allows transport of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Chemicals absorbed into the body through the action of breathing, skin absorption, or ingestion (e.g., hydrogen cyanide, cyanogen chloride). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Milligrams of ethanol per deciliter of blood divided by 100; a fairly standard measure of how intoxicated a person is. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A layer of tightly adhered cells that protects the brain and spinal cord from exposure to medications, toxins, and infectious particles. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Force exerted by the blood against the walls of the arteries as the ventricles of the heart
contract and relax. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Passage of the protective blood and mucus plug from the cervix; often is an early sign of labor. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A calculation strongly associated with subcutaneous and total body fat and with skinfold thickness measurements. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Area of the body covered
by skin; measured in square meters. |
|
|
Term
| Boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion |
|
Definition
| An explosion that can occur when a vessel containing a pressurized liquid ruptures. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The temperature at which the vapor pressure of the material being heated equals atmospheric pressure (760 mm Hg); water boils to steam at 100° C (212° F). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Hard connective tissue; consists of living cells and a matrix made of minerals. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Hyperactivity of bowel sounds. |
|
|
Term
| Borderline personality disorder |
|
Definition
| Cluster B disorder marked by unstable emotions, relationships, and attitudes. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A severe neurologic illness caused by a potent toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum organisms; the three forms are food borne, wound, and infant (also called intestinal) botulism. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The noises made by the intestinal smooth muscles as they squeeze fluids and food products through the digestive tract. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Located in the renal corpuscle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Gas law that demonstrates that as pressure increases, volume decreases; explains the pain that can occur in flight in the teeth and ears and baro trauma in the gastrointestinal tract. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Heart rate slower than 60 beats/min(from brady, meaning "slow"). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Abnormal slowness of muscular movement. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A respiratory rate that is persistently slower than normal for age; in adults, a rate slower than
12 breaths/min. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A traumatic insult to the brain capable of producing physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and vocational changes. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Part of the brain that connects it to the spinal cord; responsible for many of the autonomic functions the body requires to survive (also called vegetative functions). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A descending device consisting of a U-shaped metal bar to which several metal bars are attached that create friction on the rope. Some racks are limited to use in personal rappelling, whereas others also may be used for lowering rescue loads. |
|
|
Term
| Braxton-Hicks contractions (false labor) |
|
Definition
| Benign and painless contractions that usually occur after the third month of pregnancy. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Violation by the defendant of the standard of care applicable to the circumstances. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Presentation of the buttocks or feet
of the fetus as the first part of the infant's body to enter the birth canal. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Smallest of the air passages. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An acute, infectious, inflammatory
disease of the upper and lower respiratory tracts that results in obstruction of the small airways. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of the lower airways, usually with mucus production. Often chronic and related to tobacco abuse. |
|
|
Term
| Bronchopulmonary dysplasia BPD) |
|
Definition
| Respiratory condition in infants usually arising from preterm birth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Group of symptoms that develop after the herniation or transection of half of the spinal cord manifested with unilateral damage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The blowing or swishing sound created by the turbulence within a blood vessel. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Relating to an inflamed, enlarged lymph gland. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An administration route in which medication is placed in the mouth between the gum and the mucous membrane of the cheek and absorbed into the bloodstream. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Compensatory mechanisms that act
together to control pH. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Pair of small glands that manu facture a mucous-type secretion that unites with the prostate fluid and spermatozoa to form sperm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Eating disorder consisting of a pattern of eating large amounts of food in one sitting (hing ing) and then forcing oneself to regurgitate (purging), with associated guilt and depression. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Large containers and tanks used to transport large quantities of hazardous materials. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A localized, fluid-filled lesion usually greater than
0.5 cm. |
|
|
Term
| Bundle branch block (BBB) |
|
Definition
| Abnormal conduction of an electrical impulse through either the right or left bundle branches. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Fibers located in the upper portion of the interventricular septum that conduct an electrical impulse through the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Exhaustion to the point of not being able to perform one's job effectively. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Chronic or acute inflammation of the small synovial sacs known as bursa. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Three or more sequential ectopic beats; also referred to as a salvo or run. |
|
|
Term
| Cadaveric transplantation |
|
Definition
| Transplantation of organs from an already deceased person to a living person. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Regulation of an ECG machine's stylus
sensitivity so that a 1-mV electrical signal will produce a deflection measuring exactly 10 mm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The elapsed time from the moment a call is received by the communications
center to the time the responding unit is alerted. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A group of diseases that allow unrestrained growth of cells in one or more of the body organs or tissues. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Venules that have the capability of holding large amounts of volume. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Tiny vessels that connect arterioles to venules; deliver blood to each cell in the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Loss of intravascular fluid (plasma, water) from a loss of capillary integrity or an opening of gap May be caused by thermal injury to capillaries or the intense inflammatory reaction to burn injury, infection, or physical trauma. junctions between the cells of the capillaries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A tablet with an oblong shape and a film-coated covering. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A device that provides a numerical reading of exhaled C02 concentrations and a waveform (tracing). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Continuous analysis and recording of C02 concentrations in respiratory gases. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A device used to measure the concentration of C02 at the end of exhalation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A numeric reading of exhaled C02 concentrations without a continuous written record or waveform. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Layer of protein enveloping the genome of a virion; composed of structural units called the capsomeres. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A membranous shell surrounding certain
microorganisms, such as the pneumococcus bacterium. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Ability of a pacing stimulus to depolarize successfully the cardiac chamber being paced; with one-to-one capture, each pacing stimulus results in depolarization of the appropriate chamber. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A pesticide that inhibits acetylcholinesterase. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Condition mostly seen in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in whom carbon dioxide is excessively retained, causing mental status changes and decreased respirations. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Glass or plastic bottles commonly used to transport corrosive products. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A series of abscesses in the subcutaneous tissues that drain through hair follicles. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Absence of cardiac mechanical activity confirmed by the absence of a detectable pulse, unresponsiveness, and apnea or agonal, gasping respirations. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Period from the beginning of one heart beat to the beginning of the next; normally consisting of PQRST waves, complexes, and intervals. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Amount of blood pumped into the aorta each minute by the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An acute traumatic perforation of the
ventricles or atria. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Circular muscle that controls the movement of material into the stomach. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A condition in which heart muscle function is severely impaired, leading to decreased cardiac output and inadequate tissue perfusion. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A disease of the heart muscle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A collection of diseases and conditions that involve the heart (cardio) and blood vessels (vascular). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Area in the bronchial tree that separates into the right and left mainstem bronchi. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The noise made when blood in the carotid arteries passes over plaque buildups. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A medical condition in which the median nerve is compressed at the wrist(within the carpal tunnel), resulting in pain and numbness of the hand. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Spasm of the muscles of the hand when a blood pressure cuff is inflated. Can occur in the feet if the cuff is placed on the leg. A result of hyperventilation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Connective tissue composed of chondrocytes; exact makeup depends on the location and function in the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Unites two bones with hyaline cartilage or fibrocartilage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Interpretations of constitutional, statutory, or administrative law made by the courts; also known as common law or judge-made law. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Refers to the metabolic breakdown of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates by the body to produce energy. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Process of breaking down complex substances into more simple ones. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Abnormal state characterized by a trancelike level of consciousness and postural rigidity; occurs in
hypnosis and in certain organic and psychological disorders such as schizophrenia, epilepsy, and hysteria. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A partial or complete opacity on or in the lens or lens capsule of the eye, especially one impairing vision or causing blindness. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A state of psychologically induced immobility with muscular rigidity, at times interrupted by agitation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A form of schizophrenia characterized by alternating periods of extreme withdrawal and extreme excitement. During the withdrawal stage stupor, waxy flexibility, muscular rigidity, mutism, blocking, negativism, and catalepsy may be seen; during the period of excitement, purposeless and impulsive activity may range from mild agitation to violence. See Catatonia. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Substances that decrease the time a poison spends in the gastrointestinal tract by increasing bowel motility. |
|
|
Term
| Catheter shear/catheter fragment embolism |
|
Definition
| Breaking off the tip of the intravenous catheter inside the vein, which then travels through the venous system; it can lodge in pulmonary circulation as a pulmonary embolism. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A positively charged ion. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Peripheral nerve bundles descending through the spinal column distal to the conus medullaris. Cauda equina are not spinal nerves. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A group of symptoms associated with the compression of the peripheral nerves still within the spinal canal below the level of the first lumbar vertebra, characterized by lumbar
back pain, motor and sensory deficits, and bowel or bladder incontinence. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A position toward the distal end of the body; usually inferior. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| In a negligence case, the negligence of the defendant must have caused or created the harm sustained by the plaintiff; also referred to as proximate cause. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A substance with a pH above 7.0; also known as a base or alkali. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| First segment of the large intestine; the appendix is its accessory structure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Portion of the neuron containing the organelles, where essential cellular functions are performed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Form of acquired immunity; results from activation of T lymphocytes that were previously sensitized to a specific antigen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Swelling of cellular tissues, usually from injury. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An inflammation of the skin. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A layer of tough tissue that anchors the root of a tooth to the periodontal membrane/ligament. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Collection of symptoms seen after the death of the central portion of the spinal cord. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The brain and spinal cord. |
|
|
Term
| Central neurogenic hyperventilation |
|
Definition
Similar to Kussmaul respirations; characterized as deep, rapid
breathing; associated with increased intracranial pressure. |
|
|
Term
| Central retinal artery occlusion |
|
Definition
| A condition in which the blood supply to the retina is blocked because of a clot or embolus in the central retinal artery or one of its branches. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A major vein of the chest, neck, or abdomen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A catheter through a vein to end in the superior vena cava or right atrium of the heart for medication or fluid administration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Paired, rodlike structures that exist in a specialized area of the cytoplasm known as the centro
some. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Specialized area of the cytoplasm; plays an important role in the process of cell division. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A position toward the head; usually superior. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Area of the brain involved in fine and gross coordination; responsible for interpretation of actual movement and correction of any movements that interfere with coordination and the body's position. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A brain injury in which brain tissue is bruised in a local area but does not puncture the pia mater. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Neuromuscular condition in which the patient has difficulty controlling the voluntary muscles because of damage to a portion of the brain. |
|
|
Term
| Cerebral perfusion pressure |
|
Definition
Pressure inside the cerebral arteries and an indicator of brain perfusion;
calculated by subtracting intracranial pressure from mean arterial pressure (CPP =MAP- ICP). |
|
|
Term
| Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) |
|
Definition
Fluid that bathes, protects,
and nourishes the central nervous system. |
|
|
Term
| Cerebrovascular accident (CVA) |
|
Definition
Blockage or hemorrhage of the blood vessels in the brain, usually causing
focal neurologic deficits; also known as a stroke. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Largest part of the brain, divided into right and left hemispheres. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An external verification of the competencies that an individual has achieved and typically involves an examination process; in healthcare these processes are typically designed to verify that an individual has achieved minimal competency to ensure safe and effective patient care. |
|
|
Term
| Certified Flight Paramedic (FP-C) |
|
Definition
| A certification obtained by paramedics on successful completion of the Flight Paramedic Examination. |
|
|
Term
| Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) |
|
Definition
A nurse who has completed education, training, and certification beyond a registered nurse with a focus on air
medical transport of potentially critically ill or injured patients. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Glands lining the external auditory canal; produce cerumen or earwax. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Degeneration of two or more cervical vertebrae, usually resulting in a narrowing of the space between the vertebrae. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| First seven vertebrae in descending order from the base of the skull. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inferior portion of the uterus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A small bump on the eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Law stating that oxygen cylinders can
have variations in pressure readings in different ambient temperatures. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A substance that can bind metals; used as an antidote to many heavy metal poisonings. |
|
|
Term
| Chemical Abstracts Services (CAS) number |
|
Definition
| Unique identification number of chemicals, much like a person's Social Security number. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Chemicals that prevent the transportation of oxygen to the cells or the use of oxygen at the cellular level. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A precise description of a drug's chemical composition and molecular structure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Agents such as sedatives that can suppress a patient's neurologic and/or motor capabilities and reduce the threat to the paramedic; also known as pharmacologic restraints. |
|
|
Term
| Cheyne-Stokes respirations |
|
Definition
| A pattern of gradually increasing rate and depth of breathing that tapers to slower and shallower breathing with a period of apnea before the cycle repeats itself; often described as a crescendo-decrescendo pattern or periodic breathing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The reason the patient has sought medical attention. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An all-encompassing term for all
types of child abuse and neglect, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Tear gas; commercially known as
Mace. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Narrowing or blockage of one or both nares by membranous or bony tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An industrial chemical used as a weapon to kill those who inhale the vapors or gases; the method of injury is asphyxiation resulting from lung damage from hydrochloric acid bums (e.g., chlorine, phosgene); also known as a pulmonary agent. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of the bile duct. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of the gallbladder. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The presence of gallstones in the common bile duct. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The presence of stones in the gallbladder. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Having the characteristics of the parasym pathetic division of the autonomic nervous system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A chemical that blocks the action of acetylcholinesterase; thus the neurotransmitter acetylcholine is allowed to send its signals continuously to innervate nerve endings. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Fibrous bands of tissue in the valves that attach to each part or cusp of the valve. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Infection of the amniotic sac and its
contents. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Vascular layer of the eyeball |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Group of specialized cells in the ventricles of the brain; filters blood through cerebral capillaries to create the cerebrospinal fluid. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Material within a cell nucleus from which the chromosomes are formed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Any of the threadlike structures in the nucleus of a cell that function in the transmission of genetic information; each consists of a double strand of DNA attached to proteins called histones. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Long,drawn out; applied to a disease that is not acute. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An exposure to low concentrations
over a long period. |
|
|
Term
| Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) |
|
Definition
| A progressive and irreversible condition characterized by diminished inspiratory and expiratory capacity of the lungs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The gradual, long-term deterioration of kidney function. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The arrangement of events in time. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The time required to get a unit en route to a call from dispatch. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Semifluid mass of partly digested food expelled by the stomach into the duodenum. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Consists of muscles that change the shape of the lens in the eye; includes a network of capillaries that produce aqueous humor. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A daily rhythmic activity cycle based on 24-hour intervals or events that occur at approximately 24-hour intervals, such as certain physiologic
occurrences. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The 24-hour cycle that relates to work and rest time. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Division of the left coronary artery. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A feeling of tingling around the lips and mouth caused by hyperventilation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Adding detours and extra details to conversations but eventually returning to the main topic. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A chronic degenerative disease of the liver. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A branch of law that deals with torts (civil wrongs) committed by one individual, organization, or group against another. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Asking the speaker to help you understand. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Heat stroke caused by environmental exposure that results in core hyperthermia greater than 40° C. (104oF). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| To wash with soap and water. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Incomplete closure of the upper lip. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Incomplete closure of the hard and/or soft palate of the mouth. |
|
|
Term
| Clinical performance indicator |
|
Definition
| A definable, measurable, skilled task completed by the dispatcher that has a significant impact on the delivery of patient care. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Small, erectile structure at the entrance to the vagina. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A form of interview question that limits a patient's response to simple, brief words or phrases (e.g., "yes or no," "sharp or dull"). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Fracture of the bone tissue that has not broken the skin tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A bacterium that produces a powerful toxin that causes botulism disease in human beings, waterfowl, and cattle. |
|
|
Term
| Cluster A personality disorders |
|
Definition
| Odd and eccentric type of personality disorders, including paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal; characterized by social isolation and odd thought processes. |
|
|
Term
| Cluster B personality disorders |
|
Definition
Emotional and dramatic type of personality disorders, including histrionic, borderline, antisocial, and narcissistic;
characterized by impulsive, unpredictable behavior, and manipulation of others. |
|
|
Term
| Cluster C personality disorders |
|
Definition
| Anxious and fearful type of personality disorders, including avoidant, dependent, and compulsive; marked by anxiety, shyness, and avoidance of conflict. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A migraine-like condition characterized by attacks of intense unilateral pain. The pain occurs most often over the eye and forehead and is accompanied by flushing and watering of the eyes and nose. The attacks occur in groups, with a duration of several hours. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An acronym for central nervous system padding: pia matter, arachnid matter, dura matter. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Formation of blood clots with the associated increase in blood viscosity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A set of interactions of the circulating clotting factors. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Dead or dying tissue that forms a
scar or eschar. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Fine, white powdered form of cocaine, a powerful central nervous system stimulant; typically snorted intranasally. |
|
|
Term
| Coccyx (coccygeal vertebrae) |
|
Definition
| Terminal end of the spinal column; a tail-like bone composed of three to five vertebra. No nerve roots travel through the coccyx. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Bony structure in the inner ear resembling a tiny snail shell. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A guide for interactions between members of a specific profession (such as physicians) and the public. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A psychological concept defined as exhibiting too much and often inappropriate caring behavior. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Operation of the mind by which one becomes aware of objects of thought or perception; includes all aspects of perceiving, thinking, and remembering. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An impairment that affects an individual's awareness and memory as well as his or her ability to learn, process information, communicate, and make decisions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| In the phases of immune response, the stage at which a foreign antigen is recognized to be present. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The occurrence of increased urine production on exposure to cold. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The mechanism associated with cold water in which individuals can survive extended periods of submersion. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A safe area isolated from the area of contam ination; also called the support zone. This zone has safe and easy access. It contains the command post and staging areas for personnel, vehicles, and equipment. EMS personnel are stationed in the cold zone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A fibrous protein that provides elasticity and strength to skin and the body's connective tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Incision in the colon for the purpose of making a temporary or permanent opening between the bowel and the abdominal wall. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Using a mix of geographic coverage and demand posts to best serve the community given the number of ambulances available at any one time. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A word root followed by a vowel. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A vowel that is added to a word root before a suffix. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Medical care intended to provide relief from pain and discomfort, such as the control of pain with medications. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The location from which incident operations are directed. |
|
|
Term
| Comminuted skull fracture |
|
Definition
| Breakage of a bone or bones of the skull into multiple fragments. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The period after infection during which the diease may be transmitted to another host. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The exchange of thoughts, messages,
and information. |
|
|
Term
| Compartment syndrome (CS) |
|
Definition
| A condition in which compartment pressures increase in an injured extremity to the point that capillary circulation is stopped; often only correctable through surgical opening of the compartment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Pause for which the normal beat after a premature complex occurs when expected; also called a complete pause. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Passage of all fetal tissue before
20 weeks of gestation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A seizure affecting only one
part of the brain that does alter consciousness. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The resistance of the patient's lung tissue
to ventilation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Presentation of an extremity beside the major presenting fetal part. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Word that contains more than one root. |
|
|
Term
| Computer-aided dispatch (CAD) |
|
Definition
| A computer-aided system that automates dispatching by enhanced data collection, rapid recall of information, dispatch mapping, as well as unit tracking and the ability to track and dispatch resources. |
|
|
Term
| Concealment To hide or put out of site; provides no ballistic protection. |
|
Definition
| To hide or put out of site; provides no ballistic protection. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The initial formation of an overall
concept of care for a particular patient begins when the paramedic arrives on location of the incident. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The act or process of fertilization;
beginning of pregnancy. |
|
|
Term
| Concurrent medical direction |
|
Definition
| Consultation with a physician or other advanced health care professional by telephone, radio, or other electronic means, permitting the physician and paramedic to decide together on the best course of action in the delivery of patient care. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A brain injury with a transient impairment of consciousness followed by a rapid recovery to baseline neurologic activity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Large arteries of the body (e.g., aorta and the pulmonary trunk); have more elas tic tissue and less smooth muscle; stretch under great
pressures and then quickly return back to their origi
nal shapes. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A system of pathways in the heart composed of specialized electrical (pacemaker) cells. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Type of deafness that occurs where there is a problem with the transfer of sound
from the outer to the inner ear. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Ability of a cardiac cell to receive an elec trical stimulus and conduct that impulse to an adjacent cardiac cell. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Protection of patient information in any form and the disclosure of that information only as
needed for patient care or as otherwise permitted by law. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
By Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) definition, a space large
enough and configured so that an employee can enter and perform assigned work but has limited or restricted means for entry or exit (e.g., tanks, vessels, silos, storage bins, hoppers, vaults, and pits are spaces that may have limited means of entry); not designed for continuous employee occupancy. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Focusing on a particular point made
during the interview. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Present at or before birth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Thin, transparent mucous membrane that covers the inner surface of the eyelids and the outer surface of the sclera. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of the conjunctiva. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Most abundant type of tissue in the body; composed of cells that are separated by a matrix. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A medication or combination of medications that allows a patient to undergo what could be an unpleasant experience by producing an altered level of consciousness but not complete anesthesia. The goal is for the patient to breathe spon taneously and maintain his or her own airway. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Formula used to calculate the volume of fluid needed to properly resuscitate a burn patient. The formula is 2 to 4 mL!kg/% total body surface area burned. This is the formula currently regarded by the American Burn Association as the standard of care in adult burn patients. Several other, similar formulas exist that also may be used. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Emotion shown in degrees less than expected. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The deposition or absorption of chemical, biologic, or radiologic materials onto personnel or other materials. |
|
|
Term
| Contamination reduction zone |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Continuing education (CE) |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) |
|
Definition
| The delivery of slight positive pressure throughout the respiratory cycle to prevent airway collapse, reduce the work of breathing, and improve alveolar ventilation. |
|
|
Term
| Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device |
|
Definition
| Breathing device that allows delivery of slight positive pressure to prevent airway collapse and improve oxygenation and ventilation in spontaneously breathing patients. |
|
|
Term
| Continuous quality improvement (CQI) |
|
Definition
| Programs designed to improve the level of care; commonly driven by quality assurance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Ability to shorten in length actively. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Rhythmic tightening of the muscular
uterine wall that occurs during normal labor and leads to expulsion of the fetus and placenta from the uterus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The time from the beginning of one
contraction to the beginning of the next contraction |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The time from the beginning to the
end of a single uterine contraction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Use of a drug for a condition when it is not advisable. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An injury at another site, usually opposite the point of impact. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An injured plaintiff's failure
to exercise due care that, along with the defendant's negligence, contributed to the injury. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Terminal end of the spinal cord. |
|
|
Term
| Conus medullaris syndrome |
|
Definition
| Complications resulting from injury to the conus medullaris. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A vertical structure used to store ensiled plant material in a aerobic environment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Right-sided heart failure caused by pulmonary disease. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The measured body temperature within the core of the body; generally measured with an esophageal probe; normal is 98.6° F. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Avascular, transparent structure that permits light through to the interior of the eye. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Disease of the arteries that supply the heart muscle with blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Disease of the coronary arteries and their resulting complications, such as angina pectoris or acute myocardial infarction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Venous drain for the coronary circulation into the right atrium. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A substance able to corrode tissue or metal (e.g., acids and bases). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| See Adrenocortical steroids. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Of or referring to the improvement of physical appearance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The angle formed by the margins of the ribs at the sternum. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of the cartilage in the anterior chest that causes chest pain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A protective mechanism usually induced by mucosal irritation; the forceful, spastic expiration
experienced during coughing aids in the clearance of the bronchi and bronchioles. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An injury most often associated with a blow to the skull in which the force of the impact is transmitted through the skull bones to the opposite side of the head, where the bruise, fracture, or other sign of injury appears. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An injury directly below the point of impact. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Two consecutive premature complexes. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A type of concealment that hides the body and offers ballistic protection. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Solid, brownish-white crystal form of cocaine, a powerful central nervous system stimulant; typically smoked. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| As the name implies, when fluid accumulates in the smaller airway passages, air passing through the fluid creates a moist crackling or popping sound heard on inspiration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Twelve pairs of nerves that exit the brain and innervate the head and face; some also are part of the visceral portion of the peripheral nervous system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The vaultlike portion of the skull, behind and above the face. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| End product of creatine metabolism; released during anaerobic metabolism. Elevated levels of creatinine are common in advanced stages of renal failure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An enzyme in skeletal and cardiac
muscles that is released into circulation as a result of tissue damage. Can be used as a laboratory indicator of muscle damage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A local process by which an individual is permitted by a specific entity (e.g., medical director) to practice in a specific setting (e.g., EMS agency). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A crackling sound indicative of bone ends grinding together. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The grating, crackling, or popping sounds and sensations experienced under skin and joints. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Most inferior cartilage of the larynx;
only complete ring in the larynx. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A fibrous membrane located between the cricoid and thyroid cartilages. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An emergency procedure performed to
allow rapid entrance to the airway (by the cricothyroid membrane) for temporary oxygenation and ventilation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A location where any part of a criminal act has occurred or where evidence relating to a crime may be found. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A branch of law in which the federal,
state, or local government prosecutes individuals on behalf of society for violating laws designed to safeguard society. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Decreasing responsiveness to the effects of a drug in a drug classification (such as narcotics) and the likelihood of development of decreased responsiveness to another drug in that classification. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The process by which blood compatibility is determined by mixing blood samples from the donor and recipient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A viral infection of the upper airway that is notorious for causing a "seal bark" cough. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The visible part of a tooth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The appearance of the first part of the infant at the vaginal opening during delivery. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Formed when two objects are moving toward each other or when one object is moving toward a stationary object and the gap between the two is decreasing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Renal failure and shock after crush injuries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A collection of cellular debris or dried blood; often called a scab. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Pertaining to extremely low temperatures. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A mnemonic for circulation, sensation, and movement. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Yellow-blue ecchymosis surrounding the umbilicus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Values and perspectives common to a
racial, religious, or social group of people. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The tendency to impose your beliefs, values, and patterns of behavior on an individual from another culture. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Increased intensity of drug action evident after administration of several doses. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Flow of electrical charge from one point to another. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Focus on the environmental and personal habits of the patient that may influence the patient's general state of health. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Disorder caused by the overproduction of corticosteroids; characterized by a "moon face," obesity, fat accumulation on the upper back, increased facial hair, acne, diabetes, and hypertension. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Characteristic pattern of vital signs
during rising intracranial pressure, presenting as rising hypertension, bradycardia, and abnormal respirations. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A practice or set of practices followed by a group of people. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A highly toxic blood agent. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A bluish coloration of the skin as a result of hypoxemia, or deoxygenation of hemoglobin. |
|
|
Term
| Cyclohexyl methyl phosphonofluoridate |
|
Definition
| G nerve agent. The G agents tend to be nonpersistent, volatile agents. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A less-severe form of bipolar disorder
marked by more frequently alternating periods of a dysphoric mood that does not meet the criteria for depression and hypomania. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Process of phagocytes adhering to capillary and venule walls in the early phases of inflammation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Dried mixture of shredded leaves, stems, and seeds of the hemp plant that usually are smoked and contain many psychoactive compounds, most notably tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Self-injected nerve agent antidote kit consisting of atropine and 2-pralidoxime (2-PAM). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Connective tissue cell that contains histamine; important in initiating the inflammatory response. |
|
|
Term
| Material safety data sheet (MSDS) |
|
Definition
A document that contains information about the specific identity of a
hazardous chemical; information includes exact name and synonyms, health effects, first aid, chemical and physical properties, and emergency telephone numbers. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Nonliving material that separates cells in the connective tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Physical manipulation and breakdown of food. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The manner in which a drug works to produce its intended effect. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The way an injury occurs on the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A dark green substance that represents the infant's first bowel movement. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A position toward the midline of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The dose that kills 50% of the drug
tested population. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Infection of the mediastinum; a serious medical condition. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Surgical procedure of looking into the
mediastinum with an endoscope. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Area that includes the trachea, esophagus, thymus gland, heart, and great vessels. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Medically clean, not sterile; the goal in prehospital care because complete asepsis is not always possible. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Physician oversight of paramedic practice; also called medical control. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A physician responsible for the oversight of the EMS system and the actions of the
paramedics; also known as a physician advisor. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A field of study that evaluates the decisions, conduct, policies, and social concerns of medical activities. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Legislation that governs the practice of medicine; may prescribe how and to what extent a physician may delegate authority to a paramedic to perform medical acts; varies from state to state. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Greek- and Latin-based words
(typically) that function as a common language for the medical community. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Most inferior part of the brainstem; responsible for some vegetative functions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Lowest portion of brain tissue and the interface between the brain and the spinal cord;
responsible for maintenance of basic life functions such as heart rate and respirations. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Encapsulated nerve endings in the superficial dermis responsible for sensing vibrations and light touch. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
An episode of dysphoric mood with disruptions of homeostasis, including alterations in appetite, activities, and sleep patterns; also called major or
severe depression |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Foul-smelling, dark, and tarry stools stained with blood pigments or with digested blood, often indicating gastrointestinal bleeding. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The temperature at which a solid changes to a liquid (e.g., ice melting to water at oo C (32° F). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Difference in electrical charge across the cell membrane. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A girl's first menstruation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Covering of the brain and spinal cord; layers include the dura mater, arachnoid, and pia mater. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Irritation of the connective tissue covering the central nervous system, often from infection or hemorrhage |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A type of spina bifida in which the spinal cord develops normally but a saclike cyst that contains the meninges and cerebrospinal fluid protrudes from an opening in the spine, usually in the lumbosacral area. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The severest form of spina bifida in which the meninges, cerebrospinal fluid, and a portion of the spinal cord protrude from an opening in the spine and are encased in a sac covered by a thin membrane; also called myelomeningocele. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Cessation of menstruation in the human female |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Shedding of endometrial lining. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Any form of psychiatric disorder. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Developmental disability characterized by a lower than normal IQ. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Sweat glands that open directly to the surface of the body; produce a fluid (mainly water) when the temperature rises that allows the body to dispel large amounts of heat through the evaporation process. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Layers of connective tissue found in the peritoneal cavity. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Sum of all physical and chemical changes that occur within an organism. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| The smaller molecules from the breakdown that occurs during metabolism. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
The transformation of one type of mature differentiated cell into another type of mature
differentiated cell |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Spread of cancerous cells to a distant site. |
|
|
Term
| Metered-dose inhaler (MDI) |
|
Definition
| A handheld device that disperses a measured dose of medication in the form of a fine spray directly into the airway. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| A powerful, highly addictive central nervous system stimulant found in either a white powder form or a clear crystal form ("crystal meth"). |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| The oxidation of hemoglobin from the ferrous iron to the ferric iron state. |
|
|
Term
| Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus |
|
Definition
| Any of several bacterial strains of S. aureus resistant to methicillin (a penicillin) and related drugs; typically acquired in the hospital. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Lies below the diencephalon and above the pons; works with the pons to route information from higher within the brain to the spinal cord and vice versa. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Air-filled chamber within the temporal bone; contains the auditory ossicles. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| A recurring vascular headache characterized by unilateral onset, severe pain, sensitivity to light, and autonomic disturbances during the acute phase, which may last for hours or days. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Unit of measure of electrical current needed to elicit depolarization of the myocardium. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
Difference in electrical charge between
two points in a circuit. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| In most states, a person younger than 18 years. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Amount of gas moved in and out of the respiratory tract per minute. Tidal volume multiplied by ventilatory rate equals minute volume. The minute volume is the true measurement of a patient's ventila tory status and is vital in assessing pulmonary func tion. It ascertains the ventilatory rate and the depth of each inhalation. |
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Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Miscarriage (spontaneous abortion) |
|
Definition
| Loss of the products of conception before the fetus can survive on its own. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Performing a legal act in a harmful manner. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
Power plant of the cell and body; site of
aerobic oxidation. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Process of division and multiplication in which one cell divides into two cells. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Left atrioventricular valve in the heart; also called the bicuspid valve. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Pain occurring at time of ovulation. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| A period of manic-like energy and agitation coupled with the pessimism and dysphoria of severe depression. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A device used in an ambulance or first responder vehicle to retrieve and send call information; has its own memory storage and process ing capability. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A device used like a mobile data computer but without its own memory storage and processing capability. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A radio installed in an emergency vehicle; usually transmits by higher wattage than a portable radio. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Deployment that considers work load and how available resources can achieve a balance among coverage, response times, and crew satisfaction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A multicellular type of fungus that grows hyphae. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Type of white blood cell (leukocyte) designed to consume foreign material and fight pathogens; generally become macrophages within a few days after release into the bloodstream. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A hair-covered fat pad overlying the symphysis pubis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The dominant and sustained emotional state of a patient; the emotional lens through which a patient views the world |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Social standards that help a person define right (what a person ought to do) versus wrong (what a person ought not to do). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Having a body mass index of 40 or more; equates to approximately 100 lb more than ideal weight. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The number of patients who have died from a disease in a given period. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Area of brain tissue on the frontal lobe that controls voluntary movements. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Layer of cells lining body cavities or organs (e.g., the lining of the mouth and digestive tract); generally implies a moist surface. |
|
|
Term
| Multiformed atrial rhythm |
|
Definition
Cardiac dysrhythmia that occurs because of impulses originating from various sites, including the sinoatrial node, the atria, and/or
the atrioventricular junction; requires at least three
different P waves seen in the same lead for proper diagnosis. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| A woman who has given birth multiple times |
|
|
Term
| Multiple-casualty incident |
|
Definition
| An incident involving 26 to 99 persons. |
|
|
Term
| Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome |
|
Definition
| Altered organ function in an acutely ill person in whom homeostasis cannot be maintained without intervention. |
|
|
Term
| Multiple-patient incident |
|
Definition
| An incident involving two to 25 persons. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath surrounding neurons, causing widespread motor problems and pain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| This system allows the crew to transmit voice and data at the same time, enabling the crew to call in a patient report while transmitting an ECG strip to the hospital. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An inspiratory pause when the right upper quadrant is palpated. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Contractile tissue that is the basis of
movement. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Hereditary condition causing malformation of muscle tissue and leading to malformation of the musculoskeletal system and physical disability. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| To change in an unusual way. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A condition in which a person will not speak. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Autoimmune disorder affecting
acetylcholine receptors throughout the body, causing widespread muscle weakness. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Diseases caused by fungi. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Developmental anomaly of the central nervous system in which a hernial sac containing a portion of the spinal cord, the meninges, and cerebrospinal fluid protrudes through a congenital cleft in the vertebral column; occurs in approximately two of every 1000 live births, is readily apparent, and is easily diagnosed at birth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Working cells of the myocardium that
contain contractile filaments and form the muscular layer of the atrial walls and the thicker muscular layer of the ventricular walls. |
|
|
Term
| Myocardial depressant factor |
|
Definition
| An inflammatory mediator (cytokine) produced as a result of significant bum injury; known to affect the contractile function of the cardiac ventricles. |
|
|
Term
| Myocardial infarction (MI) |
|
Definition
| Necrosis of some mass of the heart muscle caused by an inadequate blood supply. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Inflammation of the middle and thickest
layer of the heart, the myocardium. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Middle and thickest layer of the heart; contains the cardiac muscle fibers that cause contraction of the heart as well as the conduction system and blood supply. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A pigment in muscle tissue that serves as an oxygen carrier (also known as myohemoglobin). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Presence of myoglobin in the urine;
almost always a result of a pathologic (disease) state such as widespread muscle injury. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Muscular region of the uterus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Nearsightedness; difficulty seeing objects at a distance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A rare muscle disease in which the body's immune system is activated, resulting in inflammation and pain of muscle tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Areas of the body controlled by specific motor spinal nerves. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Severe form of hypothyroidism characterized by hypothermia and unresponsiveness. |
|
|
Term
| N-95 particulate mask (medical) |
|
Definition
| A facial mask worn over the nose and mouth that removes particulates from the inspired and expired air. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Widening of the nostrils on inhalation; an attempt to increase the size of the airway and increase the amount of available oxygen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Small, saclike growths consisting of inflamed nasal mucosa. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The administration route used when a nasagastric tube is in place; bypasses the voluntary swallowing reflex. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A tube placed by way of the nose into the stomach. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Opening at the medial comer of the eye that drains excess fluid into the nasal cavity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| National Disaster Medical System |
|
Definition
| An organized response to an event that includes field units, coordination of patient transportation, and provision of hospital beds. The field component is composed of many volunteer teams of medical professionals. |
|
|
Term
| National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) |
|
Definition
International voluntary membership organization that promotes improved fire protection and prevention and
establishes safeguards against loss of life and property by fire; writes and publishes national voluntary consensus standards. |
|
|
Term
| National Flight Paramedics Association (NFPA) |
|
Definition
| Association established in 1984 to differentiate the critical care paramedic from the flight paramedic; has developed a position statement recommending the training considered necessary to perform the duties of a flight paramedic. |
|
|
Term
| National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
|
Definition
| An agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation that was first given the authority to develop EMS systems, including the development of curriculum. |
|
|
Term
| National Medical Response Team |
|
Definition
| Quick response specialty teams trained and equipped to provide mass casualty decontamination and patient care after the release of a chemical, biologic, or radiologic agent. |
|
|
Term
| National Registry of EMTs (NREMT) |
|
Definition
| A national organization developed to ensure that graduates of EMS training programs have met minimal standards by measuring competency through a uniform testing process. |
|
|
Term
| National Standard Curriculum (NSC) |
|
Definition
| Document providing information or course planning and structure, objectives, and detailed lesson plans. It also suggests hours of instruction for the EMT-A. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Nonspecific immunity that mounts a generalized response to any foreign material or pathogen (e.g., inflammation). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Specialized lymphocytes capable of killing infected or malignant cells. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A machine that turns liquid medication into fine droplets in aerosol or mist form. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Death of an area of tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Causing the death (necrosis) of tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An electrical power cable that allows the vehicle's electrical system to be grounded or neutral as an electrical circuit. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Pressure that acts as a vacuum, pulling more fluid from the vascular space at a faster rate than before, further depleting the intravascular volume; also known as inhibition pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Failure of a parent or other person with responsibility for the child to provide needed food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision such that the child's health, safety, and well-being are threatened with harm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The failure to act as a reasonably prudent and careful person would under similar circumstances. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Conduct that may be declared and treated as negligent without having to prove what would be reasonable and prudent under similar circumstances, usually because the conduct violates a law or regulation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The stinging cells many marine creatures use to envenomate and immobilize prey. |
|
|
Term
| Neonatal abstinence syndrome |
|
Definition
| Withdrawal symptoms that occur in newborns born to opioid-addicted mothers. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An infant from birth to 1 month of age, also called a newborn infant. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Cancerous growth; a tumor that may be malignant or benign. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| New blood vessel growth to support healing tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Functional unit of the kidney. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Chemicals, medications, or other substances that can be toxic to the kidneys. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Neurons and blood vessels wrapped together with connective tissue; the body's information highways. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Tissue that can conduct electrical impulses. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Congenital anomalies that involve incomplete development of the brain, spinal cord, and/or their protective coverings. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Pain caused by chronic nerve damage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Interface between a neuron and its target tissue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Shock with hypotension caused by a
sudden loss of control over the sympathetic nervous system. Loss can be caused by a variety of mechanisms from traumatic injury to disease and infection. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Supporting cells of nervous tissue; functions include nourishment, protection, and insulation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Conducting cells of nervous tissue; composed of a cell body, dendrites, and axon. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A protein that may interact with a receptor after circulation through the blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Mental diseases related to upbringing and personality in which the person remains "out of touch" with reality. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A chemical released from one nerve that crosses the synaptic cleft to reach a receptor. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A substance that counteracts the effects of acids or bases; brings the pH of a solution back to 7.0. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Penetrating radiation that can result
in whole-body irradiation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A form of granulocyte that is short lived but often first to arrive at the site of injury; capable of phagocytosis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The inability of a newborn to begin
and continue breathing at birth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An infant in the first minutes to hours after birth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An elevated, solid lesion in the deep skin or subcutaneous tissues. |
|
|
Term
| Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema |
|
Definition
| Fluid collection in the alveoli of the lung that does not result from heart failure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Failure to perform a required act or duty. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) |
|
Definition
| Medications used primarily to treat inflammation, mild to moderate pain, and fever. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Expressions, motions, gestures, and body language that may be used to communicate other than with words. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Nonthreatening bacteria found naturally in the human body that, in some cases, are necessary for normal function. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The outer boundary between the nucleus and the rest of the cell to the endoplasmic reticulum for protein synthesis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Membrane in the cell that surrounds the nucleus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Protoplasm of the nucleus as contrasted
with that of the cell. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Area within a cell where the genetic material is stored. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A woman who has not borne a child. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The number or mathematic expression written above the line in a fraction; the numerator is a portion of the denominator. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Involuntary rapid movement of the eyes in the horizontal, vertical, or rotary planes of the eyeball. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An excessively high amount of body fat or adipose tissue in relation to lean body mass. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Verifiable findings, such as information seen, felt, or heard by the paramedic. |
|
|
Term
| Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) |
|
Definition
| An anxiety disorder marked by frequent, intrusive, unwanted, and bothersome thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive ritu als (compulsions). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Blocking with an emergency vehicle to stop the flow of traffic in the lane in which the damaged vehicle is positioned plus one additional lane or the shoulder of the roadway. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Most rearward portion of the cerebrum;
mainly responsible for processing the sense of sight. |
|
|
Term
| Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) |
|
Definition
| A unit of the U.S. Department of Labor that establishes protective standards, enforces those standards, and reaches out to employers and employees through technical assistance and consultation programs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A drug's name as listed in the United
States Pharmacopoeia. |
|
|
Term
| Offline medical direction |
|
Definition
| Prospective and retrospective medical direction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| In medicine, substances extracted from flowers, leaves, stems, roots, seeds, or bark for use therapeutic treatments. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Desensitization of the sense of smell. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Located within the nasopharynx; contains receptors that enable the ability of smell (olfaction). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Protrusion of abdominal organs into the umbilical cord. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The net effect of opposing osmotic
pressures in the capillary beds. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Direct voice communication by a medical director (or designee) to a prehospital professional while he or she is attending to the patient; also called direct medical direction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The female gamete; product of the female reproductive system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A form of interview question that allows patients to respond in narrative form so that they may feel free to answer in their own way and provide details and information that they believe to be important. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Fracture of the bone tissue that breaks
the skin and may or may not still be exposed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Injury to the thoracic cavity in which the cavity is breached, allowing air into the space between the lung and the chest wall. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Carries out the tactical objectives of the incident commander. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Route of administration in which medications are applied to the eye, such as antibiotic eye drops. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An instrument used to examine the inner parts of the eye; consists of an adjustable light and multiple magnification lenses. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Powerful pain-relieving drugs derived from the seed pods of the poppy plant or drugs that are similar
in molecular structure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A route of administration in which the medication is placed in the mouth and swallowed; the drug is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| First part of the gastrointestinal tract; includes salivary glands, teeth, and tongue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A structure composed of two or more kinds of tissues organized to perform a more complex function than any one tissue alone can. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Organ of hearing located in the cochlea. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The coordination of several organs working together. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Numerous structures within the cell. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An etiology of an illness that stems from a biologic cause, such as a stroke or electrolyte imbalance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An entity composed of cells and capable of carrying on life functions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A pesticide that inhibits acetylcholinesterase. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A tube placed by way of the mouth into the stomach. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Starts at the uvula; back of the oral cavity that extends down to the epiglottis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Products developed for the diagnosis and/or treatment of rare diseases or conditions, such as sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Dyspnea relieved by a change in position (either sitting upright or standing). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Serial measurements of the patient's pulse and blood pressure taken with the patient recumbent, sitting, and standing. Results are used to assess possible volume depletion; also called the tilt test or postural vital signs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The number, or concentration, of solute per liter of water. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The passive movement of water from a higher to a lower concentration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The difference in the concentration
from one side of a membrane to the other in the presence of an imbalance in the ionic concentration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The pressure exerted by the concentration of the solutes in a given space. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A disorder in which the cartilaginous
covering of the joint surface starts to wear away, resulting in pain and inflammation of a joint; also known as degenerative joint disease. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Reduction in the amount of bone mass, which leads to fractures after minimal trauma. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Hole; usually refers to a surgically made hole in some part of the body (e.g., tracheostomy, gastrostomy, colostomy). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Route of administration in which medications are applied to the ear, such as antibiotic drops. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A condition manifested by redness and irritation of the external auditory canal; also called swimmer's ear. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Abnormal growth of bone that prevents structures in the ear from working properly; thought to be a hereditary disease. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An instrument used to examine the inner ear; consists of a light source and magnifying lens; the tip is covered with a disposable cone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A membranous structure that separates
the middle ear from the inner ear. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The ovum and its surrounding cells. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inner portion of the ovary. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Twisting of an ovary on its axis such
that the venous flow to the ovary is interrupted. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Site of egg production in females. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The accidental or intentional ingestion of an excess of a substance with the potential for toxicity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Drugs that can be purchased without a prescription. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| State of increased body weight in relation to height. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Mid-cycle release of an ovum during the
menstrual cycle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Human egg that, when fertilized, implants in the lining of the uterus and results in pregnancy. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A normal chemical process in the body
caused by the release of oxygen atoms created during normal cell metabolism. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The ability of a substance to readily
release oxygen to stimulate combustion. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A vertical structure used to store ensiled plant material in an anaerobic environment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Hemoglobin that has oxygen molecules bound to it. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| First wave in the cardiac cycle; represents atrial depolarization and the spread of the electrical impulse throughout the right and left atria. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Artificial pulse generator that delivers an electrical current to the heart to stimulate depolarization. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Specialized cells of the heart's electrical conduction system capable of spontaneously generating and conducting electrical impulses. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Placing the injured or ill patient in a litter and securing him or her for evacuation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Any stimulus that causes discomfort to the patient, triggering some sort of response. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Provision of comfort measures(physical,
social, psychological, and spiritual) to terminally ill patients. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Pale, washed-out coloration of skin. Often a result of extreme anemia or chronic illness. A patient with pallor can be referred to as pallid. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The process of applying pressure against the
body with the intent of gathering information. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An unpleasant awareness of one's heartbeat. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflammation of the pancreas. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A disease that affects the majority of the population of a single region or that is epidemic at the same time in many different regions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A sudden, paralyzing anxiety reaction char
acterized by an overwhelming sense of fear, anxiety,
and impending doom, often with physical symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty breathing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Section of the dermis composed of loose connective tissue that contains vasculature that feeds the epidermis. |
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Term
|
Definition
| Muscles attached to the chordae tendineae of the heart valves and the ventricular muscle of the heart. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
An elevated, solid lesion usually less than
0.5 centimeters in diameter; may arise from the epider
mis, dermis, or both. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| The number of pregnancies carried to term. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Method of intercellular
communication in which cells communicate with cells in close proximity through the release of paracrine
factors, or cytokines. |
|
|
Term
| Paradoxic motion (of a segment of the chest wall) |
|
Definition
| Part of the chest moves in an opposite direction from the rest during respiration. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| False perceptions of persecution and the feeling that one is being hunted or conspired against; this is the most common type of delusion. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
A form of schizophrenia char
acterized by persistent preoccupation with illogical, absurd, and changeable delusions, usually of a perse cutory, grandiose, or jealous nature, accompanied by related hallucinations. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Tight, constricting band caused by the foreskin when it is retracted behind the glans penis. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| Paralysis of the lower limbs and trunk. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
An organism that lives within or on another
organism (the host) but does not contribute to the host's survival. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A division of the autonomic
nervous system; responsible for the relaxed state of the body known as "feed and breed." |
|
|
Term
| Parasympathetic nervous system |
|
Definition
| The subdivision of the autonomic nervous system usually involved in activating vegetative functions, such as digestion, defecation, and urination. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Drugs that block or inhibit the function of the parasympathetic receptors. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Drugs that mimic the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous
system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Administration route used for systemic effects and given by a route other than the digestive tract. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Abnormal sensation described as numb
ness, tingling, or pins and needles. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Section of the cerebrum responsible for the integration of most sensory information from
the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Lining of the pleural cavity attached tightly to the interior of the chest cage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The number of pregnancies that have resulted in
a viable infant. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Progressive movement disorder caused by dysfunction in the cerebellum; rigidity, tremor, bradykinesia, and postural instability are characteristic. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A National Park Service ranger who has undergone additional wilderness medical training and who operates in certain parks under the medical direc tion of emergency physicians from University of Southern California-Fresno; scope of practice lies between a traditional EMT-Intermediate and EMT Paramedic, with additional wilderness medical training. |
|
|
Term
| Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia |
|
Definition
Atrial tachycardia that
starts or ends suddenly. |
|
|
Term
| Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND) |
|
Definition
| A sudden onset of difficulty breathing that awakens the patient from sleep. |
|
|
Term
| Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) |
|
Definition
A
regular, narrow QRS tachycardia that starts or ends
suddenly. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A drug that when bound to a receptor may elicit a physiologic response, but it is less than that of an agonist; may also may block the response of a competing agonist. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The pressure exerted by an individual
gas in a mixture. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A seizure confined to one area of the
brain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Bums that involve any layer of the dermis. The depth of these bums varies and depends on location, so they are further subcatego rized as superficial partial-thickness or deep partial thickness burns. Also called second-degree bums. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Level of vision in persons who have
some type of visual problem and may need assistance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Induced immunity that only lasts as long as the injected immune agents are alive and active (e.g., immunoglobulin injection). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Degree of movement at a joint determined when the examiner causes the movement with the patient at rest. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The ability of a substance to traverse
a barrier without any energy input; generally occurs from a higher to a lower concentration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A summary of all past health
related events. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A flat, circumscribed, discolored lesion. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Fractures that occur as a result of
an underlying disease process that weakens the mechanical properties of the bone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Functional changes that accompany a particular syndrome or disease. |
|
|
Term
| Patients with terminal illness |
|
Definition
| Patients with advanced stage of illness or disease with an unfavorable progno sis and no known cure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Gathering patient information, relating it to the health care professional's knowledge
of pathophysiology and the signs and symptoms of illnesses and injuries, and determining whether the patient's presentation fits a particular pattern. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Anticipating the equipment and emer gency care interventions needed on the basis of the patient's history and physical examination findings. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Those that leave a distinctive mark, indicating that an object was used in the assault
(e.g., cigarette bums, electrical cord whipping, human
bites, glove injuries, attempted strangulation, and slaps). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The greatest rate of airflow that
can be achieved during forced expiration beginning with the lungs fully inflated. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A device used to assess the severity of
respiratory distress. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Human infestation with lice. |
|
|
Term
| Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) |
|
Definition
| An infection of a woman's reproductive organs, usually from a bacterial infection, that spreads from the vagina to the upper parts of the reproductive tract. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Any mechanism of injury that causes a cut or piercing of skin. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Male sex organ with three columns of erectile tissue; transfers sperm during copulation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A diagnostic technique that uses tapping on the body to differentiate air, solids, and fluids. |
|
|
Term
| Performance-based response system |
|
Definition
A contractual agreement between the EMS provider and the govern
ment authority to provide ambulance response to a particular municipality or region with time require
ments for each response and total responses on a monthly basis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Circulation of blood through an organ or a part of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The potential space between the two layers of the pericardium. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An increase in the volume and/or character of pericardia!fluid that surrounds the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Life-threatening injury in which blood collects within the pericardium until the increasing pressure prevents the heart from filling with blood, causing death. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A procedure in which a needle is inserted into the pericardia!space and the excess fluid
is drawn out (aspirated) through the needle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Inflammation of the double-walled sac
(pericardium) that encloses the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Two-layer serous membrane lining the pericardial cavity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
From the twenty-eighth week of gestation
through the first 7 days after delivery. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The tissue between the mother's vaginal and
rectal openings; may be tom during delivery. |
|
|
Term
| Periodontal membrane/ligament |
|
Definition
Ligamentous attach
ment between the root of a tooth and the socket of the bone within which it sits. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Fibrous connective tissue rich in nerve endings that envelops bone. |
|
|
Term
| Peripheral nervous system |
|
Definition
| All the nerves outside the central nervous system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A vein outside the chest or abdomen, such as the veins of the upper and lower extremities. |
|
|
Term
| Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line |
|
Definition
A
thin tube inserted into a peripheral vein (usually the
arm) and threaded into the superior vena cava to allow fluid or medication administration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The wavelike contraction of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The space between the parietal and visceral peritoneum; also called the peritoneal space. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Double-layered serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the organs located in it. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Inflammation of the peritoneum, typically
caused by infection or in response to contact with blood or digestive fluids. |
|
|
Term
| Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) |
|
Definition
An infection of tissue
between the tonsil and pharynx, usually the result of a significant infection in the tonsils. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Ability of a membrane channel to allow passage of electrolytes once it is open. |
|
|
Term
| Permissible exposure limit |
|
Definition
Allowable air concentration
of a substance in the workplace as established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration; these values are legally enforceable. |
|
|
Term
| Permit-required confined space |
|
Definition
A confined space with one or more of the following characteristics:
(1) contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere; (2) contains a material with the potential
for engulfing an entrant; (3) has an internal configura tion such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxi ated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor that slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross-section; or (4) contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard. |
|
|
Term
| Personal protective equipment (PPE) |
|
Definition
Equipment used to protect personnel; includes items such as gloves,
eyewear, masks, respirators, and gowns. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The area around an individual that the person perceives as an extension of himself or herself. In the United States, personal distance is 1.5 to 4 feet. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Patterns of interacting with others and the world that are rigid and harmful,
causing social and occupational problems. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| In a patient assessment, the signs and symptoms found not to be present that support a working diagnosis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
In a patient assessment, the signs and
symptoms found to be present that support a working diagnosis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A chemical material used to control a pest
(insect, weed, etc.). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A tiny pinpoint rash on the upper area of the neck and the face; may indicate near strangulation or suffocation; caused by an occlusion of venous return from the head while arterial pressure remains normal; may be present in mothers after childbirth; reddish purple nonblanchable discolorations in the skin less than 0.5 em in diameter. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A numeric assignment used to define the hydrogen ion concentration of a given chemical. The lower the pH, the higher the hydrogen ion concentration and the more acidic the solution. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Cells that are part of the body's immune
system that play a predominant role in the destruction of invading microorganisms. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Ingestion and digestion of foreign materials by phagocytes (cells, such as macrophages, designed to perform this function). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The science of preparing and dispensing
drugs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The study of inherited differences
(variation) in drug metabolism and response. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The process by which a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated by the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Agents such as sedatives that can suppress a patient's neurologic and/or motor capa bilities so that the threat to the paramedic is reduced; also known as chemical restraints. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The study of drugs, including their actions and effects on the host. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A book describing drugs, chemicals, and
medicinal preparations in a country or specific geographic area, including a description of the drug, its formula, and dosage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The training and organizational concept that groups all the activities that take place at a typical vehicle crash with entrapment into four cate gories, with each known as a phase of rescue. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| An intense fear of a particular object or situation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A salt of phosphoric acid that is important in the maintenance of the acid-base balance of the blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A double layer composed of three
types of lipid molecules that comprise the plasma membrane. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Rods and cones contained in the
sensory part of the retina; they relay impulses to the optic nerve. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A condition in which the patient's eyes are sensitive or feel pain when exposed to bright
light. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Inflicting a nonaccidental physical injury on another person such as punching, kicking, hitting, or biting. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Disabilities that involve limitation
of mobility. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Straps, splints, and other devices that prevent movement of all or part of the patient's body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
A physician responsible for the over
sight of the EMS system and the actions of the para
medics; also known as a medical director. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Study of how the body functions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Last meningeal layer; adheres to the central nervous system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A congenital anomaly charac terized by a very small lower jaw (micrognathia), a tongue that tends to fall back and downward (glossop tosis), and cleft palate. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Dried powder forms of medication in the form of a small pellet; the term "pill" has been replaced with tablet and capsule. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| A machinery entanglement hazard formed when two machine parts move together and at least one of the parts moves in a circle. |
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