Download intro video script

University of Pittsburgh Clinical Terminology for International and U.S. Students Introduction to Module 3 We hope that you enjoyed your tour of the clinical unit and learning about the terms and abbreviations used to identify the environment, supplies, equipment, methods of recording, and the people you usually find there. You are now ready to learn about abbreviations and terms used in emergency situations, and those commonly used when administering medications and intravenous solutions. Before we begin Module 3, we will work on refining your puzzle-­‐ solving skills for discovering the meaning of medical words commonly heard on the U.S. clinical unit. Let’s examine two important terms you saw in Module One-­‐-­‐ dyspnea, defined as difficult breathing, and apnea, the absence of breathing. By examining the words, dyspnea and apnea, we see that p, n, e, a or “pnea” is used in both words. Pnea forms the central aspect or the root of the word. Using the PRS list, we find that pnea means breath or breathing. Then we use the PRS list again and see that “dys” refers to difficult. Putting together the puzzle, we attach the dys to the pnea, and we have the word dyspnea meaning difficult breathing. Using the PRS list again, we find that “a” often means without, and combined with pnea it becomes without breathing. Notice the dys is used as a prefix in many common English words, for example, the word dysfunction means difficult or impaired function. Recognizing the meaning of spoken and written medical terms becomes quicker and easier as you master the memorization of the common prefixes, roots and suffixes and then use them to discover the meaning of medical words by examining the parts. Take special note of roots they are central in the word and central to its meaning. Gradually you will come to recognize the prefixes and suffixes because they usually describe the root. Module 3 is full of excitement. I would like to ask you to mentally place yourself on a U.S. clinical unit. It is 3 o’clock in the afternoon. You have learned a lot as you have cared for a surgical patient on unit 4C. As you leave your patient’s room, you hear an announcement on the public address system. “Code Blue unit 4C. All designated personnel report to 4C.” A nurse in the hallway appears intent, walking past you toward the nursing station. You are not sure what is happening. You ask yourself, what is going on? What should I do? 1