Elsevier's Medical Terminology for the Practicing Nurse In English (with definitions)

294

dental plaque Bacterial plaque — the precur- nursing intervention should be promptly report-

sor of periodontal disease/dental caries. ed to a physician. Edges of the dry cast may be

Hollenhorst plaque Retinal embolism. made smooth by petalling with adhesive tape.

plasma The liquid of lymph/blood. It is to this plastic bronchitis That with fibrin exudate adher-

component that patients might react. Blood ing to the bronchial structures.

plasma may be frozen. plastic surgery Operative reconstruction, repair,

antihemophilic plasma That serum from which restoration of an abnormality, injury, defect.

the antihemophilic globin has been preserved plateau A flat, elevated area. Persistent, consis-

— to be used in the intervention of hemophiliac tent fever. Slow weight progress.

hemorrhaging. platelet A thrombocyte which achieves blood

normal human plasma Sterile, pooled plasma. coagulation, thrombus formation, hemostasis.

plasmacytoma Plasmocytoma, plasmoma — a platelet concentrate Platelet blood fraction

plasma cell tumor which occurs in bone mar- which is suspended in its plasma. The expira-

row. tion date must be heeded.

plasmacytosis Excessive blood plasma. plateletpheresis Extraction of platelets, with

plasma exchangetherapy Experimental treat- infusion of that blood back to the donor and the

ment for neuropathy, in which litres of diseased platelets to the patient.

plasma are replaced by normal plasma. platycephaly Flattened cranium, platycrania.

plasmapheresis The centrifugation of plasma in platycoriasis Platycoria, mydriasis — pupillary

order to separate packed cells and plasma. dilation.

These components may be infused as specific platymeric A broad femur.

therapy for a number of severediseases. platyopic An extremely flat, broad face.

plasma protein fraction The standardized frac- platypellic Platypelvic — a broadened pelvis.

tionation of globulin and serum albumin — platypnea Orthopnea — the need for pillows to

which is considered to be a sterile product. breathe. ("2 pillow orthopnea", et al.)

plasmatorrhexis Plasmorrhexis, erythrorrhexis, platyrrhine An extremely wide nose.

erythrocytorrhexis — the loss of plasma from platyspondylisis Flattenedvertebrae.

cell rupture, due to internal edema. platystencephaly A widened occiput.

plasma volume extender High molecular, intra- play therapy Pediatric psychotherapy, by which

venous (IV) solutions such as dextran or pro- children are psychiatrically assessed and treated

teins — which treat shock due to blood loss. while they play.

plasmoma Plasmacytoma. pleasure principle That psychoanalytic concept

plaster That hardening material applied to immo- that man instinctively seeks to avoid discom-

bilize a part of the body, extremity, trunk. fort/pain, and strives for gratification and fulfill-

adhesive plaster Adhesive-lined plaster applied ment. Hedonism.

for immobilization, to secure traction, to apply pleocytosis That elevated number of cells in the

pressure. (The surface should be clean and dry.) cerebrospinal fluid.

resin plaster That pediatric form containing pleonasm An excess of body

lead, wax, and resin for use as a soothing agent. parts/organs/words.

plaster cast Gauze bandaging impregnated with pleonexia Materialism.

plaster which forms a supportive framework pleonosteosis Premature, excessive ossification.

when moistened and applied. The wet cast can Leri's pleonosteosis That hereditary group of

be pitted if held too tightly, causing pressure symptoms including Mongoloid facies, prema-

points. Neurovascular assessment of the area ture/excessive ossification, shortened stature.

must be made diligently and frequently. plerosis That recovery/restoration of atrophied

Compromised innervation/circulation could tissue.

result in permanent loss of function/limb. plesiopia Increased convexity of the crystalline

Pressure areas may be experienced as a burning lens.

sensation. Discomfort which is not relieved by plethora Excessivebody fluids. Distention from

295

congested circulation. caused by tetanic spasm(s).
pleuracentesis Thoracentesis — surgically tap- plexus An anastomosing network.

ping the pleural cavity of abnormal fluid. autonomic plexus The sympathetic/parasympa-
pleural effusion Pleurorrhea. thetic neural network.
pleural fibrosis Hypertrophy of the pleurae, with cavernous plexus That within a body cavity.
(There are many.)
obliteration of the pleural space — as seen in enteric plexus The neural network within the
pulmonary tuberculosis. alimentary wall.
pleuralgia Intercostal neuralgia — pleuritic pain myenteric plexus Auerbach's plexus.
in the side. pampiniform plexus A venous network within
pleurectomy Partial pleural excision. the pelvis.
pleurisy Pleural inflammation which may be pampiniform plexus in the female That which
acute, adhesive, diaphragmatic, dry, encysted, drains the ovary(s) within the mesovarium.
fibrinous, hemorrhagic, interlobar, plastic, pul- pampiniform plexus in the male That which
monary, purulent, sacculated, serofibrinous, drains the testis within the spermatic cord.
serous, suppurative, tubercular, typhoid, viscer- prevertebral plexus The autonomic neural net-
al, wet. work anterior to the spine.
pleuritis The most common thoracic manifesta- pliability The ability to be twisted, bent, adapted,
tion of rheumatoid arthritis, pleurisy. conformed.
pleurocele Serous, pleural effusion. Herniation plication The suturing of tucks/folds to decrease
of the pleurae/lungs. an organ's size.
pleurocholecystitis Inflammation of the pleura(e) plombage Therapeutic pulmonary collapse
and gallbladder. achieved by stripping pleura from the parietal
pleuroclysis Lavage of the thoracic cavity. chest wall. This space is then packed with an
pleurodesis Adhesions between the pleurae — inert substance.
developed surgically in the patient with pericar- plumbism Lead poisoning.
dial effusion, who has failed to respond to other Plummer-Vinson syndrome Iron-poor anemia
measures. Sterile talc is used as the sclerosing accompanied by an esophageal web, gastric
agent. This is a method of treating recurrent achlorhydria, splenomegaly, spooning of the
pneumothorax. nails, dysphagia.
pleurodynia Sharp intercostal/chest wall pain — pluridyscrinia Simultaneous comorbidity of
thoracalgia/thoroacodynia. many endocrine organs.
epidemic pleurodynia Bornholm disease — plurilocular Multilocular — consisting of cavities
that communicable disease characterized by
fever and chest pain. or compartments.
pleurohepatitis Pleural and hepatic inflamma- pluripotentiality That capacity of varied actions.
tion.
pleurolith A calculus between the pleurae. Varicellular development.
pleurolysis Therapeutic collapse of the lung, to plutomania Delusional wealth.
achieve healing of pulmonary disease. PMI The point of maximal ventricular
pleuromelus That congenital abnormality in
which an accessory limb is attached to the tho- impulse/intensity. That left ventricular pulsation
rax. which can sometimes be seen and palpated
pleuropericarditis Comorbidity of pleuritis and through the chest wall.
pericarditis. pneocardiac reflex Upon inhalation of noxious
pleuroperitoneal cavity Celom, the body cavity. fumes, those rate/rhythm changes which occur
pleuropneumonia Pleurisy secondary to pneu- in the vital signs.
monia. pneopneic reflex Alterations in pulmonary
pleurorrhea Pleural effusion. edema, suffocation, coughing, respiratory
pleurothotonos Lateral arching of the spine rate/depth secondary to the inhalation of poiso-
nous gases.
pneumatic In referenceto respirations, gas,

296

compressed and/or rarefied air. an organ, cavity.
pneumatocardia The presence of gas/air in the
pneumohemia Air/gas within the circulation.
cardiac chambers. pheumohemopericardium Blood/air within the
pneumatocele Pneumocele, pneumonocele —
pericardial sac.
herniation of pulmonary or scrotal tissues by pneumohemothorax The pleural accumulation of
air.
extracranial pneumatocele The skull fracture fluid/air.
which communicates with a paranasal sinus, pneumohydrometra A uterine collection of air
causing air to amass under the scalp.
intracranial pneumatocele Air/gas within the and/or fluid.
skull. pneumohydropericardium Collection of fluid/air
pneumatodyspnea That attributed to pulmonary
emphysema. in the pericardial sac.
pneumatorrhachis Intrathecal air within the cere- pneumohydrothorax Pleural accumulation of
brospinal canal.
pneumatosis The abnormal presenceof air/gas air/fluid.
within the body. pneumolithiasis That formation of pulmonary
pneumatosis abdominis Pneumoperitoneum.
pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis Air-filled calcification.
intestinal cysts of unknown etiology. If these do pneumomediastinum Pathologic presence of air
not dissipate spontaneously, their rupture could
cause a pneumoperitoneum. in the mediastinum — which may be induced
pneumatothorax Pneumothorax — accumulated for diagnostic purposes.
pleural air. pneumonectasia Pneumonectasis — pulmonary
pneumobulbar In reference to the lung(s) and distention by air.
respiratory center of the brain. pneumonectomy Pneumectomy, pulmonectomy,
pneumocentesis Paracentesis, pneumonocente- excision of a lung.
sis. pneumonia Pulmonary inflammation which may
pneumocephalus Pneumocranium — air within occur suddenly with chest pain, chills, cough
productive of bloody/purulent sputum, high
the skull. fever. Pneumonitis.
pneumococcal disease That severe respiratory abortive pneumonia That brief course of this
disease.
infection by which the immunocompromised, acute lobar pneumonia Pneumonitis, fibrinous
asplenic, cirrhotic, sickled, nephrotic, and insti- pneumonia, apical pneumonia, due to pneu-
tutionalized face a high fatality rate. monococci.
pneumoconiosis Pneumonoconiosis — an occu- alba pneumonia Fatal respiratory disease of
pational hazard in that environment in which the neonate with congenital syphilis.
aspiration pneumonia Deglutition pneumonia
foreign debris is inhaled by workers. — that occurring secondary to inhalation of a
pneumocystis carinii pneumonia(PCP) A rare foreign substance.
bilateral pneumonia Double pneumonia —
and resistant pneumonitis which has made a that in which both lungs are involved.
resurgence as HIV disease has escalated. PCP is bronchopneumonia Bronchial pneumonia,
an end-stage complication. Pneumocystosis. catarrhal pneumonia — that caused by mixed
pneumoencephalography X-ray examination of bacterial infection (due to aspiration, anesthesia,
the subarachnoid spaces and ventricles follow- chronicity), et al.
ing aspiration of cerebrospinal fluid and caseous pneumonia That caused by tuberculo-
intrathecal injection of air. sis, secondary to pulmonary necrosis.
pneumoenteritis Comorbidity of intestinal congenital aspirationpneumonia Disease
inflammation with pneumonia. acquired in utero, or by aspiration during partu-
pneumography A graphic recording of respira- rition.
tions. X-rays following the insufflation of air into desquamative interstitial pneumonia That pul-
monary inflammation of unknown etiology,
accompanied by fibrosis/cellular infiltration in

297

the pulmonary interstitium. Carbon dioxide/oxy- secondary pneumonia That occurring in
gen diffusion is abnormal, clubbing of the fin- comorbidity with another systemic disease.
gers may be seen, and dyspnea is progressive. terminal pneumonia Fatal pneumonitis which
The cough is nonproductive. is comorbid to another illness.
embolic pneumonia That following emboliza- traumatic pneumonia Contusion pneumonia —
tion of a blood vessel in the lung. that which follows thoracic injury.
eosinophilic pneumonia That characterized by tuberculosis pneumonia That malignant condi-
chronic/transient lung changes caused by infes- tion which becomes chronic/terminal if not suc-
tation, fungal involvement, chemical agents. cessfully treated.
Friedlander's pneumonia Lobar pneumonia in typhoid pneumonia Pneumonitis, pneumoty-
which the causative organism is Klebsiella pneu- phus which complicates typhoid fever.
moniae. varicella pneumonia Pneumonitis secondary
gangrenous pneumonia That involving necro- to chickenpox.
sis of lung tissue. viral pneumonia Acute systemic disease
giant cell pneumonia Hecht pneumonia — that caused by viral agents.
pediatric interstitial pulmonitis secondary to woolsorter's pneumonia Pulmonary anthrax.
rubeola. pneumonitis Pneumonia.
hypostatic pneumonia That which occurs in hypersensitivity pneumonitis Allergic alveolitis.
the immobile patient due to lack of movement pneumonococcal disease Signs and symptoms
and positioning, compounded by circulatory (s/sx): abrupt onset of fever, rigor (1 episode
congestion. only), pleuritic chest pain, productive cough,
influenza pneumonia That comorbidity which mucopurulent sputum, dyspnea, tachypnea,
may be fatal. Pneumonitis attributed to hypoxia, tachycardia, general malaise, weak-
Hemophilus influenzae. ness, anorexia, nausea with emesis,headache.
interstitial pneumonia Inflammation occurring Complications include bacteremia, empyema,
within the pulmonary parenchyma instead of the pericarditis, endobronchial obstruction with
airway structures. atelectasis/pulmonary abscess, death.
intrauterine pneumonia That acquired by the pneumonography X-rays of the lungs, chest X-
fetus prior to birth. ray, pulmonary roentgenography.
Legionella pneumonia Legionnaires' disease, pneumonolysis Pneumolysis — dissection of
an acute lobar pneumonitis caused by adherent lung tissue from the chest wall to
Legionella pneumophila. achieve therapeutic collapse.
lipid pneumonia That following aspiration of an pneumonomelanosis Pneumomelanosis — that
oil-based substance. blackening of lung tissue caused by coal dust
lobar pneumonia Central pneumonia which inhalation.
evolves from congestion, to the production of pneumonomycosis Pneumomycosis — a fungal
an exudate, to erythrocytes in the alveoli, to lung disease.
consolidation. pneumonoperitonitis Visceral infection with free
migratory pneumonia Involvement which shifts gas in the peritoneum.
within the lung. pneumonopexy Pneumopexy — that suturing of
pneumocystis carinii pneumonia(PCP) lung tissue to the thoracic wall.
Pneumocystosis — that seen in immunodefi- pneumonorrhaphy Suturing of pulmonary
cient adults, debilited and/or marasmic children. parenchyma.
Signs/symptoms include dyspnea, low grade pneumonosis Any degenerative pulmonary
fever, nonproductive cough, tachypnea. These process.
patients have a high comorbidity, mortality. pneumonotomy Pneumotomy — that incision
primary atypical pneumonia Mild involvement developed into pulmonary tissue.
with greater X-ray demonstration than that sug- pneumopathy Any disease process affecting the
gested by objective/subjective symptomatology. lung(s).

298

pneumopericardium Pericardial air auscultated sure.

as tympanic precordial, metallic heart sounds. pneumotomy Surgical incision of the lung.

This reveals a pathological/traumatic communi- podagra Gout of the foot/feet.

cation between the pericardial sac and the podalgia A painful foot/feet.

esophagus, lungs, or stomach. podalic version That turning of the fetus during

pneumoperitoneum Pneumatosis abdominis — labor, in order to achieve a caudal presentation.

that instillation of air into the peritoneal cavity podedema Pedal edema — dependent edema.

as a method of treating tuberculous peritonitis. podencephalus The congenital and lethal anom-

(Surgical extirpation of the cavitary lesion aly in which much of the brain is outside the

replaced this as the surgical procedure of cranium.

choice.) POEMS syndrome Crow-Fukasesyndrome, PEP

pneumoperitonitis Inflammation of the peri- syndrome (a peculiar, progressive polyneuritis

toneal cavity by an accumulation of air. with pigmentation, edema, and plasma dyscra-

pneumopleuritis That inflammation of pleurae sia), Shimpo's syndrome, Takatsuki syndrome.

and pulmonary tissue. This rare disorder includes: P (polyneuropathy);

pneumopyopericardium Accumulated air and 0 (organomegaly); E (endocrinopathy); M (M

suppuration within the pericardial sac. proteins); S (skin changes).

pneumopyothorax That pleural accumulation of pogoniasis Hirsutism — excessivebeard growth

pus/air. in the female.

pneumoretroperitoneum That retroperitoneal poikilocytosis Variations in the shape of erythro-

accumulation of gas/air. cytes.

pneumorrhachis Air within the spinal canal. poikilodentosis That mottling of the teeth by

pneumorrhagia Pulmonary hemorrhage. excessive fluoride.

pneumoserothorax Serum/air within the thoracic poikiloderma A cutaneous disorder characterized

cavity. by atrophy, pigmentation, pruritus, purpura,

pneumothorax Aeropleura, aerothorax, pneuma- telangiectasis.

tothorax. Pathological/traumatic/therapeutic per- poikiloderma atrophicans vasculare

foration which permits air to enter the thoracic Symmetrical dermatitis of unknown etiology/ori-

cavity. Signs/symptoms include absent breath gin, in which extensive pigmentation, telangiec-

sounds, distention of the unilateral chest, dysp- tasia, and dermal atrophy are noted.

nea, succussion (a splashing sound when the poikiloderma of Civatte Pigmented telangiecta-

patient is shaken), sudden pain in the involved sis of the bilateral face/neck. This may be seen

side, and/or tympanitic resonance. in menopausal women.

artificial pneumothorax That surgically induced poikilothermy Assuming the same temperature

to collapse and rest the lung with pneumonia or as one's environment.

tuberculosis. Therapeutic pneumothorax is Poison ControlCenter One of 400+ facilities

being replaced by surgical excision in recent across the United States and Canada, which will

tuberculosis therapy. consult on poisoning and overdosage at any

open pneumothorax That in which the chest hour:+1 (800)955-9119.

wound allows communication with the atmos- poisoning After ruling out conditions which

phere. mimic symptoms of toxicity, this designation

spontaneous pneumothorax Idiopathic admis- may become the working diagnosis. Those

sion of air into the pleural space with shift of the mimicking conditions include acute indigestion,

mediastinum. Atelectasis, cough, dyspnea, and appendicitis, cerebral hemorrhage, diabetic

pain occur. Rest may be the only therapy indi- coma, epilepsy, gastritis, insulin shock, menin-

cated. gitis, peptic ulceration, renal colic, thrombosis,

tension pneumothorax Valvular pneumothorax uremia. Identify the toxic agent(s), contact the

— that entrance of air into the pleural cavity, Poison Control Center for directions, establish

which results in atelectasis with increased pres- an airway and induce emesis (or lavage the

299

stomach) when indicated, treat for shock, sup- polioencephalitis hemorrhagica Inflammation of
port the patient, and hospitalize as ordered. the central nervous system, accompanied by
arsenic poisoning Symptomatology may not hemorrhagic lesions.
appear for hours — odor of garlic, coma, con-
vulsions, dehydration, gastrointestinal sensation polioencephalomeningomyelitis Inflammation
of burning, metallic taste, paralysis, vomiting, of the gray matter of the brain, spinal cord, and
shock, death. Transfusions may be required. the meninges.
blood poisoning Septicemia. Pathogenic organ-
isms in the blood may cause abscesses, fever poliomyelencephalitis Comorbidity of polioen-
with chilling, petechiae, purpuric pustules, over- cephalitis with poliomyelitis.
whelming sepsis leading to death.
convulsive poisoning This category produces poliomyelitis That communicable inflammation
asphyxia, cyanosis, dyspnea, exhaustion, mus- of the spinal cord gray matter — an acute virus
cular rigidity, seizures, tachycardia, trismus. which may result in muscular atrophy and per-
Death ensues following an exhaustive, asphyxi- manent paralysis/deformity. Any flaccid paresis
ated state. for which no other cause can be identified.
corrosive poisoning That caused by strong Those pediatric cases (age 14 and younger)
alkalies, acids, antiseptics — which ingestion diagnosed as Guillian-Barre syndrome. There
causes caustic tissue destruction and/or mucos- has been tremendous progress in the global
al perforation. Death may come from eradication of poliomyelitis. Although not elimi-
shock/choking. nated, the risk of wild polio has been greatly
fish poisoning Shellfish anaphylaxis may occur reduced.
in those unaware of their sensitivity. Any abortive poliomyelitis The milder condition
amount must be avoided, as well as combined which has no central nervous system (CNS)
foods which do not mention the ingredients — involvement.
mixed pizza, casseroles,etal., until confirmed. acute anterior poliomyelitis Marked involve-
food poisoning Ptomaine poisoning caused by ment which may attack the gastrointestinal,
food which has become toxic, due to bacterial musculoskeletal, neurological, and/or respirato-
action, decomposition. ry system(s).
lead poisoning These patients may present in ascending poliomyelitis That in which the
acute encephalopathy or chronic toxicity. paresis progresses up the legs to involve the
Symptoms include abdominal pain, anemia, trunk and respiratory muscles.
anorexia, joint pain, lead gum line, muscle bulbar poliomyelitis Involvement of the gray
cramping, nausea with emesis, excessive saliva- matter of the medulla oblongata, resulting in
tion, mental retardation. paralysis, respiratory failure, and/or death.
mercury poisoning This lethal toxicity presents myelopathic progressive muscular atrophy
with acute symptomatology — hemorrhagic Chronic anterior poliomyelitis.
vomiting and diarrhea, metallic taste, oliguria, nonparalytic poliomyelitis That with leuko-
severe gastrointestinal cramping, pharyngeal cytes/protein in the cerebrospinal fluid, and
constriction, et al. Convulsions, coma, and expi- back pain with nuchal rigidity.
ration may follow. paralytic poliomyelitis That central nervous
poisoning by unknown agents Charcoal slurry or system (CNS) damage which results in incoordi-
universal antidotes may be given as per proto- nation, disturbance of consciousness, flaccidity,
col. muscle spasms/weakness.
polarity Bipolarity — that status of extreme
opposites (poles) which may be alternating, pollakiuria Abnormally frequent voiding.
concurrent, or potential. pollicization The plastic surgery reconstruction
poleptic The disease characterized by multiple
exacerbations/remissions. of a thumb from adjacent tissue. This is the
most vital digit.
pollinosis Allergic rhinitis, "hay fever".
pollution Corruption by impurities.
noise pollution That level of sound which is of
such intensity that physical/mental damage/dis-

300

POLIO ABOUT THE DISEASE Who should get OPV?
VACCINE
Polio is a serious disease. It Most doctors recommend
What you need to spreads when germs pass that almost all young children
know before you or from an infected person to get OPV. But there are some
your child gets the the mouths of others. Polio cautions. Tell your doctor or
vaccine can: nurse if the person getting the
vaccine or anyone else in
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH 1 HUMAN SERVICES • paralyze a person (make close contact with the person
PuUKHaiUiSwvn arms and legs unable to getting the vaccine is less
move) able to fight serious infections
ContonstorDisseaseControl because of:
and Prevention • cause death
• a disease she/he was born
ABOUT THE VACCINES with

Benefits of the vaccines • treatment with drugs such
as long-term steroids
Vaccination is the best way to
protect against polio. • any kind of cancer
Because most children get • cancer treatment with
the polio vaccines, there are
now very few cases of this dis- x-rays or drugs
ease. Before most children • AIDS or HIV infection
were vaccinated, there were
thousands of cases of polio. If so. your doctor or nurse will
probably give IPV instead of
There are 2 kinds of polio OPV.
vaccine
If you are older than age 18
OPV or Qral Polio Vaccineis years, you usually do not
the one most often given to need polio vaccine.
children. It is given by mouth
as drops. It iseasy to give and Travel
works well to stop the spread If you are traveling to a coun-
of polio. fry where there is polio, you
should get either OPV or IPV.
IPV or Inactivated Polio
Vaccine isgiven as a shot in Pregnancy
the leg or arm. If protection is needed during
pregnancy. OPV or IPV can
OPV schedule be used

Most children should have a Allergy to neomvcln or
total of 4 OPV vaccines.They streptomycin
should have OPV at: Does the person getting the
vaccine have an allergy to
• 2 months of age the drugs neomycin or
• 4 months of age streptomycin? If so, she/he
• 6-18 months of age should get OPV, but not IPV
• 4-6 years of age Ask your doctor or nurse if you
are not sure

Other vaccines may be given
at the same time as OPV.

comfort results. All are at risk for hearing loss associated with severe hypertension. These
in this environment. impressive systemic manifestations may affect
any organ system — which, in turn, will deter-
polyadenitis Inflammation of lymph nodes. mine the presenting signs/symptoms.
polyadenomatosis Multiple glandular tumors. Hypersensitivity is implicated in the unknown
polyangitis Inflammation of multiple blood ves- etiology. Without treatment, the prognosis is
sels. fatal — due to ruptured aneurysm, gastroin-

polyarteritis nodosa Periarteritis nodosa — that

301

Tell your doctor or nurse if the person getting the Risks from IPV
vaccine: This vaccine isnot known to cause problems
except mild soreness where the shot isgiven.
• ever had a serious allergic reaction or other
problem after getting polio vaccine What to do if there is a serious reaction:

• now has moderate or severe illness Call a doctor or get the person to a doctor
right away.
If you are not sure, ask your doctor or nurse.
Write down what happened and the date
What are the risks from polio vaccine? and time it happened.

As with any medicine, there are very small risks Ask your doctor, nurse, or health department
that serious problems, even death, could occur to file a Vaccine Adverse Event Report form
after getting a vaccine. or call:

The risks from the vaccine are much smaller than (800) 822-7967 (toll-free)
the risks from the disease if people stopped using
vaccine. The National Vaccine Injuny Compensation
Program gives compensation (payment) to
Almost all people who get polio vaccine have persons thought to be injured by vaccines. For
no problems from it. details call:

Risks from OPV (800) 338-2382(toll-free)
Risks to the person taking OPV:
There isa very small chance of getting polio If you want to learn more, ask your doctor or
disease from the vaccine. nurse. She/he can give you the vaccine package
• about 1 case occurs for every11/2million first insert or suggest other sources of information.

doses
• about 1case occurs for every 30 million later

doses

Risks to people who never took polio vaccine
who have close contact with the person taking
OPV:
After a person gets OPV, It can be found In his or
her mouth and stool. If you never took polio vac-
cine, there is a very small chance of getting polio
disease from close contact with a child who got
OPV in the past 30 days. (Examples of close con-
tact include changing diapers or kissing.)
• about 1 case occurs for every 2 million first

doses
• about 1case occurs for every 15million later

doses
Talk to your doctor or nurse about getting IPV.

testinal hemorrhage, and/or (multi)organ failure. polycheiria That anomaly of excessive hands.
polyarthritis Amarthritis — the simultaneous polycholia Abnormal production of bile.
polychondritis Multiple sites of inflamed carti-
involvement of multiple joints.
chronic villous polyarthritis Long-term multi- lage.
ple synovial involvement. chronic atrophic relapsing polychondritis A
polyavitaminosis Multiple vitamin deficiencies. degenerative disease of unknown etiology, for
polyblennia Production of excessive mucus. which no cure is known. Becausethe cartilage

302

of the bronchi, ears, joints, nose, and trachea primary adrenal insufficiency. Type II: The age

are involved, death may ensue — caused by of onset approximates 30 years. The primary

compromised respiratory effort and recurrent adrenal insufficiency may be complicated by

infections. autoimmune thyroid disease and/or insulin-

polychrest The drug with multiple disease indica- dependent diabetes mellitus.

tions. polyesthesia An abnormal tactile sensation in

polychromasia Polychromatic — multicolored. which a stimulus is perceived in multiple sites.

polychromatophilia Polychromophiha — exces- polygalactia Excessive lactation.

sive polychromatophil cells in the circulation. polygamy That practice of having more than one

polyclinic A general hospital. marriage simultaneously.

polyclonia That condition characterized by multi- polyganglionic Multiple ganglia.

ple clonic spasms — neither tics nor chorea. polygastria An excessivesecretion of gastric

polycoria The presence of multiple pupils. acid.

polycyesis A multiple pregnancy. polygnathus Conjoinedtwins of unequal size, of

polycystic ovarian syndrome That in which the whom the smaller is fused to the jaw of the

ovaries are enlarged with cysts. Obesity, hir- more viable twin.

sutism, infertility and/or hormonal imbalance polygyria That excess of cerebral convolutions.

may occur. A variety of treatment options may polyhedral Multisurfaced, multifaceted.

include fertility enhancement drugs, oral contra- polyhidrosis Hyperhydrosis — perspiration in

ceptives to restore hormonal balance, other spe- excess.

cific needs of the individual patient. polyhydramnios Excessiveamniotic fluid —

polycythemia Erythrocytosis, polyhemia. which may indicate a life-threatening status for

compensatory polycythemia Secondary poly- the fetus.

cythemia — that caused by physiological condi- polyhydruria Elevated specific gravity because of

tions. excessively hydrated urine.

polycythemia vera Erythremia, splenomegalic polyhypermenorrhea Excessivemenses in fre-

polycythemia, myelopathic polycythemia, poly- quency and in flow.

cythemia rubra, primary polycythemia, poly- polyhypomenorrhea Excessively frequent

cythemia rubra vera, Rendu-Osler-Weber dis- menses with scanty flow.

ease. Almost all cases reveal evidence of polyinfection Multi-infections, comorbidity.

splenomegaly. Phlebotomy with/without polyleptic That disease characterized by multiple

chemotherapy is provided to combat the remissions/exacerbations.

increase in hemoglobin concentration and cell polymastia Polymazia, pleomazia, pleomastia,

mass. This myeloproliferative disorder affects all multimammae — that anomaly of more than 2

bone marrow tissue, resulting in a reduction of breasts.

prognosis. polymelia That congenital abnormality of super-

polydactyly Supernumerary digits. numerary extremities.

polydipsia Excessivethirst which cannot be sat- polymer fume fever The victim of an occupation-

isfied. al exposure to the inhalation of fumes from

polydysplasia Multiple congenital developmental heated polymers may present with chest tight-

anomalies. ness, chilling, fever, pharyngitis, and/or weak-

polydystrophy Multiple connective tissue abnor- ness.

malities. polymerism Polymeria — the presence of super-

polyendocrine deficiency syndrome The two numerary body parts.

groups of Schmidt's syndrome, characterized by polymicrogyria That deformed brain in which

primary adrenal insufficiency are: Type I: polygyria has developed.

Appearing at age 12, alopecia, chronic hepatitis, polymorphous Polymorphic, multiform, polymor-

hypoparathyroidism, malabsorption, mucocuta- phous — appearing in multiple shapes.

neous candidiasis, and/or pernicious anemia, polymyalgia rheumatica Polymyalgia arteritica

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— sometimes associated with cranial/temporal polyopsia Polyopia — multiple visual images.
arteritis, pelvic/shoulder pain, marked elevation polyotia Possessing an extra ear(s).
of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), polyovulatory The release of multiple ova in one
absence of inflammatory arthritis/muscle dis-
ease. Corticosteroid therapy yields a prompt ovulatory cycle — the only condition under
response. which twins will be identical.
polymyoclonus Multiple muscular contractions polyp Polypus — a pedunculated tumor found in
— myoclonus multiplex, paramyoclonus multi- a vascular area. Surgical excision is required if
plex, occurring simultaneously. malignancy seems to be likely.
polynesic That found in multiple foci/areas/sites. adenomatous polyp A benign neoplasm within
polyneural Multiply innervated. glandular tissue.
polyneuralgia Neuralgia in multiple sites. bleeding polyp An angioma within the mucous
polyneuritis Multiple inflammation of the nerves. membranes of the nose.
acute idiopathic polyneuritis Landry's paraly- cardiac polyp When near a heart valve, this
sis. growth may intermittently block the valve.
Jamaica ginger polyneuritis Transient "Ginger cervical polyp A mucous/fibrous tumor within
paralysis" of the extremities, following ingestion the uterine cervix.
of this Jamaican drink. choanal polyp A nasal tumor which involves
metabolic polyneuritis That caused by meta- the pharynx.
bolic conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, fibrinous polyp That uterine tumor which con-
pathologic/toxemic states, toxemias, anemias. tains blood and fibrin.
toxic polyneuritis That caused by poisons, gelatinous polyp A myxoma — that neoplasm
alcohol (ETOH),carbon monoxide (CO), et al. composed of edematous tissue.
polyneuromyositis The comorbidity of Hopmann's polyp A papillary neoplasm in the
polymyositis with polyneuritis. nasal mucosae.
polyneuropathy Polyneuritis, multiple neuritis. hydatid polyp A cystic, pedunculated neo-
Peripheral nerve involvement which is nonin- plasm.
flammatory, affecting temperature/pain senses. juvenile polyp A retention polyp — that
Blood glucose is to be drawn. (Diabetes mellitus benign, mucosal hamartoma of the colon.
is the most frequent etiology in America.) Infants may present with multiple neoplasms.
buckthorn polyneuropathy Following ingestion laryngeal polyp An occupational condition of
of buckthorn fruit, symmetrical neural involve- public speakers and singers, these tumors of
ment of the legs ascends to the brain stem. the vocal cords extend into the bronchial tree. If
Respiratory paralysis may lead to death. not treated successfully, the patient could lose
Recovery to complete functioning is slow. this special ability.
erythredema polyneuropathy Of unknown eti- placental polyp That which contains retained
ology, this pediatric acrodynia ischaracterized placental tissue.
by degenerative alterations in peripheral nerves, vascular polyp An angioma which is peduncu-
motor/sensory disturbances, dermatologic con- lated.
ditions. polyparesis Generalizedparalysis of paralytic
porphyric polyneuropathy Following acute por- dementia — which is progressive.
phyria, flaccid paralysis may attack the extremi- polypathia Multimorbidity, comorbidity.
ties, accompanied by paresthesia/pain. polypectomy The surgical excision of a polyp(s).
progressive hypertrophic polyneuropathy That polyphagia Pathological overeating.
rare, inherited pediatric involvement which polyphalangism Excessivedigits on an extremi-
causes neural hypertrophy — a familial condi-
tion. ty.
polyodontia Supernumerary teeth. Polydontia. polypharmacy The prescription of multiple
polyonychia Polyunguia — supernumery nails.
agents. Excessiveself-medication with over-the-
counter agents. Inherent is the risk of accumu-
lated psychotropic drugs by the suicidal patient.

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Also is the concern of accumulated agents with ment.

multiple interactions by the geriatric patient. polyuria Urorrhagia — urine formation and void-

This may become evident in the patient's lack of ing to excess. (The urine will be dilute, color-

progress, and paradoxical side effects. (All med- less.) This may be seen in chronic nephritis,

ications place children at risk.) diabetes insipidus/mellitus, hyperthyroidism,

polyphobia Multiple exaggerated fears. nephrosclerosis, diuresis, excessive fluid intake,

polyplastic That derived from many substances. treatment of heart failure, and/or following ede-

That which has evolved through multiple modifi- matous conditions.

cations. Pompe's disease Type IIA glycogen storage dis-

polyplegia Paresis involving multiple muscle ease. A rare, inherited disorder which leads to

groups. heart and muscle weakness without atrophy.

polypnea Tachypnea (which a patient cannot Untreated, these children expire by age 2 years.

sustain beyond a few days). Bone marrow transplants are attempting to give

polypodia Possessing more than two feet. these young patients time and hope. Diuresis

polyposis The formation of multiple polyps. prevents renal failure during episodes of globin-

familial polyposis A rare progression which uria. Macroglossia, cardiomegaly and/or

may evolve from infection to intussception to hepatomegaly may be seen.

malignancy. This tends to run in families. pompholyx Chronic, deep vesicles of the

nasal polyposis A condition caused by aspirin palms/soles. Dueto dyshidrosis, these lesions

sensitivity, cystic fibrosis, sinusitis. may be pruritic. A response to cortisone prepa-

Symptomatology includes allergic salute, rhinor- rations is usually seen.

rhea, sneezingspasms. pontile hemiplegia Unilateral paralysis of the

polyposis coli Intestinal polyps. face and of the extremities on the contralateral

polyposis ventriculi Multiple polyps of the gas- side. This is attributed to a pontine lesion.

tric mucosa — which may include atrophic gas- pool An accumulation of fluid. The grouping of

tritis. blood products from multiple donors/locations.

polypotome That surgical instrument used to abdominal pool That state during shock, in

excise polyps. which blood accumulates within and around the

polypotrite A surgical device which crushes viscera.

polyps. vaginal pool Those cells/tissues present in the

polyradiculoneuritis Inflamed spinal ganglia and posterior fornix — which are used to evaluate

peripheral nerves. infertility, and to detect carcinoma.

polyradiculoneurophathy Guillian Barre's syn- poradenitis The formation of iliac abscesses.

drome. porcine Derived from a pig — as may be a skin

polyscelia The congenital anomaly of 3 or more graft, or heart valves.

legs. porencephalitis Cerebral inflammation with

polysomia A congenital anomaly of more than development of cavities which communicate

one body. with the subarachnoid space.

polyspermism Polyspermia, polyspermy — fer- pornography Erotic media which heightens

tilization of the ovum by multiple spermatozoa. libido.

If this impregnates more than one ovum, they porocele The sclerotic thickening of the scrotum

will be fraternal twins. caused by herniation into the scrotal sac.

polystichia That congenital anomaly of extra porokeratosis A rare dermatitis.

rows of eyelashes. porosis The callus formation in healing bone

polystomatous The possession of orifices to fractures.

excess. porosity The presence of minute openings, as in

polysyndactyly Multiple webbing of the digits. a sponge.

polytocous A multiple birth. porotomy A surgical incision into the urinary

polytrophia Polytrophy — excessive nourish- meatus.

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porphyria Disorders of porphyrin metabolism. it lies.
acute intermittent porphyria That rare, inherit- dorsal recumbent position Supination of the
ed condition of excessive porphyrin excretion — upper body with flexion and outward rotation of
characterized by acute abdominal distress, the legs. Stirrups are often used.
excessive drug use, neurological disturbances, Elliott's position Supination of the patient with
photophobia. a kidney roll beneath his/her flanks.
congenital erythropoietic porphyria A rare, Fowler's position The "wave position" indicat-
inherited condition which may include hemolytic ed for patients with back conditions — in which
anemia, severe dermatitis, splenomegaly. both the head and knees are equally elevated
South African genetic porphyria Varigate por- half-way. Whenever the head is raised, it adds to
phyria — that form in which the skin has the patient's comfort to raise the knees as well.
exquisite fragility. Abdominal pain or neuropathy This should not be achieved by the use of pil-
lows beneath the knees.
may be noted. high Fowler's position The head of the bed is
porphyria hepatica That caused by altered liver fully elevated, and the knees partially bent.
genupectoral position The patient kneels with
metabolism following anemia, heavy metal poi- his/her chest resting on the bed/exam table,
soning, hepatitis — which mayencompass arms crossed above the head.
peripheral neuropathy, or psychiatric sympto- horizontal position The patient lies supine, on
matology. his/her back with feet extended.
porphyruria Porphyrinuria — urinary excretion jackknife position The supine patient's legs are
of excess porphyrin. held in flexion against the abdomen, with some
portacaval shunt Surgical union of the inferior elevation of the shoulders, to facilitate the inser-
vena cava and the portal vein. tion of a urethral sound.
portal An entrance. lithotomy position Dorsosacral position —
portal hypertension Pathologically elevated pres- supination of the patient with flexed hips and
sure within the portal vein, resulting from knees abducted, for proctological, gynecological
obstructed circulation, via the liver. Thesefragile procedures.
varices (varicose vessels) may rupture with the Noble's position That position in which the kid-
Valsalva maneuver. Treatment goals incorporate ney may be assessed— the erect patient leans
alleviation of portal hypertension, the prevention forward, bracing his/her weight against a
of organ damage, the prevention and treatment chair/wall.
of complications. Elimination of ammonia will obstetrical position English position — left lat-
protect against hepatic encephalopathy. eral recumbent position with the right hip and
positioning Assisted posturing of the patient by knee flexed. The position in which patients (pts)
the nursing staff. receive enemata.
Bonnet's position Abduction, flexion with out- orthograde position An anatomic posture in
ward rotation of the leg and foot which affords which the erect patient is standing with arms at
the patient relief from hip inflammation. This his/her sides, palms in supination.
posturing is pathognomonic of a fractured hip. orthopneic position The patient is propped up
Bozeman's position The patient is restrained to with 4 pillows, sitting erect in high Fowler's
supports which permit genucubital/knee-elbow position. S/he may sleep on a pillow on the
positioning on the examination table. overbed table (over the bed) to relieveacute
Brickner position Abduction, external rotation orthopnea.
and traction of the shoulder, which is achieved prone position Procumbent position, in which
by securing the patient's wrists to the head of the patient lies on his/her abdomen. This is the
the bed. safest positioning for the geriatric/obtunded
centric position That mandibular position of patient in full restraints. This position has been
choice — posterior to the maxilla. implicated in sudden infant deaths (SIDS).
decubitus position Each position in which the
body surface is adjacent to the surface on which

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Rose's position The patient is placed at the postclimacteric Postmenopausal.
head of the exam table with his/her head hyper- postconnubial Following marriage.
extended over the end. This gives the surgeon postencephalitis That abnormal stage which fol-
access to the upper mouth and throat, and
allows drainage. lows the acute phase of encephalitis.
semi-Fowler's position A relaxed Fowler's postfebrile The stage following a fever.
position. posthemiplegic chorea Involuntary movements
Simon's position Edebohls' position — the
supine patient has his/her legs/hips flexed and affecting partially paralyzed muscles.
elevated, with thighs tightly abducted, to facili- posthepatic That following hepatitis.
tate pelvic procedures. posthetomy Circumcision.
Sims' position Left lateral recumbent position, posthumous That infant delivered by Cesarean
obstetrical position, English position, lat-
erosemiprone position. The patient is placed on section following the mother's death. An infant
his/her extreme left side with the right knee and born following the father's demise. An accom-
hip tightly flexed, left arm behind the back. plishment recognizedafter one's death.
supine position Dorsal position — the patient posthypnotic suggestion The instruction(s) given
is lying on his/her back. a subject under hypnosis — which will influence
Trendelenburg position The patient is posi- his/her thoughts and/or responseswhen
aroused from the trance.
tioned in a dorsal 45° angle, head-dependent. postictal That within the postconvulsive,
Modern gurneys and hospital beds achieve this postepileptic phase. Following an attack, CVA.
position with one pedal (often red) — to treat posticteric That following jaundice, icterus.
cardiovascular shock STAT. postmaturity A neonate born postdue — whose
presentation (large infant with macerated skin)
unilateral recumbentposition The patient may confirms this status. The post-term infant of
be positioned on the right side for acute right greater than 42 weeks gestation.
pleurisy, hepatomegaly, right lobar pneumonia. postnatal Postpartum, following
S/he may be positioned on the left side for left parturition/childbirth.
lobar pneumonia, left pleurisy, massive pericar- postnecrotic That following tissue death.
dia! effusion. postocular neuritis Inflammation of the optic
positive Affirmative, definite, the presenceof nerve.
pathology, possessing a value greater than zero. postpaludal The period following a malarial
positron emission tomography PET is the most attack.
expensive and sophisticated of the functional postpartum Following childbirth, parturition.
imaging techniques. This modality requires sig- postpartum depression That neurotic reaction
nificant exposure to radiation. during the puerperium which could deteriorate
Possum The master control of mechanical into postpartum psychosis. Symptoms include
instruments — which can be controlled by a anhedonia (nothing brings pleasure),anxiety,
quadriplegic's respirations through a straw/bite despondency, disappointment over the infant,
stick extension. fatigue, fear of harming the baby, hopelessness,
postabsorptive state The 6-12 hour transition inability to cope, inadequacy, insomnia, irra-
stage following a meal. tional guilt, irritability, tearfulness, and/or wide
postapopletic Following apoplexy, acerebrovas- mood swings. The mother's responsesto her
cular accident (CVA). infant should be observed and documented
postcardiotomy The post-operative period imme- when appropriate, as well as psychiatric symp-
diately following open-heart surgery. tomatology.
postcaval Referring to the inferior/ascending postpartum hemorrhage That life-threatening
vena cava. complication following delivery which may
postcibal (PC) Following the meal(s). require surgery and transfusions. Fundal mas-
Postprandial. sage is essential.
postpartum psychosis This psychotic break with-

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in 6 months following delivery, may include the fever, splenomegaly, and/or urticaria may repre-

signs/symptoms of exaggerated death wishes, sent a transfusion reaction.

delusions regarding her infant, demands, depen- posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Following

dency, distortion of reality, mood lability, an extreme stress/violence, the patient's

suicidal ideation, psychomotor retardation, agi- response is horror, intense fear, and/or helpless-

tation, obsessive fantasies, marked anxiety, ness. This acute stress keeps replaying itself in

panic attacks, sleep deprivation, irrational guilt, the memory and vivid recall of this victim.

et al. (Some of these women will be so psychot- Symptoms of increased arousal, startling, and

ic, they will deny having been pregnant, or deliv- psychic numbing will prompt avoidance behav-

ering.) These psychotic patients may be at risk ior as well as withdrawal. Intrusive dreams of

of child endangerment, posing a dangerous risk this event, trauma-specific reenactment, intense

to herself and/or others. If she is experiencing psychiatric distress, and physiological reactivity

command hallucinations, infanticide could be a reoccur. The victim may perceive an abbreviated

possible tragedy. This psychosis could recur fol- future, constricted affectivity, estrangement,

lowing each of the target patient's pregnancies. diminished interest, memory deficit, as a high

A psychiatric referral is mandatory. level of anxiety remains. If other victims did not

postpericardiotomy syndrome A postoperative survive, survivor guilt may beexperienced.

reaction to surgical disruption of the myocardi- Increased arousal in the areas of insomnia, con-

um. Tamponade is usually not seen. Pericardial centration, hypervigilance, and exaggerated

effusion may require a pericardiectomy. startle response confirm the above findings.

postpoliomyelitis muscular atrophy (PPMA) The postural drainage That achieved by gravity —

appearance of neuromuscular weakness, years which clears the lungs of secretions. This is

following acute, paralytic polio. This progressive achieved by positioning prior to forceful cough-

atrophy may or may not affect the muscles ing.

which were involved earlier. The treatment is posture The positioning of one's body, an inten-

palliative and supportive. tional pose, or a conscious mental stance.

postpoliomyelitis syndrome This onset of new posturing A position/attitude.

symptoms — fasciculations (twitching), muscle coiled posturing The fetal position. That pre-

atrophy/weakness, myalgia, sleep apnea, et al., sent in cerebral, hepatic, intestinal pathology, as

may appear decades following maximal recov- well as in renal colic.

ery from acute paralytic poliomyelitis. An dorsal rigid posturing Contracted postioning

intrathecal immune response against the which may be noted in appendicitis, ascites,

poliovirus may be present in these patients. tympanites, peritonitis, meningitis, strychnine

There is no known treatment. toxicity, tetany — indicating acute distress.

postprandial After eating (PC). prone posturing That assumed with the dis-

postprandial hypotension A baroflex mechanism comfort of abdominal colic/pain, gastric ulcer,

in the geriatric patient with a history of syncope spinal tuberculosis, vertebral erosion.

postcibal. postviral fatigue syndrome Epidemic neu-

postpubescence Adolescence. romyasthenia, Iceland disease, myalgic

postscarlatinal Following scarlet fever. encephalomyelitis, Royal Free disease. The clas-

post-term pregnancy That exceeding 41 weeks. sic symptom is muscular fatigue, unimproved

Of primary concern are perinatal mortality (still- by rest. Other possible symptoms (sx) may indi-

birth/neonatal death within the hospital) and cate anxiety, blurred vision, deafness,depres-

neonatal morbidity. Apgar scores beneath 7 (at sion, diplopia, emotional lability, headache,

5 minutes of age), asphyxial encephalopathy, hyperacusis, insomnia, low-grade fever,

lethal congenital anomalies, maternal diabetes, lymphadenopathy, nuchal rigidity, urological

respiratory distress threaten these neonates. symptomatology.

post-transfusion syndrome A condition of abnor- potable Water which is safe to drink.

mal hepatic functioning, atypical lymphocytes, Potain's sign When the aorta is dilated, percus-

308

sion will elicit dullness over the sternum. characteristic facies (almond eyes, long face,

potassemia Excessivecirculatory potassium. narrow bifrontal diameter, small mouth with

Rapid intravenous infusion of potassium precip- corners turned down), feeding problems, genital

itates cardiac arrest! hypoplasia, hyperphagia, hypopigmentation,

potassium chloride (KCI) The agent used to treat mental retardation, infantile/neonatal hypotonia,

digitalis intoxication. obesity, short stature, small hands and feet.

potassium chromate poisoning Inhaled, ingest- This is the most common form of genetic obesi-

ed, or by topical contact, this poison may pro- ty.

duce abdominal cramping, diarrhea, kidney/liver praecox Early.

pathology, or decreased respirations. The induc- praevia Praevius, premature.

tion of vomiting is contraindicated. pragmatagnosia The failure to recognize once-

potassium hydroxide poisoning Hospitalization familiar objects.

is required for these patients who may present pragmatism The belief that only practicality

with abdominal cramping, burning oral pain, should be the determining factor of that princi-

hemorrhagic, tenacious emesis, prostration, ple.

shock, and/or a soapy taste. Induction of vomit- praxinoscope That instrument by which the lar-

ing is contraindicated. Tracheotomy will be ynx is examined.

required if the burns involve the airway. preanesthesia Prenarcosis, premedication — an

potency Force, power, strength, concentration. agent(s) given to facilitate the induction of an

potential That latent possibility. inhalation anesthetic.

demarcation potential A possible injury. preauricular That which is anterior to the ear(s).

potentiation The enhancement of an effect. precancerous A benign lesion which is at risk of

Pott's disease Tuberculous spondylitis, vertebral becoming malignant.

osteitis (which may be tuberculous). The pain is precava The descending/superior vena cava.

usually symmetrical. If spinal movement aggra- precipitation The abrupt delivery of an infant —

vates the pain, this is an indication of vertebral which may occur unattended and out of asepsis.

inflammation. These patients will avoid spinal The separation of a solid out of a suspension.

flexion and torsion. Traction affords relief. preclinical The care and status of a patient prior

Ambulation is with a shuffling gait, using furni- to establishment of the diagnosis.

ture for stability. Paralysis may occur. precocious Premature

Pott's fracture That of the medial malleolus of developmental/mental/sexual maturity.

the tibia and lower fibula. The therapy of choice precognition Premonition — that correct antici-

is reduction of the fracture(s), then casting. pation of an impending event. Premonitory

poverty of thought Those ideas voiced are patho- knowledge without a rational basis.

logically void of affect and substance — as may precordial blow Precordial thump — the initial

be noted in major depression. blow to the sternum delivered prior to cardiac

power Microscopy magnification (when the num- massage in ventricular tachycardia/cardiac

ber is followed by an X). Optical magnification. arrest. This (only one) blow may convert the

The speed at which work is accomplished. The arrhythymia.

capacity for action, strength. precostal Anterior to the ribs.

practice A health care professional's art, exper- precursor That which precedes.

tise, and increasing knowledge in the preven- prediabetes Those factors indicating the patient

tion, diagnosis and treatment of pathology. is at risk for clinical diabetes mellitus — morbid

practitioner A nurse, physician, or other health obesity, delivery of an infant greater than 9

care worker who has met (and continues to pounds, et al.

meet) the legal and professional requirements of prediction rules Probability factors which rule

the state of employment. out (R0)/establish diagnoses.

Prader-Willi syndrome That chromosomal aber- predisposition The potential to develop patholo-

ration which includes behavioral problems, gy due to specific environmental factors.

309

predormition The stage immediately preceding mesenteric pregnancy A tuboligamentary preg-

sleep. nancy which occurs both in the broad ligament

preeclampsia That prelude to eclampsia (tox- and in the fallopian tube.

emia of pregnancy) — which is characterized by multiple pregnancy Heterotropic pregnancy —

edema, proteinuria, hypertension. The earlier the that in which more than one fetus is present in

onset, the greater the probability the preeclamp- the uterus.

sia is secondary to chronic hypertension and/or phantom pregnancy False pregnancy, pseudo-

renal pathology. Associated with severe/lethal cyesis, pseudopregnancy — experiencing the

complications, both the mother and fetus are at symptomatology of pregnancy in a non-gravid

risk. This can rapidly progress to life-threaten- woman. Sometimes, this condition may reveal

ing eclampsia evidenced by convulsions and the psychiatric features.

HELLP syndrome: H (hemolysis); EL (elevated tuboabdominal pregnancy Development of the

liver enzymes); LP(low platelet count), which embryo both within the abdomen and the fallop-

requires prompt induction of labor. Epidural ian tube.

analgesia is that of choice. Eclamptic sympto- tubo-ovarian pregnancy Development of the

matology resolves by the second postpartum nonviable embryo in both the ovary and its fal-

day. lopian tube.

prefrontal lobotomy Leukotomy — sectioning of uteroabdominal pregnancy That development

the frontal lobe of the brain. Performed in of twins — one in utero, and one in the

patients with intractable violent states (for abdomen (at great risk).

whom all other methods of intervention have prehallux A supernumerary bone in the foot.

failed), this procedure has fallen into increasing prehensile Those functions of a hand with an

disuse, due to advanced psychopharmacology. opposing thumb — pinching, encircling, grasp-

pregnancy That 280-day period of amenorrhea ing, et al.

and changes in body systems prior to the deliv- preictal That aura and/or period prior to a

ery of an infant(s). Intelligent prenatal care pre- seizure.

vents/lightens most complications. Pregnant preicteric In hepatic pathology, that period prior

women with obesity are more likely to have to the development of jaundice.

complications (such as diabetes mellitus and preimplantation genetic diagnosis For the older

hypertension) even after holding down their mother who has delivered non-viable males with

weight gain to the recommended maximum of sex-linked diagnoses (who have expired) — this

15lbs. testing of a cell from the patient's second mitot-

ampullar pregnancy That which occurs within ic phase will guide genetic counseling earlier

the fallopian tube, constituting a surgical emer- than was previously possible.

gency. The embryo/fetus will not survive. preinvasive Carcinoma which has not yet metas-

bigeminal pregnancy Twin gestation. tasized.

cervical pregnancy That occurring with Preiser's disease Traumatic osteoporosis involv-

implantation of the embryo into a tumor of ing the scaphoid.

mixed tissues. prelukemia Those nondiagnostic signs and

ectopic pregnancy Abdominal pregnancy, tubal symptoms of anemia, lymphopenia, neutrope-

pregnancy, extrauterine pregnancy — in which nia, monocytosis, purpura, slow-healing lesions.

the zygote develops outside the uterus. This diagnosis (dx) is made retrospectively.

hydatid pregnancy That state in which a tumor premaniacal Signs/symptoms preceding the

develops from degenerated tissue. exacerbation of a clinical episode of mania —

interstitial pregnancy Mural pregnancy — that an irritable, expansive mood, grandiosity, a

which develops in the wall of the uterus. decreased need for food/sleep, sexual/financial

membraneous pregnancy That fetus which excesses, et al.

exists within a ruptured amniotic sac, resting at premature That which comes before its time.

the uterine wall. premature heart beat Extrasystole — a cardiac

310

contraction which precedesthe normal beat. presbyacusia Presbyacousia, presbycusis, pres-
premature ejaculation That occurring prior to bykousis — progressive loss of hearing as the
patient (pt) ages.
coitus. (This is not an accurate term.)
premature labor Uterine contractions prior to 37 presbyatrics Geriatrics, presbyatry, presbyti-
atrics.
weeks' gestation. Neonatal intensive care needs
to be on stand by. presbycardia Decreased/diseased cardiac func-
prematurity The fetus of interrupted gestation, tioning due to advancing age.
born prior to 37 weeks, weighing less than 5
pounds (2,500 grams), with evidence of incom- presbyopia Farsightedness in the geriatric popu-
plete development. The leading cause of neona- lation, which appears in middle age.
tal mortality is prematurity — which is seen in
congenital anomalies, hematological dyscrasias, prescription "Script" — verbal, written, or
infections, intracranial hemorrhage, pulmonary
ventilation problems. These infants should be in phoned orders of a physician/authorized RN,
an intensive environment, shielded from heat designating the drug, amount, times, and dura-
loss. tion, as well as form.
premenarchal Preceding establishment of the "shotgun" prescription The indiscriminate
menses. order for multiple drugs in the anticipation that
premenstrual tension syndrome Anxiety, at least one agent will turn out to beeffective.
headache, retention of fluid, mammary hyper- presenium That period immediately prior to the
trophy/tenderness. Edema may be noted prior to onset of senility.
the establishment of catamenia. presentation The pelvic lie of the fetus within the
premonitory A warning sign/symptomatology. the uterus. The initial appearance of a patient to
premorbid In reference to the patient's history — the physician.
that period preceding the development of the pressure (P) Compression, force, stress, ten-
condition under consideration. The patient's sta- sion, weight, traction.
tus prior to the current illness. after-pressure The sensation of weight which
prenares Nostrils. remains after the stimulus has been removed.
prenatal care Antenatal care — the intrauterine arterial pressure That force within the arteries
diagnosis of pregnancy and diagnosis (dx) of which varies widely, according to health and
fetal pathology by amniocentesis, fetoscopy, psychiatric parameters.
ultrasound, et al. Routine obstetrical follow-up back pressure The reduced ventricular return
and care of problems through delivery. to the heart with venous engorgement.
preoperative care Patient teaching before blood pressure (BP) Force exerted against the
surgery about the proposed operation and of vessel, by the blood.
techniques s/he will need to perform postopera- central venouspressure That within the right
tively. Instructions to the patient and staff atrium. This invasive determination is made by
regarding preparation for the operating room cardiac catheterization.
and the operative procedure. cerebrospinal pressure Varying tension within
prepatent period That during which the organ- the spinal column.
ism has entered the body, but has not yet diastolic pressure The arterial force which
become manifest. occurs during dilation of the cardiac chambers.
prepotent The likelihood of one parent transmit- endocardiac pressure Strength of circulation
ting inherited characteristics to his/her child. within the heart.
preprandial Before a meal. hydrostatic pressure That force exerted within
prepubescence The period immediately preced- a closed system by water/fluid.
ing puberty. intra-abdominal pressure Diaphragmatic pres-
preputiotomy Treatment of phimosis by incision sure exerted upon the abdomen.
of the penal prepuce. intracranial pressure The force exerted by the
cerebrospinal fluid within the subarachnoid
space.
intraocular pressure Normal tension —12-21

311

mm Hg per tenometer. prevertebral ganglia Collateral ganglia.
prevertiginous Possessing the tendency to fall
intrathoracic pressure That within the chest.
intraventricular pressure Ventricular tension forward.
during systole/diastole. prevesical That which is anterior to the bladder.
negative pressure A force below that of atmos- previable The premature fetus which will not
pheric pressure.
positive pressure That above atmospheric survive outside the uterus without medical inter-
pressure. vention.
pulse pressure The variance between the dias- priapism Mentulagra — a recurrent, painful,
tolic and systolic blood pressure (BP) readings, sustained and abnormal erection which is void
when the diastolic P is subtracted from the sys- of libido. Sometimes reflexive, this condition
tolic P. may be seen in patients with homozygous sickle
systolic pressure The arterial measurement cell disease, or acute leukemia. These humiliat-
during the ventricular systole. ed patients must not be treated with levity.
wedge pressure Indirect measurement of the Hospitalization/surgery may be indicated.
power within the left auricle. priapitis Inflammation of the penis.
press(ure) of speech A symptom of mania — primary Principal, first.
pathological rush of speech with compromised primary care Fundamental nursing provided
thought and judgment, often with increased vol- early in outpatient illness. Therapy, prevention,
ume and emotion. and referral may be implemented.
pressure paralysis Paresis caused by spinal primary hemorrhage Bleeding which occurs
cord/nerve injury. upon injury.
pressure points Those sites which will help to primary lesion That of syphilitic etiology. An
control hemorrhage whencompressed. original lesion which may give rise to
pressure sore Decubitus ulceration of the skin another/many/metastasis.
and deeper tissues, which develops from immo- primary nursing Management and coordination
bilization. There are many logical nursing mea- of a patient's hospitalization (or outpatient ser-
sures which will prevent serious decubiti — but vices) by the same (primary) nurse — who is
only if employed diligently and systematically. often one of the caregivers.
presystole Perisystole — the interval prior to primary physician The patient's general practi-
cardiac contraction. tioner. If specialists come onto the case, the pri-
preterm The premature fetus which delivers prior mary physician will continue to care for his/her
to the 37th gestational week, and may be at patient, as part of the treatment team.
high risk for survival with/without anomalies. primary pulmonaryhypertension (PPH) A rare
pretibial fever Fort Bragg fever — leptospirosis condition in which the blood pressure constricts
characterized by dermatitis, fever, prostration, the pulmonary artery, causing dyspnea and car-
respiratory problems, splenomegaly. diac fatigue leading to cardiac arrest.
preurethritis Inflammation encompassing the Chemotherapy is experimental, and appetite
urethral orifice of the vaginal vestibule. depressants have been implicated.
prevalence The incidence of a specific disease in primigravida A woman in her first pregnancy.
a given population and time. primipara The woman who is delivering/has
preventative A prophylactic measure. delivered her first infant of greater than 20
primary preventative medicine Promotion of weeks gestation — regardless of viability.
immunization without follow-up maintenance of primitive Embryonic, original.
health. Primum non nocere "First, do no harm." —
secondary preventativemedicine Prompt from the Hippocratic Oath, to which all physi-
diagnosis and care. cians subscribe.
tertiary preventative medicine Limitation of princeps Chief, original, principal.
disability by rehabilitation. principle The philosophy behind an established
protocol.

312

Tlhe Responsibility of the physician is to
PRevenc, ro diagnose, to PRognosscicate, to
TRear when And if necessary, And always

to keep FoRemosc in mind

PRimim non noceRC .

B.F. AndRews. M.O..

From The Social Responsibility of the Physician, 1965

antianemic principle The hepatic factor which to be left alone.) It is to be remembered that the
is required for erythropoesis in bone marrow. patient's chart is a source of privileged commu-
This antianemic factor is utilized in the therapy nication, as well as the spoken word.
of pernicious anemia. proband The affected family member who is the
antidiuretic principle ADH (antidiuretichor- representative subject for study/research. The
mone) originates in the pituitary gland. propositus.
Gl principles Gastrointestinal processes — probate The act of confirming that a will is
those substances secreted by the authentic and in order.
stomach/intestines — which enter the circula- probe An instrument used to explorethe direc-
tion as hormones. tion of a sinus/wound. A thorough investigation.
oxytoxic principle A hypophyseal hormone problem-oriented medical record (POMR)
which stimulates uterine contractions. Charting by clear identification of the patient's
reality principle Psychoanalytic striving for problems in the order of their significance. A
pleasure which is balanced by life events. comprehensive treatment plan is included. The
Prinzmetal's angina This variant, anginal chest patient's progress is documented regularly.
pain is experienced at rest. procatarctic Inciting, predisposing to pathology.
prison psychosis Emotional, psychotic respons- procedure A protocol — the established,
es generated by actual/impending incarceration. approved method.
privileged communication All confidential men- process Processus— that series of stages lead-
tion of the patient and minister, attorney, nurse, ing to the achievement of positive/negative
and/or physician. That which is inadvertently results. Tissue progression.A plan of action.
revealed by a patient recovering from anesthe- procreation Reproduction by conception/parturi-
sia. Information about suicidal and/or homocidal tion.
intent is exempt from confidentiality, and must proctagra Spasms of the rectum.
be revealedto the physician! (This patient is not proctatresia Congenital imperforate anus (which

313

must be surgically revised promptly). comes of patients/family members experiencing
proctenclisis An anal stricture. a fractured therapeutic alliance with a profes-
procteurynter That surgical instrument used to sional(S) on the case.
profluvium An excessive discharge.
dilate a constricted anus. profluvium lactis Excessive lactation.
proctitis Rectitis — rectal/anal inflammation. profondometer During fluoroscopy, that device
used to locate a foreign body.
diphtheritic proctitis Proctalgia, headache profound hypothermia Suspended animation
accompanied by tinnitus, bloating with disten- (which may be lifesaving).
tion, neurasthenia. profundus Deep-seated emotions, blood vessels,
dysenteric proctitis That resulting from diar- foreign bodies, etc.
rhea. progenitor An ancestor.
traumatic proctitis Chronic constipation and progeny Children, offspring.
pain lead to rectal irritability with pain. progeria Hutchinson-Gilford disease — that
proctocele Rectocele — invagination of the rec- pediatric condition of premature senility. These
tal mucosa(e) into the vagina. critical patients remain petite with extremely
proctocolitis Rectocolitis — inflammation of the senile skin, scanty hair, infantile genitalia. The
colon, involving the rectum. prognosis is poor.
proctocolonoscopy Endoscopy of the lower progestational agent Progestin — that synthetic
intestine. hormone prominent in oral contraceptives
proctoplasty Rectoplasty — anal plastic surgery. (OCs).
proctoplegia Proctoparalysis — paresis of the prognathism That projection of the jaw(s)
anal sphincter. beyond that of the forehead.
proctoptosis Rectal prolapse. prognosis A prediction of the outcome of a con-
proctorrhagia Rectal hemorrhage. dition or disease, positive or negative.
proctorrhaphy Rectorrhaphy — anal suturing. progression That forward movement, advance-
proctoscope That endoscope which permits a ment.
survey of the rectum. progressive The advancement of a disease/con-
proctosigmoidectomy Surgical excision of the dition through its stages.
sigmoid rectum. progressive muscular atrophy Wasting atrophy
proctosigmoiditis Inflammation of the sigmoid — that gradually advancing muscular deteriora-
rectum. tion caused by degeneration of the spinal cord.
proctosigmoidoscopy An endoscopic examina- progressive ossifying myositis The formation of
tion of the sigmoid bowel and rectum. bony deposits in muscle inflammatory states.
proctostomy That surgical development of a per- progressive resistive exercise (PRE) That pro-
manent rectal opening to relieve stricture. gram which increases in resistance, in order to
proctotresia Proctotoreusis — the surgical cor- assist the patient to achieve maximum strength.
rection of imperforation of the anus. prolapse Prolapsus — the dropping of an organ
procumbent Prone. or body part.
procursive Involuntarily propelled forward with a anal prolapse The telescoping of the colon
running gait. through the rectum. Rectal prolapse.
prodromal The earliest stage(s) of a disease. umbilical cord prolapse An obstetrical emer-
proencephalus That fetus whose brain herniates gency which places the fetus at risk. All manipu-
through a fissure in the frontal skull. lation of the infant, cord, presenting part is
professionalism Conscientious observance of strictly contraindicated.
the ethics, techniques, and knowledge of a sci- uterine prolapse Evangination of the uterus
entific discipline. Dignity which reassures those through the vagina.
in need, that their situation will be managed prolapse of the iris Protrusion of the iris
conscientiously and responsibly. through a laceration in the cornea.
professional liability That risk of damages being
claimed against staff involved with poor out-

314

proliferation Overwhelming reproduction of which are vital to life.

bacilli, etc. prostalgia Prostatic discomfort.

proliferative inflammation The hyperplastic prostatectomy Total/partial excision of the

reaction to injury/infection. prostate by a perineal/suprapubic/transurethral

prolific Fertile, highly reproductive. approach. Sexual impotence may be a postoper-

prominence Protrusion, projection. ative side effects.

pronation Turning palm-downward the out- prostathelcosis Prostatic ulceration.

stretched hand. Positioning the patient to lie on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) The screening

his/her abdomen. tool of choice for prostatic carcinoma(CA).

pronator syndrome That neurological entrapment Ejaculation within 48° (hours) may risk afalse

of the median nerve of the elbow. Pain, impaired positive — which will be followed by prostatic

coordination, paralysis, paresthesiamay biopsy.

respond to corticosteroid injections. prostatic syncope Loss of consciousness during

prootic Anterior to the ear(s). examination of the prostate gland.

propagative Participating in reproduction. prostatism Any prostatic condition — benign

prophylax To actively prevent disease. hypertrophy, carcinoma, nodular hyperplasia,

prophylaxis That regimen/agent which prevents prostatitis — which obstructs voiding and caus-

disease. es urinary retention.

proprioception The awareness of one's own prostatitis Inflammation of the prostate gland.

equilibrium, movement, position, posture, resis- acute prostatitis Marked by constipation, fre-

tance, weight, within the environment. quency of voiding with/without urinary reten-

proptometer That instrument which measures tion, fever, marked malaise, nausea with emesis,

exophthalmos. perineal pain, rigor.

proptosis Downward displacement. chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) That inflam-

propulsion Momentum. mation caused by longstanding bacterial infec-

pro re nata (PRN) As necessary/needed. tion. These men may present with relatively mild

prosody Normal speech articulation, melody, symptomatology.

rhythm, inflection. chronic prostatitis Perineal discomfort with

prosopagnosia That inability to recognizefaces penile discharge.

— others' or one's own. prostatocystitis Inflammation of the prostatic

prosopalgia Neuralgia of the tngemmal urethra and urinary bladder.

nerve/branches. Tic douloureux, prosopodynia, prostatodynia Prostatalgia — signs/symptoms

prosoponeuralgia. of prostatitis in the absenceof inflammation.

prosopectasia Pathologic enlargement of the When the urine cultures are negative in these

face. patients, antibiotics are not indicated.

prosopoanoschisis The oblique facial cleft which prostatomegaly Prostatic hypertrophy.

extends from the eye to the mouth. prostatotomy Prostatomy — an incision into the

prosopodiplegia Bilateral facial paralysis. prostate gland.

prosopoplegia Pacioplegia — facial prostatovesiculectomy That surgical excision of

paresis/paralysis. the prostate, seminalvesicles.

prosoposchisis A congenital facial cleft. prosternation Camptocormia — flexion deformi-

prosopospasm Spasms of the face. ty of the spine in the erect patient.

prosopothoracopagus Conjoined twins which are prosthesis An artificial limb, organ, or other part

fused between the chest and frontal face. of the body.

prosopotia Facial presentation at birth. dental prosthesis Dentures.

prosopus varus That unilateral atrophy of the maxillofacial prosthesis Restoration of the

head which causes congenital, facial obliquity. jaw(s) and/or face, due to congenital anomaly,

prostaglandins (PGs) Autocoids (not hormones) injury, or disease. Elaboratework may conceal

which affect physiological actions — many of major defects of much of the face. Some are

315

supported by glasses (whether glasses are pre- proteinuria Albuminuria, proteuria.
orthostatic proteinuria Postural albuminuria —
scribed or not). albumin which becomes evident in the urine,
penile prosthesis That which enables the but only when the patient is erect.
impotent male to achieve an erection.
prosthetoclerokeratoplasty Surgical replacement proteolysis The enzymatic hydrolysis of proteins.
of a transparent prosthesis for diseased proteometabolism Proteopepsis — absorption,
corneal/scleral tissue.
prostitution That illicit practice of soliciting assimilation, digestion of protein.
coitus for hire. This represents a prominent prothrombin That clotting factor which produces
cause of sexually transmittable disease (STD).
prostration Absolute exhaustion, depletion. thrombin within the circulation.
heat prostration That caused by an excessively prothrombin time PT time — a test to determine
hot environment.
nervous prostration Neurasthenia — neural the effect of anticoagulant medications.
and somatic depletion. protocol A specific, ordered progression of
protanopia Color blindness in the perception of
red. steps.
protective isolation Reverse isolation. The use of protospasm A progressive cramping.
isolation technique and equipment to protect the prototype The original species, from which future
precarious (usually immunocompromised)
patient at risk for opportunistic infection. organisms evolve.
protein Large molecules derived from amino protractor The surgical instrument which
acids — essential for growth and tissue repair.
A source of energy and body heat. extracts foreign bodies from wounds.
complete proteins Those providing all of the protrude Extension/protrusion beyond a
essential amino acids.
immune proteins Immunoglobulins. limit/border.
protein-calorie malnutrition That seen in mal- protrusion That which is projected or thrust for-
nourished infants/children whose diets are defi-
cient in calories/protein. Infestation and/or ward.
infection may be contributing factors or an out- protuberance An eminence, projection, promi-
come.
protein-losing enteropathy Ulceration of the nence, protuberantia.
intestinal mucosae may be extensive enough to provisional That which is conditional, temporary,
lead to this abnormal gastrointestinal loss of
protein. while awaiting final decisions.
proteinosis A rare, inherited metabolic disorder proximal Central, proximalis, nearest, point of
producing nodules on the epiglottis, vocal
cords, and/or face, due to retained lipid proteins reference.
in the tissues. Lipid proteinosis. proximal focal femoral deficiency A congenially
protein sensitivity This can cause a severe to
life-threatening reaction because of anaphylaxis. underdeveloped thigh. Amputation may be
protein sparing modified diet Designed for required to facilitate ambulation.
those who are more than 30% over ideal body proximate The closest in regard to time, space,
weight, this program incorporates change of life sequence.
style, an educational emphasis, protein supple- proximate cause That without which an incident
ments, requiring physician visits. Neither cho- in question would not have happened.
lesterol nor fat are permitted. Exercise is prurigo A chronic, highly pruritic dermatitis
mandatory. which may be lifelong.
Hebra's prurigo That with mild involvement.
pregnancy prurigo A mild form seen in preg-
nant women, which improves upon delivery.
prurigo agria That severe pediatric involvement
which may chronically abscess.
prurigo estivalis That photodermatitis which
recurs in hot weather.
prurigo nodularis Of unknown etiology, these
pruritic nodules are seen among geriatric
women.
pruritogenic That which causes itching.
pruritus Itching — a primary or secondary

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symptom. the site of a non-united fracture.

essential pruritus Itching without a lesion. pseudoasthma "All that wheezes is not asthma."

persistent pruritus That which may occur with pseudoataxia A disordered (intoxicated) gait

or without dermatitis, as an early sign of blood which does not originate in the cerebellum. This

dyscrasia, diabetes, hepatopathology, Hodgkin's may appear as a drug (or alcohol) side effect.

disease, uropathy, et al. pseudoblepsia Pseudoblepsis, parablepsia —

symptomatic pruritus Itching which is sympto- false, fantasized, imaginary vision in the blind.

matic of another condition. pseudobulbar paralysis That resembling bulbar

pruritus estivalis Heat rash. paralysis caused by cortical lesions.

pruritus hiemalis That aggravated by cold pseudocartilagenous That which resembles car-

weather. tilage but is not.

pruritus senilis That which is caused by the pseudocast Urinary sediment which is a false

degenerative changes in geriatrics. cast.

pruritus vulvae A sign of vaginitis or diabetes in pseudochancre That lesion which imitates a

the female patient. syphilitic lesion.

psammous Gritty, sandy. pseudocholesteatoma In chronic otitis media,

pselaphesia Carphology, pselaphesis — a tactile that epithelial mass found in the tympanic cavi-

sensation. Delirious picking at the bedclothes. ty.

psellism Psellismus — a speech impediment pseudochorea Bizarre, choreic movements

affecting the pronunciation, such as stammer- which are not true chorea, but may be hysterical

ing, stuttering, et al. in origin.

psellism mercurialis In mercury toxicity, the pseudochromesthesia Visual coloration induced

tremulous speech may be rushed, uneven, unin- by sound.

telligible. pseudocirrhosis Hepatic obstruction which pre-

pseudacousma Pseudacusis — distorted hearing sents with symptoms of cirrhosis. Constrictive

in which sounds are imagined, or heard in dis- pericarditis may cause this false condition.

tortion. pseudocoma That locked-in syndrome in which

pseudencephalus That congenital deformity patients may awaken from coma caused by

which includes a non-united (open) cranium hemorrhage/infarction of the pons, unable to

with undifferentiated vascular tissue. communicate. While movement and speech

pseudoacephalus The conjoined, less viable twin remain absent, the patient is visually able to

which has a congenital, rudimentary cranium, indicate response to others' interaction.

incompatible with life. pseudocoxalgia Legg-Calve-Perthes' disease —

pseudoagraphia Pseudagraphia — that in which pediatric osteochondrosis (sterile necrosis) of

the patient is able to copy, but cannot write the head of the femur(s).

independently. pseudocroup Laryngismus stridulus — false

pseudoalbinism Pigmentary absence as in vitili- croup.

go, leukopathia. pseudocyesis Pseudopregnancy, phantom preg-

pseudoanemia Symptoms (sx) of anemia with- nancy, false pregnancy — seen in women anx-

out hematologic findings. ious to become pregnant/to avoid pregnancy.

pseudoaneurysm That tortuous dilatation of a Most signs/symptoms of pregnancy are present

vessel which resembles an aneurysm. with the exception of a gravid uterus. Men may

pseudoangina Functional chest complaints with- also present with this condition.

out .cardiopathy. pseudodementia Deterioration of mentality due

pseudoankylosis A false joint. to depression. Secondary to the primary mood

pseudoapoplexy Parapoplexy — a mild disorder disorder, this cognitive impairment will remit as

which imitates apoplexy without cerebral hem- the depression is treated. The emotional symp-

orrhage. toms may be masked by a patient's severe

pseudoarthrosis A false joint which may occur at objective/subjective evidence of cognitive

317

impairment. Characteristics of this mental dis- pseudo-pseudohypoparathyroidism That form
turbance include an acute onset, history of in which only the clinical (no biochemical)
mood disorder, inappropriate cognition. changes are present.
pseudoesthesia Phantom image, pseudoesthe- pseudoicterus Pseudojaundice — false jaundice.
sia, paraphia. A false or fantasized tactile sensa- pseudologia Spoken/written fabrication/false-
tion. That feeling which has not been derived hood.
from the environment. pseudologia fantastica Psychopathic, pathologi-
pseudofracture The zone of decalcification which cal falsification of a known truth.
may be seen in osteomalacia. pseudomania That psychotic state in which the
pseudogeusesthesia The sensation of taste as patient falsely accuses him-/herself of a
stimulated by another sense. crime(s) which s/he did not commit, and/or
pseudogeusia That subjective taste sensation remembers that which never occurred.
which has not been stimulated by external stim- pseudomembranous inflammation That due to a
uli. toxin which necrotizes tissue.
pseudoglioma Iridochoroiditis which causes pseudomembranous colitis Inflammation of the
inflammatory changes within the vitreous body bowel, caused by overwhelming antibiotic thera-
— mimicking retinal glioma. py. Since this may be life-threatening, a change
pseudogout Chondrocalcinosis — recurrent of antibiotic is required.
arthritis which clinically resembles gout. In con- pseudomeningitis Symptoms of meningeal irri-
trast to gout which commonly affects small tation without the characteristic lesions.
joints, Chondrocalcinosis usually involves the pseudomenstruation Uterine hemorrhage unac-
knee. companied by endometrial changes.
pseudogynecomastia Hyperadiposity in the male pseudomyopia That habit of holding objects
breast. This lacks glandular involvement. close to the eyes — in the absence of nearsight-
pseudohematuria Red coloring in the urine edness.
which is not blood. pseudomyxoma The peritoneal tumor which
pseudohemoptysis That expectoration of blood holds a viscous fluid and resembles a myxoma
which does not arise from the respiratory sys- (a connective tissue tumor).
tem. pseudomyxoma peritonei That peritoneal tumor
pseudohermaphroditism Hermaphroditism, false which develops from implantation metastases or
hermaphroditism — the congenital anomaly in carcinomatous cells which have
which the infant posesses the genitalia of one ruptured/escaped during surgery.
sex and the gonads of the opposite sex (or of pseudoneoplasm A phantom tumor.
both). Ambiguous genitalia at birth presents an pseudoneuritis Blurring/reddening of the optic
emotional concern requiring testing, early major disk as appears in optic neuritis.
decisions, and counselling. pseudoneuroma An amputation/traumatic tumor
pseudohernia That scrota! inflammation which of nerve fibers which is a false neuroma.
mimics herniation. pseudoparaplegia Subjective inability to use the
pseudohypertrophy Increase in an organ/struc- legs — in the presence of intact reflexes.
ture caused by tissue hyperplasia rather than pseudoparesis Hysterical paralysis.
parenchymal edema. Functioning may be com- pseudopelade Alopecia (balding) of unknown
promised. etiology.
pseudohypoparathyroidism That inherited condi- pseudopolyposis Multiple, false colonic polyps
tion due to inadequate parathyroid response, caused by chronic inflammation.
rather than deficient hormone. These patients pseudopsia Pseudoblepsis — false perceptions
may present with cataracts, strabismus, cushin- and/or visual hallucinations.
goid appearance, mental deficiency, "moon- pseudopterygium A conjunctiva! scar which is
face", obesity, short stature, convulsions, stri- attached to underlying tissue.
dor. pseudoptosis Apparent lid lag.

318

pseudorickets Renal rickets. mucosa, secondary to psoriasis. Psoriasis buc-

pseudosclerosis Symptoms of multiple sclerosis calis.

without the lesions. psoriasis universalis Severe, generalized

Westphal-Striimpell pseudosclerosis involvement.

Hepatolenticular degeneration. psorophthalmia Bilateral eyelid infection, compli-

pseudosmia That perverted sensation of smell cated by ulceration.

— an olfactory hallucination. psychalgia Phrenalgia — visual/auditory halluci-

pseudotetanus Muscular contractions which nations associated with melancholia. The psy-

mimic tetanus. chic pain is of hysterical etiology.

pseudotruncus arteriosus The most severe form psychanopsia Psychic blindness — that misper-

of pediatric tetralogy of Fallot. ception of one's visual stimuli.

pseudotuberculosis Those conditions which psychauditory Reference to the perception/inter-

resemble tuberculosis but are not caused by pretation of sounds.

acid fast bacilli. psyche One's mind, self, and soul.

pseudotumor cerebri Benign intracranial hyper- psychedelic Hallucinogenic mind intoxicants

tension. If tumors, ventricular obstruction, (illegal in the USA).

intracranial infection, and vascular hypertensive psychiatry That specialization of medicine which

encephalopathy can be ruled out, an uneventual covers the etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and

recovery can be anticipated. prevention of mental illness/disorders.

pseudotympany Abdominal distention with flat- psychic energy That mental/emotional impetus

tening of the diaphragmatic arch and increased which enables one to act and create. (A pro-

respirations. This nervous syndrome disappears foundly depressed patient may lack the psychic

with the induction of anesthesia. energy to suicide, until treatment causes the

pseudoxanthoma elasticum Chronic,degenera- depression to lift. It is in this phase that s/he

tive cutaneous disease marked by angioid may become brighter with concealed plans for

streaking of the retina(e), arterial degeneration, the future — to end his/her life.) Vigilance must

hypertension, loose dermal stretching with yel- continue!

low patches. psychic numbing Emotional anesthesia.

psi phenomenon That which is without logical Diminishedresponsiveness.

explanation — such as clairvoyance, extrasen- psychoanalysis An intensive survey of the

sory perception, mental telepathy, precognition, patient and his/her subconscious/conscious

psychokinesis. conflicts — as well as the interpretation, et al.

psittacosis Orthinosis, parrot fever — an infec- psychobabble "Pop psychology" (snappy phras-

tious disease causing constipation, epistaxis, es), intended as therapy by an unqualified but

headache, nausea, pulmonary complications, well-meaning helper (or opportunist). This

rigor. The transmission is from birds to man. becomes risky when the psychiatric person is

psomophagia The swallowing of half-masticated deluded into avoiding legitimate oversight by a

food. physician.

psoriasis Desquamating, erythematous, pruritic psychocatharsis That psychotherapy in which

dermatitis — which may be lifelong. insight is obtained into the patient's disturbance

Chemotherapy may be prescribed for exacerba- per hypnosis, sodium amytal interview, et al., to

tions resistant to more conservative measures. enable the patient to work through suppressed,

Ultra-violet light, a regimen of choice, is con- traumatic events.

traindicated for patients with a history of carci- psychodrama Group psychotherapy, in which

noma of the skin. insight is obtained through the acting out of

psoriasis annularis The lesions are round. conflicting situations, with patient peers.

psoriasis arthropica Psoriatic arthropathy — psychodynamics The role of subconscious moti-

psoriasis complicated by arthritis. vation behind human behavior.

psoriasis leukoplakia White areas of oral psychokinesis Maniacal behavior caused by poor

319

impulse control and/or defective inhibition. mentation. The patient's reality testing usually
psycholagny Libido stimulated by psychic remains intact.
anxiety reaction psychoneurosis Inappropriate
imagery. apprehension.
psycholepsy Paralepsy with attacks of hopeless- conversion reaction psychoneurosis
Unacceptable, unconscious impulses converted
ness/psychiatric inertia, often accompanied by into somatic symptoms. These patients may
wide mood swings. present as hysterics.
psychology A survey of normal/abnormal behav- depressive reaction psychoneurosis Out of
ior and mentation. proportion to environmental stressors, the
abnormal psychology The dynamics of devia- depth of depression suggests an endogenous,
tional thinking/behavior. chemical, major depression.
applied psychology The application of psycho- dissociated reaction psychoneurosis That
logical principles to other nursing disciplines, et characterized by amnesia, dream states, fugue
al. states, sleep walking. Psychosis must be ruled
clinical psychology Diagnosis and treatment of out.
psychiatric illness/disorders. obsessive-compulsive disorder/psychoneuro-
dynamic psychology Those motives behind sis Ritualistic, repetitive impulses to perform
actions/thoughts. acts/rituals. The patient may resent the compul-
experimental psychology A study which is sion, but finds the anxiety mounts until s/he
governed by a protocol of psychiatric yields to the impulse.
research/testing. phobic reaction psychoneurosis An irrational
forensic psychology That branchconcerned fear.
with criminal/illegal behavior/conduct. psychopath A patient who exhibits a psychopath-
genetic psychology Research into psychologi- ic disorder, acting out against society.
cal characteristics and evolution. psychopathology Psychopathy — the study of
individual psychology The concept that one behavior disorders and psychiatric diseases.
has 3 goals — social integration, sexual satis- psychopharmacology That science related to the
faction, and physical security. effect of medications on emotional/psychiatric
physiologic psychology The relationship of disorders.
organic systems to behavior. psychoplegic An agent which subdues mental
social psychology That study of groups' influ- excitability.
ence on one's actions and mentation. psychorrhea An incoherrent flood of
psychotomimetic That which imitates psychosis. bizarre/vague material.
psychometry Measurement of psychological vari- psychosensory Those sensations which do not
ables — aptitude, behavior, emotions, intelli- arise from organs.
gence. psychosexual Those emotional features of the
psychomotor The relationship of mental process- sexual drive.
es to physical functioning. psychosis That inability to comprehend the
psychomotor agitation That escalation of mood nature/quality of one's acts. Disorganized behiv-
and impetus beyond the patient's appropriate ior may encompass loss of contact with reality,
level. Agitated patients pose a greater risk for personality disintegration, psychogenicfeatures
acting out/suiciding. rather than organic/structural/physical etiology,
and/or hallucinations. Hospitalization may be
psychomotor epilepsy Temporal lobe epilepsy. required to protect the patient/others from
psychomotor retardation That generalized effect harm.
alcoholic psychosis Korsakoff's syndrome,
of profound depression upon physical/behav- polyneuritis.
ioral functioning — which may appear as men- atropine psychosis Those anticholinergic sids-
tal retardation with schizoid features.
psychoneurosis Emotional maladaptation caused
by unresolved, unconscious conflicts. This leads
to disordered attitudes, behavior, feelings, and

320

effects of confusion/delirium. may require drug titration.

drug psychosis That elicited by mind-altering psychroesthesia That sensory perception of cold

chemicals, illegal street drugs, et al. while the body is objectively assessed to be

fatigue psychosis An acute state of confusion warm.

occurring to one in profound exhaustion and/or ptarmic Sternutatory — that which causes

in extreme sleep deprivation. sneezing.

functional psychosis That which is not caused ptarmus Sneezing spasms.

by organic illness. pternalgia Pain felt in the heel(s). Plantar fasci-

invoiutional psychosis Involutional melancholia itis may be the etiology.

— major depression seen mostly in menopausal pterygium Hypertrophied bulbar conjunctiva(e).

women. ptilosis Loss of the eyelashes.

manic-depressive psychosis Bipolar disorder ptomaine That nitrogenous poison caused by

— that extreme instability of mood which may decomposing bacteria.

include financial/sexual excesses.Some manic ptosis The drooping of a body part/organ.

phases may be psychotic, with the patient out of ptyalagogue Sialogogue, ptyalogogue — that

touch with reality. Lithium is the drug of choice. which stimulates saliva to flow.

organic psychosis That caused by pathology of ptyalectasis Surgical dilatation of a salivary

the central nervous system (CNS). duct(s).

postpartum psychosis Postpartum depression ptyalism Hypersialosis, ptalorrhea. Epilepsy,

(that following childbirth) may evolve to a psy- exophthalmic goiter, drugs, gastrointestinal dis-

chotic stage. With maternity patients discharged orders, hysteria, iodides, menstruation, mer-

earlier than ever, the challenge becomes that of cury, nervousness, pilocarpine, pregnancy,

correctly assessing a mother's (inappropriate) rabies, stomatitis may cause excessivesecretion

affect prior to dismissal. Out of guilt, the patient of saliva.

may conceal her mixed emotions of joy and ptyalithiasis The presence of a calculus in the

overwhelming dysphoria. Such an unrecognized salivary duct/gland. In the operating room, it

situation could place both mother and infant at may be gone.

serious risk. ptyalocele A cystic tumor/dilation of the salivary

senile psychosis That seen in advanced age. gland.

These patients can be assaultive with incredible ptyalolithotomy That surgical extraction of a sali-

strength and hostility. vary calculus.

situational psychosis That caused by extraordi- ptysis The act of expectoration.

nary conflict in unbearablecircumstances. pubarche The onset of puberty.

toxic psychosis Poisonous agents which affect pubertas praecox The pathologically precocious

the central nervous system (CNS). onset of puberty.

traumatic psychosis Closed head injuries may pubescence That maturation accompanied by

result in aggressive language, personality, and development of secondary sexual characteristics

behavior. These patients require close manage- — culminating in sexual maturity/fertility.

ment and monitoring of their increasing Typical ages: girls 9-16; boys 13-15 years.

intracranial pressure (IICP). pubiotomy Hebotomy, hebosteotomy — surgical

psychosurgery Intractable violent/antisocial enlargement of a malformed pelvis by incising

behavior may fail to respond to all forms of the pregnant patient's pubis to facilitate delivery

intervention. Surgical manipulation of the brain of her infant.

may arrest the extreme hostility and super- pubovaginal device Apparatus fitted for vaginal

human strength, but may also cause permanent use to prevent urinary incontinence.

personality changes. pudendal Pubic, pudic.

psychotherapy Interactive psychiatry. pudenda! block That local anesthesia which is

psychotropics Those medications which affect light but sufficient for childbirth.

mentation and, thereby, functioning. Side effects pudendum External female genitalia.

321

pudendum feminum The vulvae. choice — administered by computerized IV
pudendum muliebre External female genitalia. pump. (Emboli may be formed by blood clots,
puerile Juvenile. air, fat, amniotic fluid, foreign bodies.) Homan's
puerperalism Pathology surrounding parturition. sign is the assessment tool. Confirmation is
puerperal sepsis Puerperal septicemia — any made by a ventilation/perfusion scan.
pulmonary emphysema That pathological, dam-
genital tract infection accompanied by fever aging distention of the walls of lung tissue —
above 100.2° F for 2 consecutive days following frequently caused by tobacco abuse. Too often,
24 hours post-delivery/abortion. these patients become respiratory cripples,
Abdominal/genital pain may be present. The dependent upon oxygen.
mortality rate of this complication has lessened. pulmonary fibrosis Formation of scar tissue, fol-
puerperium The period of 42 days following par- lowing pulmonary inflammation, pneumonia, or
turition — in which involution of the reproduc- tuberculosis.
tive organs becomes complete. pulmonary infarction That necrotic tissue within
pugilistica dementia Hand tremors, slurred the lung, following an embolism. Unless these
speech due to brain trauma caused by multiple patients receive aggressive emergency interven-
blows from boxing. Protective head gear must tion, they may expire rapidly.
always be worn, and medical attention obtained pulmonary stenosis That congenital anomaly in
for any injury. which the infant's pulmonary artery is constric-
pulmonary In reference to the respiratory sys- ted at the right cardiac ventricle.
tem. pulmonary transplantation Still in its pioneer
pulmonary abscess Suppuration of the lung stages, the transplantation of a donor lung may
which requires incisional drainage. Cough, replace the diseased tissue of a patient in end-
diaphoresis, dyspnea, pallor, pectoriloquy, puru- stage pulmonary disease. Many of these recipi-
lent sputum, rigor, and/or rales may be the pre- ents go on to die.
senting symptoms of this illusive, major compli- pulmonectomy Pneumonectomy — partial/total
cation. These cases are extremely difficult to excision of the lung.
diagnose until the classic sign is noted — mal- pulsation/palpitation Throbbing vessels which
odorous sputum. Embolization of the abscess is may become hyperdynamic and abnormal.
a secondary danger. Epigastric pulsations may be a side effect of
pulmonary (artery) capillary wedge pressure anemia, anxiety, aortic aneurysm, a hepatic
PCWP is a vital indicator of cardiovascular dis- tumor exerting pressure on the aorta, hyperdy-
orders and status, as measured during cardiac namic cardiac contractions, psychotropic drugs,
catheterization. right ventricular hypertrophy. In the left axillary
pulmonary carcinoma Malignant involvement of region, abnormal pulsations may be attributed
any blood, lymph, tissue cells within the respira- to aneurysm, cardiac hypertrophy, chronic
tory system. pleural/pulmonary disease, pulsating empyema.
pulmonary edema Accumulation of fluid in the Carotid arteries may pulsate due to anemia,
lungs, caused by cardiac failure. The clinical aneurysm, aortic regurgitation, exophthalmic
symptomatology includes cold extremities, goiter, forceful heartbeat, valvular disease. In the
cyanosis, profound dyspnea, frothy sputum with jugular vessels, pulsations may be caused by
blood cells, labored tachypnea. Vigorous treat- tricuspid regurgitation or Valsalva maneuver.
ment of this serious condition includes oxygen pulse That rhythmic beating within a blood ves-
therapy, morphine sulfate. Rotating tourniquets sel.
may be ordered to reverse this grave condition. pulse oximetry A noninvasive, continuous
By this technique, excess fluid is trapped in the method of monitoring arterial blood oxygen sat-
limbs, away from the lungs. uration (Sp02) to prevent the risk of undetected
pulmonary embolism A life-threatening, travel- hypoxemia. This can also be monitored intermit-
ing clot in the pulmonary artery or tributary. tently, in assessment, to determine the time to
Intravenous heparinization is the treatment of

322

discontinue (DC) oxygen (02) therapy, et al. cisternal puncture Piercing the cere-
False readings might be obtained with incorrect bromedullary cisterna through the suboccipital
positioning, patient movement, patient trans- tissue to obtain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
portation, carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) states, exploratory puncture That which is aspirated
and certain diagnoses. As with all instrumenta- by needle to obtain an examination specimen.
tion, care must be taken that an accurate read- lumbar puncture Quincke's puncture, spinal
ing has been obtained. Arterial blood gases puncture, spinal tap — access to the subarach-
(ABGs) will verify this. noid space is achieved at the lumbar level of the
pulse pressure That difference between the dias- spinal cord. The spinal pressure is determined,
tolic/systolic pressures — the indication of arte- and cerebrospinal fluid obtained for analysis.
(The spinal fluid pressure must be read at the
rial wall strength. Normally, the systolic pres- precise moment it registers.) Intrathecal med-
sure is approximately 40 points above the dias- ication may be instilled by the MD, at this time.
tolic reading. Pulse pressures under 30 or over sternal puncture The sternal manubrium is
50 points are within abnormal ranges. pierced by a large-bore needle to aspirate bone
pulsimeter Sphygmomanometer — the appara- marrow. The iliac crest may also be used.
tus which calculates the force and frequency of ventricular puncture That technique used to
the pulse — the blood pressure (BP). aspirate cerebrospinal fluid in cases of increas-
pulsing electromagnetic field (PEMF) That elec- ing intracranial pressure (IICP). This is the pro-
tronic treatment which applies electric current cedure by which air is injected to achieve con-
as stimulation to fractures which have failed to trast ventriculography.
heal. This modality enhances the knitting and puncture wound A small but significant injury
healing of bones. (especially if inflicted as a human bite), because
pulsus Pulse. of the incubation potential for microorganisms
pulsus alternans Alternating strength of the within this closed wound.
beats. pupil The contractile center of each eye. The nor-
pulsus differens Unequal pulses on the left and mal pupils are equal and reactive to
right sides of the body. light/accommodation (PERLA).
pulsus paradoxus Paradoxical pulse — that arte- Adie's pupil A tonic pupil which may not react
rial pressure which weakens/disappears on to light, or does so sluggishly with impaired
inspiration, but strengthens on expiration. This accommodation and slow constriction. This
is a serious cardiovascular sign. pupil may be larger than the unaffected one.
pulsus parvus et tardus That pulse which is Central nervous system pathology is absent.
weak, rising and falling slowly. Argyll Robertson pupil That which fails to react
pulsus tardus A pathological bradycardia. to light, but responds to accommodation.
pulverization The act of crushing a solid to pow- Pathology of the midbrain may be present.
der. artificial pupil Following iridectomy, patients
pulvis Powder. can see through their once-occluded pupil(s).
punch That surgical instrument which cuts small bounding pupil A rapidly contracting and dilat-
circles for skin grafting, punch biopsies, et al. ing pupil.
This method should not be used on melanoma- Bumke's pupil That dilated pupil which
ta. responds to psychic stimulation.
punched out Terminology used for the radiologic fixed pupil That which is nonreactive.
honeycomb appearance of osteopathy. Hutchinson's pupil Unilateral pupillary dilation.
punctate That which is dotted with pinpoint sur- Seen in meningitis, the dilated pupil indicates
face depressions/punctures. the side of the brain lesion.
punctio The process of pricking/puncturing. Marcus Gunn pupil That which constricts more
punctograph That radiographic device which to an indirect light than to a direct source.
localizes foreign bodies imbedded in tissue. tonic pupil That which reacts sluggishly in
puncture To pierce with a sharp point.

323

accommodation/convergence reflexes. purpura simplex That which is not associated
Pupilloplegia. with systemic illness.
pupillary reflex Piltz' reflex — the consensual
accomodation to light. pursed lips expirations A method which enables
purgative A harsh cathartic the COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary dis-
purine-free diet That which excludes alcohol, ease) patient to reduce his/her tachypnea and to
concentrated carbohydrates, fish, fried foods, cough therapeutically. In addition to prolonging
organ meats, poultry, meat. exhalation by pursing the lips, this technique
purinemia The presence of purine in the circula- prevents trapping the air, which yields to bron-
tion. chiolar collapse. Once patients learn to inhale
Purkinje phenomenon Pupillomotor reflex. slowly through the nose, and to exhale twice as
Purkinje-Sanson images Adaptation to the 3 slowly through pursed lips, they practice this
images which the eye normally receives. forced expiration instinctively, whenever dys-
purohepatitis Purulent hepatic inflammation. pneic.
purpura Peliosis — hemorrhagic disease accom-
panied by fever, joint edema, pain, tenderness, purulent That which is infected, with develop-
lesions, pharyngitis, and/or urticaria. ment of pus.
allergic purpura Nonthrombocytopenic purpu-
ra caused by bacteria, food, medication. pustule Pus in the epidermis.
idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) Of pustulosis Generalized pustules.
unknown etiology, a hemorrhagic disorder in Putnam-Dana syndrome Subacute spinal cord
which the body's immune system attacks its
own platelets. Although the coagulation time degeneration, as seen in neglected pernicious
may be normal, bleeding remains a problem. anemia.
Schonlein-Henoch purpura A disease caused putrefaction The decomposition of protein.
by vasculitis. Cutaneous/visceral lesions are putrescence Necrosis — decay of living tissue.
present — the latter difficult to diagnose, and pyarthrosis A suppurative joint cavity.
serious. Unless the allergen can be elicited, pylectasia Pylectasis — dilation of the renal
there is no therapy of choice. pelvis.
senile purpura That occurring in geriatric and pyelithotomy Incision into the renal pelvis to
debilitated patients. Petechiae and ecchymoses extract a calculus which will not pass (or which
appear on the legs. would injure tissue if it were permitted to pass).
thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura A rare pyelitis Inflammation of the kidney(s).
form in which the smaller blood vessels of the calculous pyelitis That complication of a kid-
brain undergo embolization/thrombosis. ney stone.
Neurological signs shift from aphasia and blind- pyelitis cystica Multiple cysts present in the
ness to convulsions. Therapy has been of little renal pelvis.
help. Megadoses of adrenal corticosteroids and pyelocaliectasis Dilatation of the renal calyces
exchange transfusions meet with limited suc- and pelves.
cess. pyelocystitis Inflammation of the bladder and
purpura annularis telangiectodes Majocchi's renal pelvis/pelves.
disease — eruptions of the legs reveal marked pyelocystostomosis A surgical communication
telangiectasia. between the bladder and the kidney.
purpura fulminans The pediatric form of this dis- pyelogram An X-ray of the renal pelves and
ease, which may become rapidly fatal. ureters.
purpura rheumatica Disease accompanied by intravenous pyelogram (IVP) The use of
colic, hematemesis, joint pain, and melena. radiopaque dye in pyelography will determine
purpura pigmentosus That revealed in the bone any obstruction within the urinary tract. Because
marrow — myelodysplasia hematopoiesis. a reaction to this dye could be anaphylactoid,
the history of any allergies must be diligently
determined beforehand.
pyelonephritis Inflammation of the renal
parenchyma as signalled by abrupt rigor accom-

324

panied by dull, unilateral/bilateral flank pain. portal vein.

Tenderness may be elicited upon palpation of adhesive pylephlebitis A thrombosis within the

the kidneys. Signs/symptoms of cystitis (burn- portal vein.

ing upon micturation, urgency and frequency of pylephlebitis obturans An infected portal vein

voiding) are usually present. Alcohol (ETOH) is which is obstructed.

contraindicated. Pyle's disease Metaphyseal dysplasia.

pyelonephrosis Pathology of the renal pelvis. pylethrombophlebitis Inflamed thrombosis with-

Pyelopathy. in the portal vein.

pyeloplasty Surgical repair of the renal pelvis. pylon A temporary prosthetic leg which is

pyeloplication That surgical repair of a dilated applied at the end of the amputation, while the

renal pelvis by taking tucks in the wall of the patient is still on the operating table. By this

kidney. method, ambulation is earlier, and a smoother

pyelostomy Pyelotomy — surgical creation of an adjustment to the final prosthesis is made.

opening from the external body to the renal pyloralgia Pyloric pain.

pelvis. Ureteral catheters must neverbe pylorectomy Pyloric excision.

clamped. A strict intake and output (I & 0) pyloric stenosis Infantile hypertrophic pyloric

record is maintained. stenosis, pyloristenosis, pylorostenosis — stric-

pyemia A fatal septicemia in which multiple ture of the orifice. Obstruction of the

abscesses seed themselves via the circulation. pylorus is manifested by projectile emesis.

Pronounced rigor, metastatic abscess formation, These neonates need to be protected from aspi-

septic pneumonia, and/or empyema may follow. ration. Postoperatively, they are elevated 10° (in

arterial pyemia That caused by dissemination high Fowler's position, postprandially), and do

of emboli from a cardiac thrombus. well.

cryptogenic pyemia Disease buried in deep tis- pyloritis Inflammation of the pylorus.

sue. pylorodiosis Pyloric dilation.

metastatic pyemia That seeded by thrombi. pyloroduodenitis Inflammation of the

portal pyemia A hepatic source of suppurative duodenal/pyloric mucosae.

contamination of the blood. pylorogastrectomy Surgical excision of the

pyencephalus Pyocephalus — suppuration with- pyloric portion of the stomach.

in the cranium, attributed to a brain abscess. pyloromyotomy The incision into, and suturing

pygalgia Pain arising from the buttock(s). of, the pyloric sphincter.

pygodidymus Conjoined twins who are fused at pyloroplasty Surgical repair of pyloric stenosis.

the cephalothorax. Their pelves and extremities Finney pyloroplasty Surgical dilatation of the

are duplicated. pylorus, from the duodenum to the stomach.

pyknemia Pycnemia — increased blood viscosi- Heineke-Mikulicz pyloroplasty Surgical correc-

ty. tion of pyloric stricture — which is incised lon-

pyknodysostosis An inherited deformity which gitudinally, then closedtransversely.

attacks bone formation. These children are often pylorostomy A surgically-constructed opening

short with open fontanels, hypoplastic facial into the pylorus, via the abdominal wall.

bones, and/or dental anomalies which may pylorotomy Surgical relief of hypertrophic steno-

include 2 rows of teeth. Surgical reconstruction sis obtained by incising the submucosae of the

is the only treatment for these abnormalities. pylorus.

pyknometer An instrument which measuresthe pyocele That cavitary distention from suppura-

specific gravity of urine. tion.

pyknophrasia That speech which is thick- pyocelia Formation of pus within the abdomen.

tongued. pyocephalus Intracranial purulent effusion.

pyknosis Inspissation — increased viscosity circumscribed pyocephalus A brain abscess.

caused by degeneratedcells. external pyocephalus Meningeal suppuration.

pylephlebitis Suppurative inflammation of the internal pyocephalus Suppuration within the

325

cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). titis — periodontal pathology. This serious
pyochezia Pyofecia — pus within fecal matter. abscess formation evolves to resorption of alve-
pyocolpocele Pus within a vaginal tumor. olar bone, loosening of teeth, and gum reces-
pyocolpos Pus within the vagina. sion. Teeth may be lost.
pyoderma Any acute, bacterial, inflammatory, pyosalpingitis Pyosalpinx — the retention of pus
in an inflamed fallopian tube.
suppurative dermatitis. pyosalpingo-oophoritis That suppurative infec-
pyoderma gangrenosum Pyoderma of the lower tion of the ovary and fallopian tube.
pyosemia Pus cells present in the semen.
body, as seen in the presence of ulcerative coli- pyostatic That agent which impedes the forma-
tis/cachexia. tion of pus cells.
pyodermia Any suppurative dermatosis. pyothorax Empyema — pus within the pleurae.
pyogenesis Suppuration, pyopoiesis, pus forma- This critical disease is very difficult to diagnose.
tion. pyotorrhea A purulent otic discharge.
pyohemia Pyemia — pus in the blood. pyotoxinemia Bacterial toxemia, blood poison-
pyohemothorax Blood and pus within the pleu- ing.
pyoureter Pus cells within the ureter(s).
rae. pyovesiculosis Pus cells within the seminal vesi-
pyolabyrinthitis Purulent inflammation of the cles.
pyramidotomy Surgical eradication of uncontrol-
labyrinthine apparatus. lable movements through excision of the appro-
pyometra Uterine accumulation of retained pus priate pyramidal tracts of the spinal cord. These
patients may have received only light sedation,
cells. in order to respond to the neurosurgeon's
pyometritis Suppurative uterine infection. instructions as the neural tissue pathology is
pyonephritis A suppurative renal infection. identified. Postoperatively, absence of the
pyonephrolithiasis Calculi with pus cells in the patient's exaggerated tremor may elate every-
one, while the patient is still in the operating
kidney. room (OR).
pyonephrosis Infection within the kidney pelvis, pyretic The fever process.
pyretic therapy Pyritotherapy — the outdated
productive of pus. induction of fever to treat certain diseases.
pyoovarium Ovarian abscess formation. pyreticosis Illness characterized by a febrile
pyopericarditis Suppurative inflammation of the state.
pyretogen Pyrogen — that agent which pro-
pericardium. duces fever.
pyoperitonitis That formation of pus cells in the pyretogenesis Pyretogenesia — the origination
and production of fever.
peritoneal lining of the abdomen. pyretotyphosis That stupor/delirium which is
pyophthalmia Pyophthalmitis — suppuration characteristic of rigor.
pyrexia Fever.
within the eye(s). pyriform Pear-shaped. Piriform.
pyopneumocholecystitis Gallbladder distention pyrolagnia Psychiatric gratification (sometimes
erotic) which is received from setting fires.
by pus and by air. pyromania An obsession for setting and admir-
pyopneumohepatitis Liver abscess with air and ing all-consuming fires — which is a psychiatric
disorder.
pus. pyrophobia An exaggerated fear of fire.
pyopneumopericardium Contamination of the pyroptothymia A psychotic state in which the

pericardial sac by pus and air.
pyopneumoperitoneum Peritonitis complicated

by gas and pus in the abdominal cavity.
pyopneumothorax The presence of pus and gas

within the pleurae. This presents a high risk of
atelectasis.
pyoptysis Purulent expectoration.
pyopyelectasis Dilation of the renal pelvis by
purulent fluid.
pyorrhagia Profuse, purulent drainage.
pyorrhea Purulent discharge.
pyorrhea alveolaris Periodontoclasia, periodon-

326

patient believes hin-/herself to be covered in
flames.
pyrosis Gastritis, "heartburn" — which may be
managed by attention to the patient's food intol-
erances, overeating. Antacids often provide
relief.
pyrotic A caustic, burning quality.
pyrotoxin That poison produced by febrile dis-
ease.
pyuria Pyoturia — pus cells in the urine, indica-
tive of renal pathology.

Q 327

Q fever That acute, occupational disease with theories/treatments elude scientific debate, con-
anorexia, diaphoresis, fever, general malaise, taining unorthodox rituals, and perhaps, non-
headache, myalgia — which is contracted from medical ingredients presented as pharmaceuti-
exposure to infected farm animals. A vaccine is cal agents. Characteristically, the language of
available for those at risk for this illness. Brill's these medical pretenders is idiomatic, and "out-
disease. of-sync".
Religious sentiments, Scripture, and fantastic
quack One who claims to have qualifications in claims may be cited to elicit the unquestioning
healing, without benefit of education nor license. faith of the vulnerable, in the (often) charismatic
S/he may claim secrets and/or divine powers, "healer". These unethical impostors not only
employing magic or charismatic/hysterical ritu- steal the limited funds of their desperate follow-
als. Some MDs allow desperate patients with a ers, they also rob these suffering/dying patients
poor prognosis to seek unorthodox methods, in of the precious little time they may have left to
agreement that they will return for follow-up and live.
continued oversight. quadrant 1 of 4 divisions of a body area — so
defined in order to meet assessment/anatomical
quackery Medical science is committed to shar- purposes.
ing its expertise in the healing arts. Toward this abdominal quadrants left upper, right upper,
end, physicians submit their findings to the left lower, right lower.
scrutiny of colleagues. dental quadrants maxillary right/left, mandibu-
A pretender may falsify his/her academic, pro- lar right/left.
fessional credentials and/or accomplishment(s). quadrantanopia Diminished visual acuity in one
Unorthodox, controversial therapy often carries quarter of the visual field.
the "quack's" name, and may be guaranteed. A quadrantanopsia Blindness in 1/4 of the visual
favorite procedure may be used on a number of field.
patients for varied, unrelated problems. Claims quadrate A 4-sided, quadrilateral square.
of persecution by the medical world may be quadricepsplasty Plastic surgery to release
voiced to patients, and especially to the media. adhesions and/or scars which limit functioning
Unsolicited material is typically edited with rul- of the quadriceps femoris.
ing, highlighting, bold face type, et al., and is quadriceps reflex Patellar reflex, knee-jerk reflex.
distributed as advertising to the general public. quadridigitate The person with 4 digits on a
Fictional, sensationalistic cases are presented as hand and/or foot.
cured. A diagnosis of carcinoma (CA) is made quadrigeminal That with 4 symmetrical parts.
without benefit of accepted diagnostic studies quadrigeminum A quadrant of the brain.
such as laboratory work, radiological confirma- quadriocular Possessing 4 cavities/chambers.
tion, diagnostic imaging, exploratory surgery, et quadripartite That which is divided into 4 parti-
al. (which the unauthorized practitioner is not tions, quadrisectioned, quartersectioned.
permitted to provide). quadriplegia Tetraplegia — paralysis involving
Opportunities to enter into conversation with all extremities, caused by trauma to the 6th and
legitimate professionals, or to seek second, higher vertebra(e). The prognosis is often fatal
objective opinions, are declined, refused, or in vertebral fractures higher than cervical 3 (C3).
accepted with protective, self-designed stipula- Emergency care mandates cervical immobiliza-
tions. Thus, endorsements and claims have only tion prior to attempted transportation of the
the "healer's" claim that the patient actually suf- patient to the trauma center. Crutchfield tongs
fered from the given assignation, or even from may be used, and later replaced by halo skeletal
malignant disease at all. The protective secrecy traction after the patient has stabilized. In recov-
of chemical agents, objective findings (if any), ery, precautions will be taken to guard against
and methodology are arduously secured. If autonomic dysreflexia.
papers are written, they might not be published quadripod cane "Quad cane" — a 4-footed cane
because of controversial content, and/or the
"quack's" lack of credentials. Unique

328

which provides greater stability than the tradi- the US, the entire household was quarantined

tional cane. Check that the patient positions the by the health department.)

quad cane so that the feet will not trip him/her. quassation The shaking of material in order to

(It may need to be turned around.) In ambulat- break it into small particles.

ing, this cane should not be advanced far ahead Quatelet index That formula by which obesity is

of the patient. calculated. The mass body index (BMI). To cal-

quadrupedal reflex The extension of a flexed culate, multiply the weight in pounds x 704 (fac-

arm, upon assuming a crawling posture. tor). Divide by (height/inches). Divide quotient

quadruplets Four infants born in the same gravid by ht/in again to determine BMI %. The appro-

confinement. These are usually born premature- priate BMI: < 25%. BMI > 30% represents mor-

ly. bid obesity.
qualitative analysis That determination which Queckenstedt's sign In a vertebral block of the

identifies the components of a compound/sub- spinal canal, cerebrospinal fluid pressure is

stance. unaffected by compression of the neck veins.

quality An intrinsically positive character. (Normally, this maneuver would cause the

quality assurance (QA) That program which spinal fluid pressure to elevate rapidly, until

achieves the desired standard of health care — release of the constriction occurred.)

as maintained through problem-oriented educa- Quellung reaction This test provides rapid iden-

tion and evaluation. tification of pneumonococci in clinical speci-

quality of life A subjective concept which is mens including cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), spu-

determined by the patient's emotions, environ- tum, exudates.

ment, fulfillment, faith, health, psyche, signifi- quenching A toxicological reversal by antidote.

cant others, and purpose for being. No longer Reduction of the release of radioactive energy.

may resuscitation be withheld by the RNs' judg- Cooling one who is hot.

ment that the suffering patient obviously has no querulent That person who is complaining, dis-

quality of life, unless the MD has orderedDNR satisfied, fussy, suspicious.

(Do not resuscitate.) status. Quervain's disease Chronic tenosynovitis/ten-

quantitative A referenceto numbers. dosynovitis.

quantitative sensorytesting, pressure-specified quickening Early fetal movements in utero. The

sensory device Because of the pain and high physician/midwife should be notified if well-

cost associated with traditional electrodiagnostic established uterine movements should cease.

studies, as well as the high percentage of false Quick's test That blood chemistry test which cal-

negatives in patients with nerve compressions, culates prothrombin in blood plasma, revealing

and the poor correlation between patient symp- the status of liver function.

tomatology and electrical testing, quantitative Quincke's capillary pulsation Seen in aortic

sensory testing has beendeveloped. regurgitation, that sign of aortic insufficiency —

Quantitative sensory testing can assess either as indicated by rhythmic blanching/flushing

temperature perception, vibratory perception, or beneath the nails.

pressure perception. Quantitative sensory test- Quincke's disease Angioneurotic edema accom-

ing with the pressure-specified sensory device panied by urticaria.

is more sensitive than traditional electrodiag- Quincke's puncture Lumbar puncture.

nostic studies, can distinguish diabetics with quinine urea hydrochloride A vascular scleros-

and without ulcerations related to their neuropa- ing agent.

thy, and can identify nerve compressions. This quininism Cinchonism — cinchona poisoning.

modality is not painful, uses no electrical quinoline An antiseptic/solvent used in the treat-

shocks, and is relatively inexpensive. ment of amebic dysentery, other infections, and

quantum An exact amount. as analgesia, or antipyretics.

quarantine Rarely used today, an isolation period Quinquad's disease Purulent folliculitis of the

for the patient with a communicable disease. (In scalp. Alopeciaareata may follow.

329

quinsy Peritonsillar abscess. If not in intensive
care, these patients should be specialled with a
tracheotomy set in the room. Surgical incision
and drainage (I & D) may be performed.

quintessential The purest form. The most typi-
cal, representative example.

quintuplets Five babies born to the same mother,
within the same pregnancy. These premature
infants belong in a neonatal intensive care unit.
If there is none, their survival may depend on
their being transported to a hospital with such
facilities.

quotidian Each day.
quotidian fever Malarial fever presenting with

daily paroxysms/exacerbations.
quotient The number of times a larger figure

contains the smaller. The answer to a problem
in division.
achievement quotient Allowing for the child's
age, education, and the results of peers, that
percentile of the child's testing.
intelligence quotient (IQ) One's mental age
divided by his/her age in years.
respiratory quotient The expired carbon diox-
ide divided by the inhaled oxygen. Normal: 0.9.
Q-switch A newer technique used with a ruby
laser. This brief exposure to laser light erases
pigment to eradicate birthmarks, tattoos, et al.,
without destroying adjacent tissue cells.
Q wave A negative/downward wave following the
P wave on the electrocardiograph. Its absence
may be insignificant.

R

rabbetting The interlocking of the fractured CAUTION
edges of bone.

rabies Hydrophobia — that acute infectious

process which is transmitted by carnivores. (In RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL

addition to bites, this disease may also be trans-

mitted through animal scratches, or by inhala-

tion of a rabid animal). Wild animals and those

cross-bred with dogs should not be kept as

pets. (Dogs are the principal vector of rabies in

Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Wild animals

constitute the most important vector in the

United States.) Any penetration of the skin by

teeth constitutes an exposure. The wound

should be treated with disinfectant, but not

sutured. Airborne exposuresare rare, having DO NOT REMOVE

occurred in laboratories, and in bat-infested WITHOUT HEALTH PHYSICS' APPROVAL

caves. Human-to-human transmissions have

proven fatal to six patients in Thailand, India, Universal radiation symbol

United States, and France — following their

corneal transplantations. More stringent restric- the vertebral canal.

tions for these donations have reduced this risk. rachischisis Spina bifida.

The large number of rabies-infected cats is rachitis rickets, rhachitis, spinal inflammation.

attributed to fewer cat vaccination laws. The rachitome A surgical instrument used to incise

rabies victim may find that attempts to swallow the spinal canal.

provoke laryngospasm. Convulsions lead to raclage Curettage.

opisthotonos posturing. Confine this patient to a radiability The ability to be penetrated by X-ray.

darkened room, monitoring his/her cardiac and radial Projection from a central point.

respiratory functioning. A tracheotomy tray radial keratotomy(RK) Microsurgery which can

should be in the room. Death can follow paraly- correct moderate myopia by incising/suturing

sis. the cornea, rendering glasses unnecessary.

Rabson-Mendenhall syndrome That combina- Refractive surgery cannot be reversed. This pro-

tion of dysmorphic symptoms characterized by cedure has been refined by photorefractive kera-

pineal hyperplasia and dental dysplasia. tectomy (PRK).

race That classification of ethnicity which reveals radial reflex Flexion of the lower arm, caused by

distinct characteristics inherited from a common percussion of the lower radius.

ancestor. radiation Emission of energy through matter or

rachialgia Rachiodynia — spinal pain. space. The projection of acoustics, auditory,

rachianalgesia Rachianesthesia — spinal anes- corpuscular, electromagnetic, heterogenous,

thesia. homogenous, infrared, interstitial, ionizing, irri-

rachicele Herniation of spinal cord tissues in the tating, occipitothalamic, optic, photochemical,

infant/child with spina bifida. pyramidal, solar, striatothalamic, ultraviolet, visi-

rachicentesis Rachiocentesis — spinal puncture. ble rays/wavelengths. The Universal Radiation

rachiocampsis Spinal pathology, curvature. Symbol must be displayed wherever there could

rachiopagus Congenially conjoined twins, be a potential exposureto radioactivity. This

attached by vertebral fusion. symbol must appear in the legal colors of purple

rachiopathy Spinal pathology. on dark gold.

rachioplegia Paralysis caused by a spinal cord ionizing radiation injury That caused by thera-

lesion. peutic radiation. The amount of all forms of

rachiotomy Rachitomy — A surgical incision of radioactive sources is restricted to a specific

331

and individually-accumulated lifetime dosage. is present, the universal radiation symbol (in its
radiation accidents Contamination errors by legal colors of purple on dark gold) must be
prominantly posted. This includes ionizing radi-
inhalation or exposure: 1. The patient who ation, radiant energy emergence,et al.
receives up to a lethal dose of radiation as a radioactive decay The spontaneous disintegra-
whole body exposure. S/he is no more haz- tion which occurs with the emission of radiant
ardous to others than the patient undergoing energy.
diagnostic X-ray studies. 2. The patient who radioactive patient One who emits radiation
receives internal contamination by from his/her accidental contamination (or radia-
ingestion/inhalation. Consideredto be of no risk tion treatment). Pregnant women and children
to others, s/he is chemically poisoned. Excreta should not be permitted to visit!
is hazardous, and must be assessed for nuclide radioactive tracer Chemical atoms which have
content. 3. External contamination is compara- been activated for diagnostic scanning. No pre-
ble to infestation. Surgical isolation is required. cautions need be used.
4. Radioactive contamination involving a wound radioanaphylaxis Life-threatening sensitivity to
requires surgical isolation and radiological con- X-rays.
sultation. Excretaand refuse from each patient radiocinematograph Fluoroscopy with recorded
must be labeled "RADIOACTIVE — do not dis- film. This form emits more radiation than do
card!" (This includes irrigation and cleansing typical X-rays.
solutions.) Patient/staff clothing must be saved. radiocystitis Urinary bladder infection (UTI) sec-
Nursing staff must also observe personal and ondary to radiation therapy.
environmental decontamination procedures. radiodermatitis Radioepidermitis — skin pathol-
radiation retinopathy A serious complication ogy caused by irradiation.
secondary to total body irradiation or radiodiagnosis Conclusions derived from X-rays,
chemotherapy. radiology.
radiation syndrome Radiation sickness may be radioelectrocardiography Telemetry, Hotter
characterized by alopecia, amenorrhea, anom- EKG/ECG.
alies, anorexia, aplastic bone marrow, radioelement A radioisotope.
bleeding/clotting disorders,carcinogenesis, radiofrequency ablation The modality of cardiac
cataract formation, diarrhea, genetic changes, catheterization — through which abnormal con-
headache, hematopoetic anomalies, hemor- ductive tissue is destroyed by electrocauteriza-
rhage, leukemia, loss of teeth, lymphatic tissue tion.
lysis, nausea with emesis, sterility, death. radiofrequency electrophrenic respiration
radical treatment The opposite of conservative Electronic stimulation of phrenic innervation to
therapy, mutilative surgery, et al., is proposed the respiratory musculature which has been
as an absolute cure. paralyzed by cervical spinal cord damage.
radicotomy Radiculectomy, rhizotomy — surgi- Subcutaneous electrodes transmit this stimula-
cal resection/excision/sectioning of spinal nerve tion which achieves diaphragmatic contraction.
roots. radiogenic Actinogenic — that which is caused
radiculalgia Neuralgia involving the nerve roots. by, and/or produces, radiation.
radiculitis Painful spinal nerve inflammation radiograph Roentgenogram, radiogram, exposed
accompanied by hyperesthesia. X-ray film.
radiculomeningomyelitis Inflammation of the lateral cephalometric radiograph That X-ray of
spinal cord, meninges, and spinal nerve roots. the entire head in a known, fixed position which
radiculomyelopathy Any disease process involv- facilitates measurements and definitive assess-
ing the spinal cord and nerve roots. ment/diagnosis.
radiculoneuropathy The diseased condition of panoramic radiograph An extraoral X-ray
nerves. which encircles the patient to produce a single,
radioactive That which is capable of emiting total view of the mandible and maxilla. This is
radiant energy. At every area where radioactivity

332

much more reliable than multiple bite plate tubercular patients.

views, and should be used in cases of suspect- coarse riles Those originating within large

ed fractures of the jaw(s). Skull films, CT scan- bronchi.

ning may also be ordered for trauma patients crackling riles Those auscultated over pneu-

(pts). monic exudation, upon inspiration.

radioimmunity Partial insensitivity which may be dry rales Those auscultated on

acquired following multiple radiation treatments. inspiration/expiration in the patient with asthma,

radiolucent Radiosensitive, radioparent, radiore- bronchitis, early tuberculosis.

sponsive, radiotransparent — that which is pen- moist riles Those auscultated over fluid-filled

etrable by X-ray. bronchi.

radiopotentiation The enhancement of radioac- redux rales Those auscultated with uneven

tivity by oxygen and certain medications. crackling during both inspiration/expiration in

radioresistant That which cannot be destroyed bronchial pneumonia which is resolving.

by X-rays. sibilant riles Those auscultated at the end of

radioscopy Fluoroscopy. That X-ray modality the inspiration phase, with prominent high-

which enables a diagnostic survey of physiolog- pitched whistles.

ical processes. sonorous riles Snoring during inspiration as

radiotherapy Treatment by radium. well as during expiration.

radiothermy That therapeutic application of subcrepitant riles Those auscultated both dur-

radioactive/radiant heat. ing inspiration/expiration, in capillary bronchitis.

radiotoxemia Poisoning caused by radioactive vesicular riles Crepitant rales — those auscul-

exposure. tated at the end of inspiration, as heard in early

radium (Ra) A fluorescent, radioactive element pulmonary edema, hypostatic pneumonia, and

essential in cancer therapy. pulmonary tuberculosis.

radon (Rn) A radioactive element which causes ramification Branching out.

pulmonary carcinoma (CA). ramollissement Pathologic softening of tissue.

rage Violent anger. rancid Sour and offensive, in a stage of decom-

sham rage That rage reaction produced by position.

decorticated animals under stimulation. random controlled trial That experimental dou-

ragsorter's disease That febrile, pulmonary ill- ble-blind protocol by which drugs/treatments

ness caused by the anthrax bacillus — seen in are tested before acceptancefor marketing. The

transients and the homeless. This may be com- subjects are assigned by randomization. Neither

pounded by malnutrition, infestation. their physicians nor they know whether they are

Raimiste's phenomenon A reaction seen in receiving the trial medication/procedure under

hemiplegics — resistance to abduction/adduc- study, or placebo. If it should become medically

tion of the uninvolved hip evokes the same reac- necessary to know, the blind will be broken for

tion in the paralyzed hip. that subject. S/he will not be returned to the

rales Abnormal pulmonary sounds heard upon trial.

auscultation during inspiration and/or expira- ranula A large, painless retention cyst beneath

tion. the tongue. This requires excision.

atelectatic rales Transitory wheezing that dis- pancreatic ranula This cystic condition is

appears upon coughing/deep breathing. caused by obstruction of the pancreatic ducts.

bronchiectatic rales Wheezing auscultated over rape A violent (notsexual) attack in which het-

cavities of bronchiectasis — which disappear ero-/homosexual intercourse is forced against

following expectoration. another's will. The victim/perpetrator may be

cavernous rales Those hollow/metallic wheezes male/female, adult or juvenile.

auscultated during both inspiration and expira- rapid cycling In the patient (pt) diagnosed with

tion. bipolar disorder ("manic depression"), four

clicking rales Those heard upon inspiration, in episodes of significant lability within the year.

333

rapport Mutual understanding and respect. with a short wavelength.
Ideally, that therapeutic alliance between the hertzian rays Electromagnetic waves.
physician and patient, nurse and patient (pt). luminous rays Spectral waves which are visi-
ble.
raptus An abrupt attack/seizure. medullary rays Pars radiata lobuli corticalis
rarefaction Decrease of density. The process of renis — straight kidney tubules.
monochromatic rays Those characterized by
excessive parathormone rendering bone more specific wavelengths.
porous. roentgen rays X-rays used for therapeutic and
rarefying osteitis Chronic bone inflammation diagnostic purposes.
accompanied by granulation of the marrow, with scattered rays Deflected X-rays which could
absorption of bone tissue. place unprotected staff and others at risk.
rash Exanthema, dermatitis. ultraviolet rays Those spectral waves of vary-
raspatory Xyster — that file used in orthopedic ing lengths which produce photographic/photo-
surgery. chemical effects, and which rapidly destroy bac-
rat-bite fever An infectious disease transmitted terial vitality.
by rats. Back/joint pain, dermatitis, headache, reaction A response to a stimulus. A chemical
recurrent fever, ulceration, or vomiting may be change/process. Stimulated transformation of a
noted. substance into another. A counteraction. That
rational Sane, reasonable, logical, of sound mental/emotional status following stress.
mind, appropriate. alarm reaction That occurring in the general
rationale The reasoning behind a protocol, pro- adaptation syndrome, resulting in the responses
cedure, or course of action. of shock and/or injury.
rationalization That justification for an illogical, allergic reaction Hypersensitive response to an
ill-advised decision, used to give it credibility. antigen.
raucous A harse, hoarse sound. anaphylactoid reaction Anaphylaxis — that
Raynaud's disease That peripheral vascular con- life-threatening response to a protein substance.
dition characterized by cold or stress-induced Arias-Stella reaction Decidual alterations in the
vasoconstriction in the extremities. Cyanosis of endometrial epithelium — which may be a sig-
the digits may be noted. Maintenance of warmth nal of ectopic pregnancy.
and total abstinence from tobacco are mandato- chain reaction That self-propagation response
ry. Auto-amputation may attack the digits, tissue in which each stage is caused by that preceding
by tissue. — which in turn, causes the next stage.
Raynaud's phenomenon Attacks of digital con- consensual reaction That crossed reflex — an
striction, pallor, followed by cyanosis, redden- involuntary action.
ing, pain, then improvement. Burning and conversion reaction Hysterical neurosis in
numbness may be felt. This may appear sec- which loss of functioning represents a psychi-
ondary to myxedema, occlusive arterial disease, atric need or conflict.
pulmonary hypertension, systemic scleroderma, defense reaction An ego-protective response.
thoracic outlet syndrome, trauma. These delayed reaction That response occurring a
patients are at risk for Raynaud's disease. significant time after the stimulus.
rays Divergent lines extending from a common dissociative reaction A sudden, temporary
center. change in normal functioning or consciousness,
actinic rays Chemical rays. identity, and/or motor behavior.
Becquerel's rays Those emitted from radioac- false-negative reaction That response which is
tive substance. in reality, positive.
cosmic rays Millikan's rays — radiation with false-positive reaction That response which is
high penetration power and velocity. in error and is in reality, negative.
delta rays Highly penetrative waves emitted by immune reaction That which indicates the
radioactive substances.
hard rays X-rays which penetrate powerfully,

334

presence of antibodies in the circulation. the hospital with the patient.

leukemic reaction Leukemoid reaction — rebound phenomenon That indication of a cere-

those changes present in leukemia. bellar lesion — in exerting force with an extrem-

local reaction That which occurs at the site of ity, against resistance, the limb will continue

invasion. despite removal of that resistance.

myasthenic reaction Repeated stimulation of a recall Remembering lost material which has

muscle causes decreased responses, until the been experiencedor learned, but forgotten. This

contractions gradually fail to occur. includes people and functioning.

neutral reaction That which is neither alkaline recanalization Restoration of patency through an

nor acidic — pH 7.0. occluded vessel.

ophthalmic reaction That local conjunctival recapitulation theory "Ontogeny recapitulates

response to the typhoid/tuberculosis toxin. phytogeny". The premise that in utero and

transfusion reaction The fatal response follow- throughout life, one's experiences/milestones

ing administration of incompatible blood. approximate those of one's ancestors.

Despite typing and crosmatching, the patient recession Ulatrophia — withdrawal of a body

may be given blood which results in hemolysis part from its normal position. Exposure of a

of the donor's and recipient's erythrocytes. Such tooth due to gingival atrophy.

a transfusion must be discontinued STAT. rechallenge When a patient's reaction to a drug

reactivation A return to functioning. (or substance) has been extraordinary, the

reactive airways dysfunction syndrome physician may wish to confirm this in his/her

Following high-level irritant exposure, the presence. With signed consent, and resuscita-

patient with a normal airway will experience per- tion equipment on standby, the sensitivity

sistent asthma. episode will be re-enacted.

reactive depression That affective disorder recidivism Repetition of criminal/antisocial acts,

which evolves out of situational maladjustment. following release from prison, et al.

reactive hypoglycemia The blood sugar dip to a recipient One who receives. The recipient of a

normal low point postprandially, followed by an donated body part, organ, blood.

adrenaline surge. reciprocal That which is exchangeable/inter-

reagent That substance involved in a (chemical) changeable.

reaction. reciprocal inhibition Muscle antagonism, in

reality principle The simultaneous balance of which coordination/interaction is enhanced.

society's demands and an individual's personal reciprocity The recognition of licensure by

goals. another state, upon submission of credentials,

reality testing Full orientation to the environment fees, and/or exams.

and its significance to the patient. Reclus' disease Benign, cystic, mutiple neo-

reality therapy "Confrontation minimizes distor- plasms of the breast.

tion." — the concept behind patients' denial. recompression Hyperbaric oxygen chamber in

reanastomosis Surgically reuniting that structure therapy, to reverse decompression sickness, gas

which has been severed, ligated, excised. emboli, et al.

reanimate To resuscitate, revive, reactivate. reconstitution Hydration (replacing water) of that

reasonable care That legal criterion by which a in a dehydrated state.

malpractice case is weighed and judged. Many record That legal document which is the patient's

of these cases come to litigation following a dis- chart.

appointing outcome which was insensitively recovery The return to a former state of subjec-

managed. Those prudent acts which should be tive/objective health and wellness.

performed by the competent nurse. recovery room Post-anesthesia recovery (PAR).

reattachment That surgical/microsurgical rejoin- A specialized room in the operating suite for

ing of a severed portion of the body. Whenever patients recovering from general anesthesia.

possible, the severed part should be brought to They are closely monitored during this immedi-

335

ate postoperative status, and must never be left manipulation, (no surgery), and immobilization.
open reduction Surgical realignment of a com-
alone. (If any should speak subconciously, this pound fracture — which might require pinning
is to be held as strictly confidential.) or skeletal traction.
recrement A secretion which the body reab- reduction diet That which is assigned (with exer-
sorbs. cise) to achieve weight loss.
recrudescence A relapse following a remission. reduction of a hernia Manual or surgical restora-
recrudescent That resumption of activity follow- tion of herniation with/without application of a
ing an inactive period. support.
rectal crisis Rectalgia with tenesmus, which redundant Repetition, in excess.
occurs in locomotor ataxia. re-education Physiotherapy to restore muscular
rectal reflex The stimulation to defecate — aris- tone and skills. Rehabilitation for the
ing from the presence of feces in the rectal mentally/physically disabled. A refresher course
ampulla. for professionals who have spent time out of
rectification The process of correcting, purifying, their fields, enables them to return to their pro-
refining, straightening, and setting right. fessions.
rectocystotomy That development of an incision referred pain That discomfort perceived in a part
into the bladder, through the wall of the rec- of the body which is not a source of pathology.
tum/colon, to extract a calculus/calculi. refine To purify.
rectophobia That acute anticipatory fear of carci- reflection An image.
noma in patients with proctopathology. reflex That involuntary response to a stimulus.
rectoscope A speculum used to examine the rec- Reflexes are predictable, specific, purposeful,
tosigmoid colon. and adaptive.
rectosigmoidectomy Surgical excision into the abdominocardiac reflex That slowing of the
rectum and adjoining sigmoid colon. cardiac rate in response to visceral stimulation.
rectostenosis A rectal stricture. accommodation reflexes Pupillary reactions to
recumbent Lying, inactive. light and focus.
dorsal recumbent Supine, lying on the back. acquired reflex A conditioned reflex.
lateral recumbent Lying on one's side. allied reflexes Those initiated by several widely
ventral recumbent Prone, lying on the separated receptors.
abdomen. antagonistic reflexes Responses initiated
recuperation Complete and full recovery. simultaneously in receptors which produce
Red Cross That international organization which opposite effects.
has been lauded for its neutrality and humani- autonomic reflex That involving the response
tarian acts during war, disaster, tragedy, et al. of a visceral effector (always a preganglionic
They operate blood banks, sponsor swimming and postganglionic neuron).
lessons, life guard courses, cardiopulmonary Babinski's reflex Plantar reflex — stimulation
resuscitation (CPR) instruction, continuing edu- of the sole of the foot causes the great toe to
cation, and more. Many countries have national- extend while the other toes fan. A normal sign
ized their own Red Cross organizations. in infants, this is a pathological finding in all
redifferentiation Resumption by malignant cells, over 10 months of age, as in brain damage.
of mature cells' characteristics. Bainbridge reflex Bainbridge effect — the
red-man syndrome An erythematous reaction in heart rate elevates in the presence of cardiac
which flushing is associated with hypotension distention and increased blood pressure.
and pruritus. biceps reflex Flexion of the forearm upon per-
redressement The multiple dressing of wounds. cussion of the biceps brachii tendon.
Revision of a deformity. carotid sinus reflex Pressure on the neck over
reduction Loss of weight. The restoration of frac- the carotid sinus will slow tachycardia. This is
tured bones. performed as carotid massage.
closed reduction Realignment of bone ends by

336

cat's eye reflex That pediatric finding of a kinetic reflex Labyrinthine reflex — that pos-
reflection in the eye(s) as seen under dimin- tural response which results from stimulation of
ished natural lighting. This reflex may be caused receptors in the inner ear.
by a number of conditions including congenital local reflex That which does not involve the
ophthalmic malformations, inflammatory oph- central nervous system (CNS).
thalmic pathology, tuberous sclerosis, and most lung reflex Dilation of the pulmonary parenchy-
significantly — retinoblastoma. ma beneath the irritated/cold tissues of the tho-
chain reaction That of serial responses — each rax.
activated by the previous response. Magnus-de Kleijn reflex Seen in the patient
conditioned reflex That learned through train- with decerebrate rigidity — when the chin is
ing and/or experience. turned, the limbs on that side extend to that
consensual reflex Crossed reflex, indirect side, and the opposite limbs flex.
reflex. Stimulation which affects its response on mass reflex Due to the release from the inhibi-
the opposite side of the body. tion of higher cortical centers, widespread
convulsive reflex That seizure which is induced responses radiate from a weak stimulus in the
by a weak stimulus — as seen in strychnine patient whose spinal cord has been sectioned.
poisoning. Mayer's reflex Pressure on the index finger
cranial reflex That originating in the brain. elicits adduction/opposition of the thumb, flex-
crossed extension reflex A painful, tactile stim- ion of the metacarpophalangeal joint, extension
ulus will exhibit a response in the opposite of the interphalangeal joint.
lower leg. Mendel-Bekhterev reflex Percussion of the
deep reflexes Those of the ankles, bones, dorsum of the foot elicits plantar flexion of the
elbows, jaws, knees, tendons, triceps, wrists, et toes.
al. Moro reflex That startle reflex of a neonate in
delayed reflex Hesitation of response follows which s/he defensively flails the extremities,
the stimulus. then embraces itself — in response to the exam
diving reflex Bradycardia is seen in response table being struck.
to immersion of the head in water. myenteric reflex Intestinal reflex caused by
elementary reflexes Those common to all ver- abdominal distention.
tebrates — extensor thrust, flexion, postural, neck-righting reflex Seen between the ages of
and stretch reflexes. 4-24 months, the supine child rotates his/her
extensor thrust That brief extension of a leg, trunk in the direction that his/her head is turned.
when pressure is applied to the sole. optical righting reflex That use of visual stim-
flexor withdrawal A painful stimulus to the foot uli to maintain the head's/body's normal posi-
causes flexion of the lower leg. tioning. This enables ballet dancers to make
grasp reflex That response of the fingers when consecutive turns without becoming dizzy or
stimulated. losing balance.
Hoffmann's reflex Flicking the 2nd, 3rd, 4th palmar grasp reflex Seen between birth and 6
fingernail elicits flexion of the thumb. months — that grasp of whatever touches the
hung-up reflex As seen in hypothyroidism, palm.
delayed relaxation phase of the deep tendons. palm-chin reflex Vigorous stroking of the
inborn reflex That inherited, innate, uncondi- thenar eminence elicits a contraction of the
tioned response. lower lip muscles and skin on that side.
indirect reflex A crossed response. parachute response The child 9 months and
intersegmental reflex Long reflex — that older extends his/her extremities and digits
involving many spinal cord segments. when suspended in a prone position and
intrasegmental reflex That involving only one dropped onto a pillow. An asymmetrical
spinal cord segment. response indicates a motor nerve anomaly.
jaw reflex Chin reflex. patellar reflex Quadriceps reflex, knee-jerk

337

reflex — striking the patellar tendon with a spinal cord motor centers — abdominal, cre-

reflex hammer, will cause the knee to extend. masteric, epigastric, gluteal, plantar, scapular

pathologic reflex That which is symptomatic. reflexes, or upon medullary centers: conjuncti-

placing reflex Seen between birth and 6 val, palatal, pupillary reflexes.

months — the infant who is held erect with swallowing reflex Deglutition reflex — that

his/her foot dragged along the exam table, will successive, muscular/neural responseto palatal

flex, then extend that leg. stimulation (by food), et al.

postural reflex That response which is included tendon reflex That deep response elicited by

in the maintenance of an erect posture. percussion over a tendon. This may be exagger-

pressor reflex That which elevates the blood ated, brisk, normal, diminished, or absent,

pressure by constricting the arterioles. according to neuropathy.

proprioceptive reflex That initiated by body tonic neck reflex The neonatal response to

movement in order to sustain its position. All having the head turned passively — extension

reflexes stimulated by a proprioceptor. of the extremity(s) on that side. The opposite

psychogalvanic reflex Decreasein the electric extremity(s) will flex.

resistance of the skin responding to a stimulus asymmetrical tonic neck reflex A unilateral

and/or emotional stress. abnormality of the above response.

pupillary reflex That response to light and triceps reflex That brisk response of the elbow

accommodation. Both pupils should react equal- when the percussion hammer strikes this ten-

ly. PERLA: Pupils equal and reactive to light and don of the flexed arm.

accommodation. unconditioned reflex An inherited, natural,

quadriceps reflex Knee-jerk reflex, patellar spontaneous response.

reflex. vascular reflex Vasomotor response.

quadrupedal extensor reflex Brain's reflex. visceral reflex That response induced by

red reflex The red reflection seen when light organic stimulation.

strikes the retina (as in some flash, color film). visceromotor reflex The contraction of skeletal

righting reflex Whichever reflexes enable the muscles which is caused by painful visceral

body to maintain its erect posture in relation to stimulation. Tenesmus.

the head. reflex action That reflexive, involuntary response

rooting reflex Present from birth to 7 months, to stimulation.

stroking the infant's cheek causes him/her to reflexogenic That which elicits a reflexive action.

seek the source of stimulation by turning his/her reflux Return/backward/retrograde flow.

head (in search of a nipple). gastric reflux Regurgitation of gastric fluids

somatic reflex That induced by the stimulation into the esophagus. Respiratory symptoms,

of (somatic) nerve endings. rather than gastric, may be noted. Esophageal

static reflex That involved with sustained pos- reflux.

ture while at rest. hepatojugular reflux In the presenceof con-

statokinetic reflexes Those involved in body gestive heart failure, increased cervical venous

movement. pressure is demonstrated when pressure is

stepping reflex That neonatal response of applied to the liver by the physician.

walking, elicited when the erect infant, age 1-6 vesicoureteral reflex During micturation, that

weeks is held upright with feet "stepping" on a retrograde flow of urine up the ureter.

flat surface. refraction That deflection of light rays.

stretch reflex Myotatic reflex. errors of refraction Ametropia — imperfect

sucking reflex Those movements produced by focusing upon the retinae.

the neonate when his/her lips are static refraction That present when the eye(s)

stroked/touched. is paralyzed or at rest.

superficial reflex That cutaneous response refractionist An optometrist.

caused by stimulation of areas dependent upon refractoriness A total lack of response to what-

338

ever therapy is attempted. aortic/mitral/tricuspid valve(s).

refractory Stubborn, obstinate. The patient who duodenal regurgitation That flow of chyme to

is resistant to therapy, intentionally or other- the stomach, from the duodenum.

wise. That nerve/muscle which is resistant to functional regurgitation That caused by dilata-

stimulation. A condition which does not respond tion of the great vessels and cardiac ventricles.

to treatment. mitral regurgitation Backflow of blood from

refrigeration anesthesia Loss of sensory per- the left ventricle through the left atrium —

ception due to exposure/cold. Hypothermia. caused by an incompetent bicuspid/mitral valve.

Refsum's disease That hereditary/metabolic pulmonic regurgitation Backflow of circulation

anomaly in which ataxia, cardiac disease,and to the right ventricle, via the pulmonary artery.

visual disturbances may be evident. tricuspid regurgitation That circulation which

Refsum's syndrome Neonatal adrenoleukodys- flows retrograde into the right ventricle via the

trophy — that rare, genetic disorder which pulmonary artery.

leaves its victims both deaf and blind. The prob- valvular regurgitation A reversed blood flow

lem is that inability to metabolize phytanic acid. through an incompetent valve.

There is no known cure. rehabilitation Education and therapy designed to

regeneration The regrowth, repair, and/or enable the impaired patient to achieve an appro-

restoration of body tissue. priate level of independence, maximum func-

regimen Systematic order — a modality of care, tioning, and self-confidence — despite his/her

a protocol of philosophy and procedure(s). limitations.

regional cerebral blood flow Following inhala- rehalation A technique of rebreathing.

tion of the tracer Xenon 133, a 2-dimensional Reifenstein's syndrome Incomplete male

image is calculated. This modality is time-con- pseudohermaphroditism. There is no treatment

suming, demonstrates poor spatial resolution, for the resultant infertility.

and cannot image subcortical structures. reimplantation Replantation — that surgical

register A series of tones. An official record. restoration of an excised/lost/severed body part.

registered nurse (RN) That licensed professional reinforcement The augmentation, strengthening,

who is preparedto be on duty/call to supervise motivating, enhancing of care and education.

and deliver advanced patient care. S/he must be reinforcement of reflex That augmenting, com-

licensed by the state in which s/he works, or pounding, and/or exaggeration of a stimulus

suffer disciplinary action. Continuing education due to anxiety.

is required. reinfusion That (re)injection of cerebrospinal

registry A placement service for nurses (and fluid (CSF) or serum.

others). reinnervation The grafting of a nerve to achieve

regression Retrogression, regressive — that response in paralyzedtissue(s). Nerve anasto-

return to a former physical/psychological state. mosis.

The return of symptomatology. reintegration Psychiatric resumption of appro-

regular Conformed, methodical, normal, steady, priate behavior and mental funtioning, following

typical. mental disintegration of the personality.

regulated That which is directed/controlled. Restoration to mental health.

regulator An apparatus which governs the reinversion The resolution of an inverted organ.

administration of blood, fluids, medications, Reiter's syndrome (RS) That symptom complex

oxygen, et al. which is seen more often in young male patients

regurgitation Flow in a reversed, retrograde — arthritis, conjunctivitis, urethritis. There is no

direction. treatment of choice for this condition (which

aortic regurgitation Backflow of blood into the may be sexually transmitted).

left ventricle, due to an incompetent aortic valve. rejection Intentional/unintentional refusal to

cardiac regurgitation Reversed, retrograde cir- accept a graft/person/situation.

culation caused by incompetent closure of the acute rejection An early destruction of trans-

339

plantation — which may be reversed by be prevented.
enhanced immune-suppression. renal cauculus/calculi Kidney stone(s). This
chronic rejection Slow disintegration of trans-
planted material over the months/years follow- patient presents in exquisite pain, nausea,
ing surgery. diaphoresis, and shock. This renal colic accom-
hyperacute rejection Prompt, unrelenting, irre- panies hydronephrosis and/or hydroureter.
versible disintegration of a transplant, due to an Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy may be
antibody reaction. ordered, to break up the calculus. This is moni-
rejuvenescence A return to more youthful years tored by X-ray to assure that the kidney pelvis is
— as may be envisioned by many in their matu- not being traumatized as the stone progresses.
rity. This inappropriate life style may represent Precise accounting of intake/output is required,
while all urine is strained.
denial. renal clearance test A kidney function test.
relapse The return of symptoms, following the renal damage That aggravated by hypertension,
nephrocalcinosis, and/or renal calculi.
recovery from those symptoms. renal insufficiency Reduced kidney functioning.
relapsing polychondritis Systemic cartilagenous renal output stages Anuria: 0-99 cc/24 hours;
Oliguria: 100-399 cc/24 hours; Nonoliguria: 400+
illness — an autoimmune disease. Arthritis, cc/24 hours: Polyuria: 6,000+ cc/24 hours.
deafness, and/or visual impairment may accom- renal papillary necrosis The destruction of kid-
pany the serious tracheomalacia which pro- ney tissue caused by acute pyelonephritis, uri-
duces severe expiratory airway obstruction, nary obstruction, diabetes mellitus, phenacetin
leading to death. abuse, sickle cell trait. Therapy consists of
relation That connection of anatomical and bio- antibiotics, hydration, irrigation of the renal
logical features. A relative. pelvis per ureteral catheterization. (Ureteral
relaxant That which reduces tension. An anxi- catheters must never be clamped.)
olytic. renal scanning That radioactive study which
remedial The recovery of lost/unlearned facts, determines kidney function.
functioning, skills, et al. renal transplantation The grafting of a donor
remission A stage of illness during which the kidney — the major complication of which is
symptomatology and/or severity is lessened, or osteopenia. This risk is reduced by immunosup-
absent. The disease remains dormant, and will pression.
reappear. Rendu-Osler-Weber disease Polycythemia vera.
remittent The pathological state which lessens in renifleur One who is erotically stimulated by the
intensity, then exacerbates — repeatedly, in urine of others.
some diseases. reniform Nephroid, kidney-shaped.
remnant A retained portion. repellent An agent which rejects organisms.
remodeling Reconstruction, reshaping, revision repercussion That which is reciprocal. A rever-
— as in plastic surgery, bone resorption. beration. Obstetrical ballottement.
renal In reference to the kidney(s). replantation Surgical reimplantation of an acci-
acute renal failure That caused by trauma, dentally severed/separated portion of the body.
impaired renal circulation, disordered function- repletion Satiety, satisfaction.
ing, pathology, toxicology, et al. The patient
should be assessed for anemia, gastrointestinal replication Duplicated genetic cells, tissues.
hemorrhage, hypotension, and pericarditis. Repetition of a medical trial in research.
(Atheroembolic renal disease can masquerade
as endocarditis or vasculitis.) Peritoneal dialy- repolarization That re-establishment of the elec-
sis/renal dialysis is the therapy of choice. trical charge in muscles/nerves, following the
distal renal tubular acidosis That kidney dis- conduction and/or contraction of a nerve
ease which makes the blood too acidic. This impulse.
pediatric condition affects growth and mortality,
and must be treated early, if renal damage is to report An overview of unit or patient status,
given to those with accountability to know.

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charge to charge report The off-going and on- clinical research Those findings principally

coming charge nurses' account to the entire based on the objective observation of the

nursing staff, describing each patient's room patient. The parameters of these studies are

number, full name, diagnosis, physician, and strict, and the findings often published.

condition update. (Tape-recorded reports are double blind technique That research protocol

unsatisfactory in that they permit no clarification in which prejudicial bias is eliminated, because

nor confirmation.) The supervisor and physician neither the clinicians nor subjects knows

are extended the courtesy of reports pertinent to whether or not one is receiving the medica-

their needs, and may receive these as walking tion/modality being tested, or a placebo. At the

rounds — visiting each bedside of the more conclusion of the study (or earlier if medically

critical patients. indicated), the blind is broken and unknown

reportable diseases Those which the United variables revealed. If it should become neces-

States Department of Health requires be report- sary to prematurely break the blind, the subject

ed by the attending physician (or professionals will not be returned to the study.

providing care on his/her behalf.) Any other dis- resection Partial excision of a body part or

ease which is unusual in circumstance, epidem- organ.

ic, or incidence, or of a public health concern reserve Self-control. Storage.

must also be revealed. Its health registry also reservoir A storage place for body fluids.

receives and reviews data on carcinoma of all reservoir of infectiousagents All carriers of an

categories. infectious agent, upon whom it is dependent for

repositioning Restoration of tissue to its survival and where it reproduces.

anatomical, correct, and/or new position. residual That which remains. That psychological

mandibular repositioning Alteration of the after-effect which influences later behavior.

mandible to allow it to rest in alignment with the residual function That capacity/functioning

maxilla — thereby correcting malocclusion which remains following an injury or incapacit-

and/or other maxillomandibular anomalies. ing illness.

muscle repositioning The surgical re-insertion residual urine Following voiding, the patient is

of a muscle attachment to facilitate functioning. catherized. Urine which is obtained is a patho-

repositor That surgical instrument which logic finding, is measured, and reported.

restores an organ/tissue to its normal or cor- residue Residuum, remainder — that which per-

rected positioning. sists following partial removal.

inversion repositor That instrument which cor- resilience Elasticity.

rects an inverted uterus. res ipsa loquitur That malpractice concept in

uterine repositor That which relocates the mal- which the professional holds liability. "The thing

positioned uterus. speaks for itself."

repression Psychiatric refusal to consider resistance Opposition, immunity — avoidanceof

painful/distressing material. This may be sub- conflict.

consciously denied/buried and negatively affects resistance transfer factor That which controls

the patient. Psychiatric/psychological counseling immunity to drugs — which allows the condi-

seeks to reveal and release each repressive tions for an epidemic.

issue. resolution Absorption, decomposition, return to

reproduction Propagation of the species. normal.

repulsion An intense, emotional rejection. resolvent That which reduces swelling/inflamma-

research Diligent, scientific experimentation, tion.

investigation, and study, joined with meticulous resonance That sound heard upon percussion.

recording of orderly data. If this has been pre- (The absenceof resonance is flatness.)

cisely-enough recorded that it can be repeated, Diminished resonance is termed "dullness".

it is judged by the scientific community to be resorbent An agent which enhances the

acceptable. absorbency of sedimentation or other abnormal

341

features. ing, wheal formation (in that order).
resorption Removal by absorption, lysis, or other unconditioned response An inherent reaction
which has not been learned.
pathological process(es). rest Freedom from mental/physical activity, in an
respiration The interchange between an organ- environment away from work.
resting hand splint A brace which positions the
ism and its gaseous environment — which may fingers in opposition, and supports the hand in
be abdominal, absent, accelerated, aeorbic, a position of function.
amphoric, anaerobic, apneustic, artificial, Biot's, restitutio ad integrum Restoration to complete
Cheyne-Stokes, cogwheel, costal, decreased, health.
diaphragmatic, direct, electrophrenic, external, restitution That return to a former state. Turning
fetal, forced, internal, interrupted, intrauterine, the delivering fetal head following its emer-
Kussmaul's, labored, paradoxical, periodic, pla- gence.
cental, slow, stertorous, stridulous, thoracic. restless legs syndrome A lesser form of
respirator A mechanical instrument which aids akathisia — that intolerable sensation of the
breathing by supplying positive pressure to the skin crawling, in which it is impossible for the
lungs continuously/intermittently. patient to keep his/her legs still — especially
respiratory arrest Failure to breathe. when at rest. A side effect of medications (espe-
respiratory distress syndrome of the premature cially psychotropics), this may be more preva-
infant (RDS) Hyaline membrane impairment of lent in fatigue states. (The torment has driven
the breathing function, which is life-threatening. some psychiatric patients to suicide.) Of
respiratory failure Acute inability of the lungs to unknown etiology, this distress has also been
breathe, caused by obstruction or impairment. noted in renal colic.
Chronic interference which results in pulmonary restoration Return to the original state.
insufficiency — whatever the cause. restraint Confinement from mental/physical loss
respiratory insufficiency An inadequate of control, upon doctor's orders, to prevent
exchange of gases. injury by the patient to him-/herself and others.
respiratory myoclonus Leeuwenhoek'sdisease. (These patients can have superhuman strength
respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) RSV bronchi- — even if female or juvenile.) At all times, the
olitis — the major cause of acute pediatric res- form of restraint selected should be the least
piratory disease. Sometimes nosocomial, this restrictive possible, but which affords the
viral infection of the lower respiratory tract is required, essential protection. Methods chosen
serious in the infant patient. Beyond supportive by the physician may include physician-ordered
care, treatment includes antipyretics, intra- chemical (medical), mechanical (leather), and/or
venous (IV) hydration, bronchodilators, and solitary confinement (to reduce stimuli and to
oxygenation as indicated. shield the patient from the view/hearing of oth-
response That reaction to a stimulus. ers). These orders specify the amount of time,
anamnestic response A rapid antibody reaction and are renewed daily. Approved protocol and
following exposure to an antigen — toward meticulous checking of these patients is con-
which the subject was previously immune. firmed by flow sheets and other charting
galvanic skin response That electrical resis- records, as well as by RN supervision.
tance of the skin in reaction to emotional stimu- resuscitation Anabiosis — revival following
lus. apparent death.
inflammatory response A localized reaction cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) That
elicited by tissue destruction/injury character- reversal of cardiac/respiratory standstill, by
ized by the classic signs — edema, erythema, mechanical intervention. Nurses in the United
heat, loss of function, pain. States are required to update their CPR status
reticulocyte response Increased production of annually.
the reticulocytes, reactive to hematinics. Heimlich maneuver Rhythmic diaphragmatic
triple response Those phases of vasomotor
reaction to scraping the skin — redness, flush-

342

compressions in an attempt to dislodge an monocytes originating in glandular/lymphatic
obstruction in the airway. tissue.
Heimlich maneuver for the drowning Approval retina The light-sensitive lining of the eye, upon
has now been awarded to Henry Heimlich, MD which light rays are focused, and sight is per-
to include this indication for his award-winning ceived.
technique. retinal correspondence Those stimulated points
retardation Pathological mental and/or physical which result in a single visual sensation.
delays, due to pathology. Imbalanced ocular muscles produce diplopia.
retching Attempting to vomit without emesis. retinal detachment That partial/complete separa-
retention That which is held or kept in place. tion of the retina from the pigment epithelium,
urinary retention Following voiding, that resid- resulting in loss of function (sight). The classic
ual urine which is obtained per catheter. Both symptom is black floaters in the line of vision.
amounts are to be measured and recorded. This emergency must be seen STAT, in hopes
retention cyst That created by a gland's inability that it may be surgically reversed by laser.
to secrete/excrete. retinitis Inflammation of the retina resulting in
retention defect Recent memory lapses — altered size of visual objects, diminished vision,
which are anterograde. photophobia, scotomata. During treatment, both
retention enemata That which anesthetizes, of the patient's eyes should be shielded from
medicates (a cortisone enema, et al.), lubricates light and kept at strict rest.
the mucosae, or nourishes the patient. actinic retinitis That caused by radiation, or
Retention enemata are small in volume, and are exposure to intense light rays.
not to be expelled. albuminuric retinitis That caused by malignant
reticular That which is enmeshed. A network, hypertension/chronic kidney disease.
reticulum. apoplectic retinitis Inflammation due to retinal
reticular activating system (RAS) That area of hemorrhage.
the brain which initiates and maintains alert- diabetic retinitis Aneurysmal dilatation of the
ness. Many drugs inactivate this system. retinal vessels with hemorrhage and waxy/cot-
reticulocytosis Reticulosis, familial histiocytic ton-wool exudates. Blindness ensues for many
reticulosis. That form of lymphoma character- of these diabetics.
ized by anemia, granulocytopenia, exogenous purulent retinitis That secondary to
hepatomegaly, lymph node hypertrophy, with an infected, perforated ocular wound.
phagocytosis of the erythrocytes. This may be exudative retinitis Chronic retinal inflammation
seen following hemorrhage, during acclimatiza- with tissue elevation around the optic disk.
tion (high), and pernicious anemia therapy. hemorrhagic retinitis Profound bleeding into
reticuloendothelial system (RES) The mononu- the retina(e).
clear phagocyte system. Those cells which have metastatic retinitis Infective emboli which seed
the capacity to digest colloidal/bacterial cells. acute purulent infection to the retinal vessels.
Fixed reticuloendothelial cells may travel to solar retinitis Damage caused by exposure to
eliminate older cells, to repair damaged tissue, an eclipse, by unprotected eyes and retinae.
to defend the body, to participate in immunity stellate retinitis That presenting with blurring
through inflammation. of the optic disk, exudates, formation of a
reticuloendothelioma Reticuloma — that starred figure encircling the macula, and hemor-
tumor/neoplasm composed of reticulocytes. rhage.
reticulohistiocytoma The giant cell granulomacy- suppurative retinitis That characterized by sep-
tosis which invades dermal tissue, long bone ticemia.
synovial membrane, mucous membrane. syphilitic retinitis That secondary to contami-
reticulopenia A decrease in circulating reticulo- nation by syphilis.
cytes. syphilitic neuroretinitis Sexually transmitted
reticulosarcoma That tumor composed of large disease which includes optic nerve involvement.

343

retinitis pigmentosa (RP) That progressive pedi- retinopathy of prematurity Retrolental fibroplasia

atric defect which is characterized by degenera- — retinal detachment attributed to excessive

tion without inflammation. Atrophy of the optic oxygenation of these fragile premies. Many of

nerve and pigmentary changes may be noted these cases result in malpractice suits.

within the retina. Defective night vision may pre- retinoscopy Skiascopy — the objective examina-

cede a constricted field of vision. Neither etiolo- tion of refraction used with infants and patients

gy nor optimal therapy is known. unable to cooperate with this procedure.

retinitis proliferans Vascularized connective tis- retinosis Degeneration of the retina in the

sue resulting from retinal hemorrhaging into the absence of an inflammatory process.

vitreous humor. retractile Tissue with the capacity of being

retinitis punctata albescens Early in life, a retracted, drawn in, drawn back.

degenerative, familial, nonprogressivedisease retraction Shortening, drawing in or back.

may appear. This causes white spots to arise clot retraction That shrinking of a blood clot.

throughout the retinae. Pigmentary changes will uterine retraction That process by which the

be absent. muscular fibers shorten permanently, following

retinoblastoma An inherited, malignant glioma a labor contraction.

of the retina. This unilateral finding may present retractor A surgical instrument which holds back

as the "cat's eye" reflex — a pupillary light the edges of the surgical wound. A muscle

reflection immediately recognizableupon which draws in a body part/organ.

assessment. Treated predominantly by enucle- retreat Withdrawal (direct/indirect).

ation (a compound tragedy in the rare child retrenchment A plastic surgical procedure which

whose involvement was found to be bilateral), excises superfluous tissue.

conservative management has been saving the retrieval Psychiatric repression.

sight and lives of pediatric victims who are not retroactive Reversal of action.Retrocedence.

advanced cases. Becausethis tumor is highly retroauricular Situated behind the ear(s).

metastatic, enucleation should be performed if retrobulbar That located behind the orbit, poste-

there is no hope of useful sight being retained. rior to the medulla oblongata.

retinodialysis Disinsertion — peripheral retinal retrocession A relapse. Metastasis to an internal

detachment. organ. An abnormal uterine position.

retinopapillitis Papilloretinitis — inflammation retroclusion That method of halting arterial hem-

of the optic papilla(e) and retina(e). orrhage. Compression of the vessel is achieved

retinopathy Any retinal pathology, anomaly. by inserting a needle through tissue over the

arteriosclerotic retinopathy Arteriosclerosis severed artery. This is turned around and down,

and hypertension accompanying retinal patholo- then passed through the tissues beneath the

gy- corresponding artery.

diabetic retinopathy Most diabeticsdevelop retrocolic Referringto the back of the colon.

some level of retinal pathology — which could retrocollic Regarding the back of the neck.

lead to blindness. If the diabetic is noncompliant retrocollic spasm Torticollis with spasms of the

with his/her prescribed protocol and regimen, posterior neck muscles.

he/she is at serious risk of multiple complica- retrocursive Turning/stepping backwards.

tions. Patient teaching is essential. retrodeviation The backward displacement of an

hypertensive retinopathy That secondary to organ.

glomerulonephritis, hypertension, toxemia of retrodisplacement That backward dislocation of

pregnancy. a part.

solar retinopathy That retinal damage/blind- retroflexion Bending backwards.

ness which results from looking directly into the retrognathism That position of the mandible

sun/eclipse. posterior to the frontal plane of the maxilla.

syphilitic retinopathy Retinal pathology seen in retrograde A degenerated status — that which is

the end stages of this venereal disease. reversed.