DHO chapter 12: Computer Technology in Health Care

central processing unit (CPU)

processes the input and performs the operations of the computer by following the instructions in the software

computer literacy

a basic understanding of how the computer works and a basic understanding of the applications used in your field or profession.

computer-assisted instruction (CAI)

educational computer programming designed for individualized use.

computerized tomography (CT)

medical imaging scanner that uses x-rays to see cross sectional views of the body tissues

database

is an organized collection of information

echocardiograph

utilizes a computer to direct ultrahigh frequency sound waves through the chest wall and into the heart

electronic mail

the process of creating and sending messaged from one computer to another

fields

information is entered into these areas

hardware

the machine components including the keyboard, central processing unit, disk drive, and monitor

input

information that is entered into a computer by means of an input device

internet

links millions of computers throughout the world

magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

body scanner that uses nuclear magnetic resonance

mainframe computer

can control the launching of a rocket to outer space

microcomputer

a handheld computer

networks

systems of computers linked together

output

the processed information, or final product; it can be displayed on a screen printed as hard copy, stored on magnetic tape or disks, or transmitted to another user or users

personal computer

computer that can sit on a desktop

positron emission tomography (PET)

body scanner that uses a radioactive substance which is injected into the patient and detected by the scanner

random access memory (RAM)

a program that is not permanent because data can be stored, changed, and retrieved

read only memory (ROM)

a permanent program already built and stored in the computer system by the manufacturer of the computer

record

within a database, each collection of related information

software

consist of programs that allow the computer to perform specific tasks

spreadsheet

uses special software to access a computer's ability to perform math calculations

stress test

an ECG run while the patient is exercising

telemedicine

involves the use of video, audio, and computer systems to provide medical services

Telepharmacies

allow for rapid dispensing of medications

ultrasonography

noninvasive scanning method using high frequency sound waves

file

a group of related records that have been combined together

Firewall

a software program or hardware device designed to prevent anauthorized access to a computer system.

image-guided surgery

a surgical procedure in which a surgeon uses preoperative and intraoperative images to guide or direct the surgery.

lasers

Lights beams that can be focused precisely.

radiation therapy

The use of high-energy particles to decrease the size of tumors and treat cancer.

robotic surgery

Performing surgery with a mechanical device that is computer controlled.

uniterrupted power supply

A device that provides battery backup when the electrical power fails or drops to an unacceptable level.

viruses

Programs that contain instructions to alter the operation of computer programs, erase or scramble data on the computer, and/or allwo access to information on the computer.