Health theory vocab list 1

Physician

Licensed doctor who diagnoses and treats illnesses and injuries.

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Advanced practice registered nurse who can diagnose, prescribe, and manage patient care.

Physician Assistant (PA)

Licensed clinician who practices medicine under the supervision of a physician, including diagnosis and treatment.

Registered Nurse (RN)

Provides and coordinates patient care, educates patients, and supports families.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Helps patients with daily activities like bathing, feeding, and mobility, under RN supervision.

Surgeon

Physician who specializes in performing operations to treat disease, injury, or deformities.

Radiologic Technologist

Performs imaging procedures such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.

Phlebotomist

Trained to draw blood samples for tests, transfusions, or donations.

Pharmacist

Prepares, dispenses, and counsels patients on medications.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

First responder who provides urgent medical care and transports patients.

Paramedic (EMT-P)

Advanced EMT who can provide complex pre-hospital care such as IVs, advanced airway management, and medications.

Medical Laboratory Technician

Analyzes samples of blood, tissue, and other body fluids to help diagnose diseases.

Occupational Therapist (OT)

Helps patients develop or regain skills for daily living and working.

Physical Therapist (PT)

Helps patients improve movement, manage pain, and recover from injuries or surgeries.

Speech-Language Pathologist

Diagnoses and treats communication and swallowing disorders.

Respiratory Therapist

Specializes in treating patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.