Unit 2 Vocab

Module 6 Vocabulary Notes

Cardiovascular Terminology

  • Diastole:

    • Definition: The phase between the contraction of the heart and the filling of the ventricles with blood.

  • Diastolic Blood Pressure:

    • Definition: The resting pressure exerted by blood on the arteries between each cardiac contraction.

  • Hypertension:

    • Definition: The condition of having elevated blood pressure, specifically when the readings are over 130/80 mmHg.

  • Hypotension:

    • Definition: The condition of having decreased blood pressure, specifically when the readings fall below 90/60 mmHg.

  • Korotkoff Sounds:

    • Definition: Audible sounds that are used to determine blood pressure during measurement.

  • Orthostatic Hypertension:

    • Definition: A decrease in blood pressure that occurs within three minutes of standing up from a sitting or lying position, characterized by a drop of 20 mmHg in systolic or 10 mmHg in diastolic pressure.

  • Sphygmomanometer:

    • Definition: A device, commonly known as a blood pressure cuff, used to measure blood pressure.

  • Systole:

    • Definition: The phase of the heartbeat when the left ventricle contracts and pumps blood into the arteries.

  • Systolic Blood Pressure:

    • Definition: The maximum pressure exerted by blood on the arteries during the contraction of the left ventricle.

  • Hyperthermia:

    • Definition: A medical condition characterized by an abnormally high body temperature, specifically above 100.4 \, \text{°F} (approximately 38 \, \text{°C}).

  • Hypothermia:

    • Definition: A medical condition defined by dangerously low body temperature, specifically below 95 \, \text{°F} (approximately 35 \, \text{°C}).

  • Sinus Bradycardia:

    • Definition: A resting heart rate that is below 60 beats per minute (bpm).

  • Sinus Tachycardia:

    • Definition: A resting heart rate that exceeds 100 beats per minute (bpm).

  • Bounding Pulse:

    • Definition: An unusually strong, forceful, and rapid heartbeat that can be felt in an artery.

  • Thready Pulse:

    • Definition: A weak, fine, and barely palpable pulse.

  • Pulse Pressure:

    • Definition: The force of the arteries during each heartbeat, calculated as the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

  • Pulse Deficit:

    • Definition: A condition where the apical pulse (heartbeats measured at the apex of the heart) is faster than the radial pulse (heartbeats measured at the wrist).

Respiratory Terminology

  • Stethoscope:

    • Definition: A medical instrument used for auscultation that typically has a dual-sided chest piece consisting of:

    • Diaphragm: The larger, flat side used for listening to higher-frequency sounds.

    • Bell: The smaller, cup-shaped side used for listening to lower-frequency sounds.

  • Doppler Device:

    • Definition: A non-invasive medical device used to measure blood flow speed and direction through vessels.

  • Bradypnea:

    • Definition: A condition characterized by abnormally slow breathing, specifically defined as fewer than 12 breaths per minute.

  • Tachypnea:

    • Definition: A condition characterized by rapid, shallow breathing, specifically defined as more than 20 breaths per minute.

  • Cheyne-Stokes:

    • Definition: An abnormal breathing pattern characterized by cycles of increasing and then decreasing breathing effort and rhythm.

  • Kussmaul Respirations:

    • Definition: A deep, rapid, and labored breathing pattern often associated with severe metabolic acidosis or other serious medical conditions.

  • Brachial Pulse:

    • Definition: The pulsation of blood felt in the brachial artery, typically located near the elbow crease.

  • Radial Pulse:

    • Definition: The pulsation of blood felt in the radial artery, which can be found at the wrist on the thumb side.

Cardiac Conditions and Symptoms

  • Atrial Fibrillation:

    • Definition: Irregular heartbeat that is typically fast.

    • Implications: Increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

  • Dyspnea:

    • Definition: Shortness of breath experienced by individuals.

  • Orthopnea:

    • Definition: Shortness of breath that occurs when lying flat, relieved by sitting up.

  • Syncope:

    • Definition: Temporary loss of consciousness due to a lack of blood flow to the brain.

  • Palpitations:

    • Definition: Sensation of feeling the heartbeat, which can indicate an underlying issue such as arrhythmia.

  • Peripheral Edema:

    • Definition: Swelling due to the accumulation of fluid in the body's peripheral areas.

    • Example: Swelling in the legs or ankles.

  • Pitting Edema:

    • Definition: Accumulated fluid that leaves an indentation when pressed.

  • Jugular Vein Distension (JVD):

    • Definition: Increased pressure in the superior vena cava leading to bulging of the jugular vein on the right side of the neck, which can indicate right heart failure.

Sounds and Physical Signs

  • Bruit:

    • Definition: A swishing sound heard when auscultating the carotid artery, indicating turbulent blood flow.

  • Murmur:

    • Definition: A blowing or whooshing sound of the precordium, usually signifying turbulent blood flow in the heart.

  • Pleural Friction Rub:

    • Definition: An abnormal, creaking sound occurring during inhalation and exhalation, indicative of lung pathology.

  • Friction Rub:

    • Definition: An abnormal, grating sound from inflamed membranous surfaces rubbing together.

  • Heave or Lift:

    • Definition: A palpable lifting sensation felt under the sternum and anterior chest wall, which can indicate cardiac hypertrophy or other underlying issues.

Circulatory Terms

  • Perfusion:

    • Definition: The amount of blood flow to tissue, crucial for delivering oxygen and nutrients.

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):

    • Definition: A blood clot that forms in a deep vein, often in the legs.

  • Pulmonary Embolism:

    • Definition: A condition where a blood clot lodges in one of the arteries in the lungs.

Heart Anatomy and Functions

  • Precordium:

    • Definition: The region of the thorax in front of the heart.

  • Apical Pulse:

    • Definition: The heartbeat that can be heard or felt at the apex of the heart, usually assessed for rhythm and rate.

  • Atrioventricular Valves:

    • Definition: Heart flaps that control blood flow from the atria to the ventricles.

    • Tricuspid Valve: Controls blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle.

    • Mitral Valve: Controls blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle.

  • Semilunar Valves:

    • Definition: These are the valves controlling blood flow out of the heart.

    • Pulmonic Valve: Controls blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery.

    • Aortic Valve: Controls blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta.

  • Systole:

    • Definition: The phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscles contract, leading to the ejection of blood from the heart chambers.

  • Diastole:

    • Definition: The phase when the heart muscles relax, allowing the heart chambers to fill with blood.

Cardiac Sounds and Timing

  • S1 (First Heart Sound):

    • Occurs with the closure of the mitral and tricuspid valves, marking the beginning of systole.

  • S2 (Second Heart Sound):

    • Occurs with the closure of the aortic and pulmonic valves, marking the end of systole.

  • Orthostatic Hypotension:

    • Definition: A sudden, excessive drop in blood pressure that occurs when transitioning from sitting or lying down to standing.

Blood Pressure Measurement

  • Sphygmomanometer:

    • Definition: A tool used for measuring blood pressure, typically involving an inflatable rubber cuff around the arm.

Peripheral Pulses

  • Carotid Pulse:

    • Definition: The pulse felt on the side of the neck.

  • Popliteal Pulse:

    • Definition: The pulsation felt at the popliteal artery, located behind the knee.

  • Posterior Tibial Pulse:

    • Definition: The pulsation felt on the inner side of the ankle.

  • Dorsalis Pedis Pulse:

    • Definition: The pulsation felt on the top of the foot.

  • Femoral Pulse:

    • Definition: The pulsation felt in the groin area, in the crease where the thigh meets the abdomen.

  • Apical Pulse:

    • Definition: The pulse located at the apex of the heart, which reflects the heart's rhythm and rate more directly than peripheral pulses.

Module 8 Vocabulary

Key Terminology Related to Respiratory Function

  • Accessory muscles:

    • Definition: Muscles other than the diaphragm and intercostal muscles used for labored breathing that become engaged during periods of increased respiratory demand.

  • Apnea:

    • Definition: The absence of respirations or cessation of breathing, which can occur for various reasons, including obstructive events or central nervous system issues.

  • Atelectasis:

    • Definition: A condition characterized by the collapse of part or all of a lung, leading to no air movement in the affected alveoli.

  • Barrel-chested:

    • Definition: A physical trait where the anterior-posterior (AP) diameter of the chest is equal to the transverse diameter, commonly observed in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), primarily due to lung hyperinflation.

  • Bradypnea:

    • Definition: An abnormal respiratory pattern identified as slow breathing, typically defined as a respiratory rate less than the normal range for the patient's age.

  • Bronchial breath sounds:

    • Definition: High-pitched, hollow sounds typically heard over the trachea and larynx during auscultation, indicating normal airflow through the tracheobronchial system.

  • Bronchovesicular sounds:

    • Definition: A mixture of high and low-pitched sounds commonly heard over the major bronchi during auscultation, usually indicating normal air movement in the larger airway structures.

  • Clubbing:

    • Definition: A deformity of the fingers and nails in which the fingernails curve around the fingertips, often indicative of chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

  • Crackles:

    • Definition: Also referred to as "rales", these are abnormal lung sounds that resemble popping or crackling noises during inspiration, typically due to fluid or mucus in the airways.

  • Crepitus:

    • Definition: A clinical sign where air becomes trapped beneath the subcutaneous tissue, creating a popping or crackling sensation noted during palpation.

  • Cyanosis:

    • Definition: A bluish discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes indicating insufficient oxygenation of the blood.

  • Dyspnea:

    • Definition: A medical term for difficulty or discomfort in breathing, often experienced during exercise or at rest in patients with respiratory diseases.

  • Hemoptysis:

    • Definition: The expectoration of blood or blood-stained mucus from the respiratory tract, often suggesting underlying pulmonary issues.

  • Hypercapnia:

    • Definition: A condition characterized by elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, which can occur due to respiratory failure or hypoventilation.

  • Hypoxemia:

    • Definition: A state of decreased levels of oxygen within the blood, often leading to tissue hypoxia if untreated.

Additional Vocabulary Relevant to Pathology and Assessments

  • Kyphosis:

    • Definition: An outward curvature of the thoracic spine, potentially affecting respiratory function due to alteration in chest wall mechanics.

  • Orthopnea:

    • Definition: A sensation of breathlessness or discomfort while lying in a recumbent position, typically relieved by sitting up. This phenomenon is common in heart failure and other pulmonary conditions.

  • Pallor:

    • Definition: A reduction in oxyhemoglobin concentration in the skin or mucous membranes, resulting in a pale appearance, which can indicate hypoxia or anemia.

  • Rales:

    • Definition: Another term for crackles, considered abnormal lung sounds heard during auscultation of the lungs.

  • Respiration:

    • Definition: The physiological process involving ventilation and gas exchange at the level of the alveoli, where blood is oxygenated, and carbon dioxide is expelled.

  • Retractions:

    • Definition: The inward movement of muscles between the ribs or in the neck during inspiration, indicative of respiratory distress or obstruction.

  • Stridor:

    • Definition: A high-pitched crowing sound produced during inspiration, heard over the upper airway and larynx, often indicating an airway obstruction that requires immediate attention.

  • Tachypnea:

    • Definition: The condition marked by rapid and often shallow breathing with a respiratory rate greater than the normal range for a given patient's age.

  • Ventilation:

    • Definition: The mechanical process of moving air into and out of the lungs, essential for gas exchange.

  • Vesicular sounds:

    • Definition: Soft, low-pitched sounds resembling the sound of rustling leaves, heard over the alveoli and small bronchial airways, indicative of normal breathing.

  • Wheeze:

    • Definition: A high-pitched whistling sound produced during expiration or inspiration, typically associated with bronchoconstriction or bronchospasm.

  • FiO2:

    • Definition: The fraction of inspired oxygen, which refers to the concentration of oxygen in the air a person is breathing. It is critical for managing oxygen therapy to avoid lung injury.

  • Hypoxia:

    • Definition: A term indicating reduced levels of tissue oxygenation; it can lead to various physiological impairments.

Terms Related to Sleep Apnea and Monitoring Techniques

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):

    • Definition: A sleep disorder characterized by repeated occurrences of partial or complete obstructions of the upper airway during sleep, leading to apnea events and possible hypoxemia.

  • PaO2:

    • Definition: The partial pressure of oxygen dissolved in arterial blood; a crucial measure in assessing respiratory function and oxygenation status.

  • SpO2:

    • Definition: The percentage of hemoglobin saturation with oxygen, measured non-invasively using pulse oximetry, critical for monitoring a patient’s oxygenation.

  • Adventitious sounds:

    • Definition: Abnormal lung sounds detected during auscultation that are not typically present, indicating underlying respiratory conditions.

  • Cough/Deep Breath:

    • Definition: A protective reflex action involving deep inhalation followed by the closure of the glottis and an explosive expulsion of air to clear the airways.

  • Incentive Spirometer:

    • Definition: A handheld medical device designed to promote deep breathing exercises, improve lung capacity, and prevent pulmonary complications, especially post-surgery.

  • Peak Flow:

    • Definition: A measurement indicating how fast a person can exhale air from the lungs, often used to monitor conditions like asthma.

  • Pulse Oximetry:

    • Definition: A non-invasive, painless, and rapid technique to monitor the arterial oxygen saturation levels in the blood.

  • Nasal Cannula:

    • Definition: A lightweight, flexible device used to deliver supplemental oxygen through the nostrils.

  • Simple Face Mask:

    • Definition: A disposable device that covers the patient's nose and mouth to administer supplemental oxygen, facilitating a direct source of oxygen for the patient.

  • Venturi Mask:

    • Definition: A high-flow oxygen delivery device designed to provide precise concentrations of oxygen, typically used in patients requiring mechanical ventilation.

  • Non-Rebreather Mask:

    • Definition: An emergency medical device that allows for the delivery of a high concentration of oxygen for patients in acute respiratory distress.

  • Pleural Friction Rub:

    • Definition: An abnormal, creaking sound detected through a stethoscope during inhalation and exhalation, indicating inflammation of the pleura.

  • Percussion:

    • Definition: A diagnostic technique involving the tapping of the chest wall to assess underlying structures based on their resonance and density.

  • Auscultation:

    • Definition: The practice of listening to internal body sounds, particularly those of the heart and lungs, as part of a physical examination.

  • Symmetric Expansion:

    • Definition: A clinical term referring to equal and simultaneous outward movement of both sides of the chest wall during respiration.

  • Tactile Fremitus:

    • Definition: A palpable vibration felt on the patient's chest wall as they speak, used to assess lung health and detect abnormalities.

Module 9 Vocabulary

Key Terms and Definitions

  • Borborygmus:

    • Description: Hyperperistalsis, commonly referred to as "stomach growling".

  • Dysphagia:

    • Definition: Difficulty swallowing.

  • Guarding:

    • Type: Can be voluntary or involuntary.

    • Description: Tensing of the abdominal wall muscles to protect inflamed underlying organs from pain while pressure is applied.

  • Hematochezia:

    • Definition: Passage of bloody stool.

  • Hematemesis:

    • Description: Blood-tinged mucus secretions originating from the lungs.

  • Hyperactive bowel sounds:

    • Description: Increased peristaltic activity.

    • Associated Conditions: Related to diarrhea, obstruction, or digestion of a meal.

  • Hypoactive bowel sounds:

    • Description: Decreased peristaltic activity.

    • Associated Conditions: Often observed in constipation, following abdominal surgery or with an ileus.

  • Melena:

    • Description: Stool that is dark in color and tarry.

  • Protuberant:

    • Definition: A convex or bulging appearance of the abdomen.

  • Rebound tenderness:

    • Definition: Pain experienced upon withdrawal of the hand during palpation, indicating possible peritoneal irritation.

  • Rigidity:

    • Description: Involuntary contraction of the abdominal musculature, typically in response to peritoneal inflammation.

  • Scaphoid:

    • Description: A sunken appearance of the abdomen indicating possible underlying conditions.

  • Striae:

    • Description: White or silver markings on the skin resulting from stretching.

  • Umbilicus:

    • Definition: Commonly known as the navel or "belly button".

  • Hernia:

    • Definition: Protrusion of an organ or intestine through a weak spot, defect, or tear in surrounding muscle wall or connective tissue.

Additional Vocabulary

  • Bowel Sounds:

    • Description: Gurgling noises produced by the intestines as they move food and fluid via peristalsis.

  • Vascular sounds:

    • Description: Abnormal "whooshing" or blowing sounds, known as bruit, heard with a stethoscope over an artery.

  • Tympany:

    • Description: A hollow, drum-like sound produced during percussion of the abdomen.

  • Ascites:

    • Definition: Abnormal buildup of serous fluid within the peritoneal cavity.

  • Abdominal distension:

    • Definition: A visible, measured increase in abdominal girth, different from the subjective feeling of bloating.

  • Light palpation:

    • Description: A physical examination technique involving gentle pressure applied to the abdomen.

  • Deep palpation:

    • Description: A physical examination technique that involves firm, deliberate pressure applied during assessment of abdominal organs.