Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.1
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4 Medical Terminology Language used by health care workers Includes specialized terms, abbreviations, and symbols Precise terms prevent confusion and error Do not use when communicating with patients
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.5 Building Blocks Root –Refers to structure and function of the body Combining Form –Root plus vowel
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.6 Building Blocks Combining Vowel –Links root to next element –Usually “o,” but can be “a,” “e,” “i,” or “u”
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.7 Building Blocks Suffix –Attaches to end of roots and combining forms Prefix –Attaches to beginning of roots and combining forms
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.8 Building Blocks
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.9 Deciphering Medical Terms Start from right and work left –Identify meaning of the suffix –Identify meaning of the root –Identify meaning of the prefix (if there is one)
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.10 Example Cardiology –Suffix “-ology” means “study of” –Root “cardi” means “heart” –Prefix – none in this word –Meaning Study of the heart
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.11 Example Polyarthritis –Suffix “-itis” mean “inflammation” –Root “arthr” means “joint” –Prefix “poly” means “many, much” –Meaning Inflammation of many joints
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.12 Spelling and Pronunciation Accuracy is critical Some words sound the same but they are spelled differently One letter can completely change the meaning Memorize pronunciation and plural form guides
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.13 Medical Abbreviations and Symbols Shorthand Many are common, others vary Use only those listed on the facility’s approved list If not on facility’s approved list, it cannot be used
Copyright © 2007 by Thomson Delmar Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.14 Aids to Learning Purchase a medical dictionary Choose one that will be most helpful to your individual needs Use study habits to build upon your learning style –Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic