Ch. 12
Database
: An organized collection of information entered into specific areas called fields.
Exercise stress test
: An ECG run while the patient is exercising (on a treadmill or bike) to evaluate the function of the heart during activity.
Electronic mail
: The use of a network or the Internet to communicate with other health care personnel, agencies, or patients.
Fields
: The specific areas within a database where information (such as name or address) is entered.
File
: A group of related records combined within a database; for example, all patient records in a dental office.
Firewalls
: Security software used to protect a computer network from unauthorized access.
Echocardiogram
: A test that uses ultrahigh-frequency sound waves to create a computer-generated image of the heart to evaluate cardiac function and structures.
Computer literacy
: A basic understanding of how a computer works and the applications used in your specific field or profession.
Ergonomics
: An applied science used to promote an individual's safety and well-being by adapting the environment and using techniques to prevent injuries.
Mainframe computer
: A very large computer that can process vast amounts of data and control major systems.
Nuclear stress test
: A test where a small amount of a radioactive substance is injected to help a camera evaluate which parts of the heart are healthy and functioning normally.
Electrocardiogram
(ECG): A computerized system that produces visual pictures and printouts of the electrical activity of the heart to assist in diagnosing heart disease.
Radiation therapy
: The use of high-energy radiation (often guided by computer technology) to treat cancer.
Dobutamine stress test
: A cardiac test for patients who cannot exercise; a medication (dobutamine) is given to increase blood flow and heart rate to determine how the heart responds to stress.
Magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI): A body-scanning method that uses magnetic fields and hydrogen atom activity rather than radiation to produce cross-sectional images.
Computerized tomography
(CT): A noninvasive, computerized X-ray that permits physicians to see clear, cross-sectional views of both bone and body tissues.
Image-guided surgery
(IGS): A surgical procedure where the surgeon uses real-time computer images to guide instruments precisely.
Computer-aided design
(CAD): (Listed in source) Software used to create precision drawings or technical models.
Electronic health record
(EHR): A computerized version of a patient's medical information, including history, medications, and tests, that can be shared across agencies.
Health information exchange
(HIE): A national network that allows health care agencies to transfer patient electronic health records (EHRs) between agencies.
Uninterrupted power supply
(UPS): A backup power system that provides electricity to a computer when the main power source fails.
Adenosine stress test
: A cardiac test for patients who cannot exercise; a medication (adenosine) is given to simulate the effect of exercise by increasing blood flow and heart rate.
Positron emission tomography
(PET): An imaging test where a radioactive tracer is injected to create a 3-D image used to detect cancer or heart disease.
Ultrasonography
A noninvasive scanning method that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of internal organs or a fetus.
Computer-assisted instruction
(CAI): Educational tools used for teaching health care professionals, such as nurses and physicians, often via simulators or web conferences.