Ch. 12 Computers and Technology in Health Care
Adenosine stress test:
A test used for patients who cannot exercise, where medication is administered to simulate the effect of exercise by increasing blood flow and heart rate.
Computer literacy:
A basic understanding of how a computer works and the applications used in a specific profession, including feeling comfortable using a computer for job needs.
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI):
Educational tools used for professional training of nurses, physicians, and other allied health personnel.
Computerized tomography (CT):
A noninvasive, computerized X-ray that permits physicians to see clear, cross-sectional views of bone and body tissues to find abnormalities such as tumors or bleeding.
Database:
An organized collection of information, such as records for patients and employees.
Dobutamine stress test:
A test used for patients who cannot exercise, where medication is administered to simulate exercise to determine how the heart responds to stress.
Echocardiogram:
A diagnostic tool that directs ultrahigh-frequency sound waves through the chest wall and into the heart, converting the reflection into an image to evaluate cardiac function.
Electrocardiogram (ECG):
A computerized interpretation system that produces visual pictures and a printout of the electrical activity of a patient's heart.
Electronic health record (EHR):
A computerized version of a patient's medical information, including statistical data, diagnoses, history, treatments, and test results.
Electronic mail (e-mail):
A communication tool used by health care personnel to exchange information with other agencies, insurance companies, or patients.
Ergonomics:
An applied science used to promote safety and well-being by adapting the environment and using techniques to prevent injuries.
Exercise stress test:
An ECG performed while a patient exercises (usually on a treadmill or bike) until a target heart rate is reached to evaluate heart function during activity.
Fields:
Specific areas within a database where information such as name, address, or medical history is entered.
File:
A group of related records combined within a database, such as all patient records in a dental office.
Health information exchange (HIE):
A coordinated system that allows health care agencies to transfer patient electronic health records (EHRs) between agencies in a national network.
Internet:
A network used to communicate with other health care personnel, research networks, insurance companies, and patients.
Lasers:
Highly focused light beams that can be used as scalpels to cut incisions at a constant depth.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):
A computerized body-scanning method that uses nuclear magnetic resonance (instead of X-ray radiation) to produce cross-sectional images of the body.
Mainframe computer:
A very large computer capable of controlling massive operations, such as the launch of a rocket.
Microcomputer:
Small computers ranging from handheld tablets and smartphones to laptops.
Networks:
Systems used to communicate with other health care personnel within the same agency or other agencies.
Nuclear stress test:
A test where a small amount of radioactive substance is given intravenously so a special camera can identify rays emitted during rest and exercise to evaluate heart health.
Patient portals:
Secure online websites established by health care providers that allow patients to log in and view their personal health information, request refills, or schedule appointments.
Personal computer:
A computer designed to sit on a desktop.
Positron emission tomography (PET):
A scan that uses an injected radioactive tracer to create three-dimensional images used to detect heart disease, circulatory problems, or cancer.