Ch. 12 Computers and Technology in Health Care - KEY TERMS
Adenosine stress test
A diagnostic test used for patients unable to exercise; a drug (adenosine) is used to dilate coronary vessels to simulate the effect of exercise on the heart.
Computer literacy
The ability to understand the basics of how a computer works and the applications used in one's field or profession.
Computer-aided design (CAD)
The use of computer software to create 2D or 3D technical drawings or models (e.g., designing prosthetics).
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI)
Educational software or programs designed to teach or train students through interactive lessons.
Computerized tomography (CT)
A non-invasive scanning procedure that uses X-rays and a computer to create cross-sectional images of body tissues.
Database
A structured collection of information or data stored in a computer system (e.g., a list of all patients in a hospital).
Dobutamine stress test
A chemical stress test using the drug dobutamine to make the heart beat faster and stronger, used when a patient cannot use a treadmill.
Echocardiogram
A test that uses ultra-high-frequency sound waves to provide images of the heart's valves and chambers.
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
A graphic record of the electrical activity of the heart.
Electronic health record (EHR)
A digital version of a patient's paper chart; a longitudinal record of patient health information.
Electronic mail
Commonly known as e-mail; the exchange of digital messages over a network.
Ergonomics
The study of people's efficiency in their working environment, specifically designed to prevent injuries (e.g., proper chair height).
Exercise stress test
A test that monitors the heart's rhythm and blood pressure while a patient exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike.
Fields
In a database, these are the specific categories of information (e.g., "Last Name" or "Date of Birth").
File
A collection of related records stored as a unit in a computer.
Firewalls
Security systems (hardware or software) designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network.
Health Information Exchange (HIE)
Surgery performed with the aid of 3D images that act as a "GPS" for the surgeon to navigate the body.
Internet
The worldwide network of computer systems that facilitates communication and data exchange globally.
Lasers
Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation; concentrated beams of light used for cutting, cauterizing, or treating tissue.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
A diagnostic technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs and soft tissues.
Mainframe computer
A large, powerful computer capable of processing vast amounts of data and supporting many users simultaneously.
Microcomputer
Also known as a personal computer; a small computer designed for use by one person at a time (e.g., a tablet or laptop).
Networks
A group of two or more computer systems linked together to share resources and communicate.
Nuclear stress test
A stress test where a small amount of radioactive substance is injected to show how well blood flows to the heart muscle.
Patient portals
Secure online websites that give patients 24-hour access to personal health information.