Word Parts
word part that comes at the end of a medical term
suffix
-ectomy
excision, removal of
mal-
bad, inadequate
d/c
discharge or discontinue. write out what is intended
DNR
do not resuscitate
word part that comes at the beginning of a medical term
prefix
-graphy
process of recording
dys-
abnormal, bad, difficult, painful
OD
right eye. mistaken for OS, OU, AD, AS, AU
HOB
head of bed
the main stem or primary meaning of the word
word root
-plasty
surgical repair
tachy-
rapid
u
unit. mistaken for0, 4, or cc
Hx.
history
word root + combining vowel =
combining form
-rrhapy
suture
herniorrhaphy (suturing a hernia)
ab-
away from
AD
right ear. mistaken for AS, AU, OD, OS, OU
NPO
nothing by mouth
when deciphering medical terms, decipher this word part first
suffix
-tripsy
crushing
lithotripsy (device using shock waves to break up hardened masses)
oligo-
few
IU
international unit. mistaken for IV
ad. lib.
as desired, at discretion