Ch. 12 Computers and Technology in Health Care
Adenosine stress test
A cardiac perfusion scan used for patients who cannot exercise; it uses the drug adenosine to dilate coronary arteries to simulate the effects of exercise.
Computer literacy
The basic understanding of how a computer works and the ability to use various computer applications efficiently.
Computer-aided design (CAD)
The use of computer systems to assist in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design (often used in medical prosthetics).
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI)
An interactive instructional technique where a computer is used to present learning material and monitor progress.
Computerized tomography
A diagnostic imaging procedure that uses X-rays and computer processing to create cross-sectional images (slices) of the body.
Database
A structured collection of information or data, typically stored electronically in a computer system.
Dobutamine stress test:
A pharmacological stress test used for patients unable to exercise, using dobutamine to make the heart beat faster and more strongly.
Echocardiogram
A test that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to create live images of the heart's chambers, valves, and walls.
Electronic health record (EHR):
A digital version of a patient’s paper chart that is real-time, patient-centered, and accessible to authorized users.
Electronic mail
Messages distributed by electronic means from one computer user to one or more recipients via a network.
Ergonomics
An applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.
Exercise stress test
A test used to measure the heart's ability to respond to external stress (treadmill or stationary bike) in a controlled clinical environment.
Fields
: Specific areas within a database record where a particular unit of information is entered (e.g., a "Zip Code" field).
File
A resource for recording data in a computer storage device, identified primarily by its filename.
Firewalls
Security systems that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
Health information exchange (HIE)
The electronic transmission of healthcare-related data among facilities, health information organizations, and government agencies.
Image-guided surgery
A surgical procedure where the surgeon uses real-time computerized images (like CT or MRI) to guide the operation.
Electrocardiogram
A medical test that detects cardiac (heart) abnormalities by measuring the electrical activity generated by the heart as it contracts.
Internet
The global system of interconnected computer networks that use the Internet protocol suite to link devices worldwide.
Lasers
Devices that generate an intense beam of coherent monochromatic light; used in surgery for precise cutting or tissue destruction.
Magnetic resonance imaging
A medical imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images of the organs in the body.
Mainframe computer:
A large, high-speed computer that supports many users and programs simultaneously; used by large institutions for bulk data processing.
Microcomputer
: A small computer that contains a microprocessor as its central processor (e.g., a standard desktop or laptop).
Networks
A collection of computers and devices connected together via communications devices and transmission media.
Nuclear stress test:
A diagnostic test that uses a small amount of radioactive material (tracer) and an imaging machine to create pictures showing the blood flow to the heart.