Ch. 12 Computers and Technology in Health Care
A cardiac perfusion scan used for patients who cannot exercise
Adenosine stress test
A structured collection of information (records) stored in a computer system, such as a pharmacy's drug inventory.
Database
Also known as e-mail; the process of creating, sending, receiving, and storing messages through a digital communication system.
Electronic mail
Software or hardware programs designed to prevent unauthorized access to a computer system or network.
Firewalls
A large, powerful computer that can handle billions of transactions and support thousands of users simultaneously.
Mainframe computer
The ability to understand the basics of how a computer works and the applications used in your field or profession.
Computer literacy
A diagnostic procedure where a drug (dobutamine) is used to stimulate the heart to beat faster, used for patients unable to perform physical exercise
Dobutamine stress test
An applied science used to promote the safety and well-being of a person by adapting the environment and using techniques to prevent injury.
Ergonomics
The electronic movement of health-related information among organizations according to national standards.
Health information exchange
Also known as a personal computer; a computer that fits on a desk or can be carried (like a laptop or tablet).
Microcomputer
The use of computer software to create 2D or 3D models, often used in healthcare to design prosthetics or dental implants.
Computer Aided design
A test that uses ultra-high-frequency sound waves to direct a beam into the heart to visualize its size, shape, and movement.
Echocardiogram
A test used to evaluate heart function by monitoring the patient's ECG and blood pressure while they walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike.
Exercise stress test
A surgical procedure where the surgeon uses real-time images (like CT or MRI) to guide the instruments.
Image guided surgery
Systems that connect computers and other devices (like printers) so they can communicate and share resources.
Networks
A teaching method where a computer is used to present instructional material and monitor learning.
Computer assisted instruction
A graphic record of the electrical activity of the heart.
Electrocardiogram
Specific areas within a database record where information is entered (e.g., "Last Name" or "Date of Birth").
Fields
Light beams that can be focused precisely; used in surgery to shape the cornea, remove warts, or eliminate plaque in arteries.
Lasers
A test that uses a small amount of radioactive material (tracer) and a camera to create images showing blood flow to the heart during exercise and rest.
Nuclear stress test
A noninvasive scanning procedure that uses X-rays and a computer to create cross-sectional images of body tissues and organs.
Computer tomography
A digital version of a patient's paper chart; it is a real-time, patient-centered record that makes information available instantly and securely.
Electronic health record
A collection of related records (e.g., all the patients in a specific medical practice).
File
A process that uses nuclear magnetic resonance (magnetic fields and radio waves) to visualize internal body structures.
Magnetic resonance imaging
Secure online websites that give patients 24-hour access to personal health information from anywhere with an internet connection.
Patient portals