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.
Database:
A structured collection of information or data stored in a computer system (e.g., a list of all patients in a hospital).
Electronic mail:
Commonly known as e-mail; the exchange of digital messages over a network.
Firewalls:
Security systems (hardware or software) designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI):
A diagnostic technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of organs and soft tissues.
Computer literacy:
The ability to understand the basics of how a computer works and the applications used in one's field or profession.
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.
Ergonomics:
The study of people's efficiency in their working environment, specifically designed to prevent injuries (e.g., proper chair height).
Health Information Exchange (HIE):
The electronic movement of health-related information among organizations according to nationally recognized standards.
Mainframe computer:
A large, powerful computer capable of processing vast amounts of data and supporting many users simultaneously.
Computer-aided design (CAD):
The use of computer software to create 2D or 3D technical drawings or models (e.g., designing prosthetics).
Echocardiogram:
A test that uses ultra-high-frequency sound waves to provide images of the heart's valves and chambers.
Exercise stress test:
A test that monitors the heart's rhythm and blood pressure while a patient exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike.
Image-guided surgery (IGS):
Surgery performed with the aid of 3D images that act as a "GPS" for the surgeon to navigate the body.
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).
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI):
Educational software or programs designed to teach or train students through interactive lessons.
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG):
A graphic record of the electrical activity of the heart.
Fields:
In a database, these are the specific categories of information (e.g., "Last Name" or "Date of Birth").
Internet:
The worldwide network of computer systems that facilitates communication and data exchange globally.
Networks:
A group of two or more computer systems linked together to share resources and communicate.
Computerized tomography (CT)
: A non-invasive scanning procedure that uses X-rays and a computer to create cross-sectional images of body tissues.
Electronic health record (EHR):=
A digital version of a patient's paper chart; a longitudinal record of patient health information.
File:
A collection of related records stored as a unit in a computer.
Lasers:
Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation; concentrated beams of light used for cutting, cauterizing, or treating tissue.
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.