Key terms
Computer literacy
A basic understanding of how a computer works and the applications used in a specific field or profession. It also involves feeling comfortable using a computer for job needs
fields
Specific areas within a database where individual types of information (e.g., name, address) are entered.
Secure online websites established by health care providers that allow patients to access their personal health information and communicate with their provider.
patient portals
Tests for patients who cannot exercise; medication is given to simulate the effect of exercise by increasing blood flow and heart rate
Adenosine Stress Test
Systems that use artificial intelligence to assist in the detection and diagnosis of diseases, such as scanning mammogram images
Computer aided diagnosis
ergonomics
An applied science used to promote an individual's safety and well-being by adapting the environment and using techniques to prevent injuries
records
A collection of related fields within a database, such as all the combined information for one specific patient
Software used to perform high-speed math calculations with numerical data using specific formulas
Spreadsheet
A noninvasive, computerized X-ray that provides clear, cross-sectional views of bone and body tissues to identify abnormalities like tumors.
Tomography (CT)
Computer aided design (CAD)
Used to design prosthetics, dental implants, or artificial organs tailored to a patient’s specific dimensions.
mainframe computer
A very large computer capable of controlling complex operations, such as the launch of a rocket to outer space.
file
A group of related records combined together, such as all the patient records in a dental office.
A computerized system that produces visual pictures and printouts of the electrical activity of a patient's heart to assist in diagnosis.
Electrocardiogram
A body-scanning method that uses nuclear magnetic resonance and a magnetic field—rather than X-rays—to produce cross-sectional images of the body.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
A computer-controlled mechanical device that allows surgeons to perform precise, minimally invasive procedures.
Robotic surgery
Mircocomputer
Small computers ranging from handheld tablets, smartphones, and personal digital assistants (PDAs) to laptops.
Electronic health record (EHR)
A computerized version of a patient’s medical information, including diagnoses, history, treatments, and tests
An ECG run while the patient is exercising (typically on a treadmill or bike) to evaluate heart function during activity
Exercise stress test
A procedure where a radioactive substance is injected into the patient and detected by a scanner to create 3-D images for diagnosing heart disease or cancer.
Positron Emission TOmography
The use of video, audio, and computer systems to provide medical or health care services from a distance.
Telemedicine
database
An organized collection of information.
Health information exchange (HIE)
A national network that allows health care agencies to transfer patient EHRs between different facilities to improve the speed and safety of care.
A test where a radioactive substance is given intravenously so a special camera can evaluate heart health during rest and exercise.
Nuclear stress test
A noninvasive scanning method using high-frequency sound waves that bounce back as echoes to create pictures of body parts.
Ultrasonography
A term often used interchangeably with an ultrasound or specific cardiac imaging produced by high-frequency sound waves.
ecogram