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638 Cards in this Set
- Front
- Back
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Absorption
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the process of moving a drug across body membranes
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Acidosis
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condition of having too much acid in the blood; plasma pH below 7.35
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Acne vulgaris
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condition characterized by small inflamed bumps that appear on the surface of the skin
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Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
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(AIDS) infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
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Acquired resistance
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when a microbe is no longer affected by a drug following anti-infective pharmacotherapy
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Action potential
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electrical changes in the membrane of a muscle or nerve cell due to changes in membrane permeability
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Activated partial thromboplastin time
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(aPTT) blood test used to determine how long it takes clots to form, to regulate heparin dosage
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Active immunity
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resistance resulting from a previous exposure to an antigen
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Acute gouty arthritis
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condition where uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints of the big toes, ankles, wrists, fingers, knees, or elbows, resulting in red, swollen, or inflamed tissue
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Acute radiation syndrome
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life-threatening symptoms resulting from acute exposure to ionizing radiation, including nausea, vomiting, severe leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, and alopecia
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Addiction
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the continued use of a substance despite its negative health and social consequences
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Addison’s disease
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hyposecretion of glucocorticoids and aldosterone by the adrenal cortex
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Adenohypophysis
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anterior portion of the pituitary gland
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Adjuvant chemotherapy
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a technique in which antineoplastics are administered after surgery or radiation to effect a cure
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Adolescence
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person from 13 to 16 years of age
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Adrenocorticotropic hormone
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(ACTH) hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary that stimulates the release of glucocorticoids by the adrenal cortex
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Aerobic
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pertaining to an oxygen environment
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Aerosol
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suspension of minute liquid droplets or fine solid particles suspended in a gas
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Affinity
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chemical attraction that impels certain molecules to unite with others to form complexes
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Afterload
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pressure that must be overcome for the ventricles to eject blood from the heart
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Agonist
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drug that is capable of binding with receptors to induce a cellular response
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Aldosterone
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hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex that increases sodium reabsorption in the distal tubule of the kidney
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Alkalosis
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condition of having too many basic substances in the blood; plasma pH above 7.45
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Alkylation
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process by which certain chemicals attach to DNA and change its structure and function
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Allergic reaction
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acquired, hyperresponse of body defenses to a foreign substance (allergen)
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Allergic rhinitis
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syndrome of sneezing, itchy throat, watery eyes, and nasal congestion resulting from exposure to antigens; also known as hay fever
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Alopecia
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hair loss
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Amenorrhea
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lack of normal menstrual periods
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Anabolic steroids
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compounds resembling testosterone with hormonal activity commonly abused by athletes
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Anaerobic
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pertaining to an environment without oxygen
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Anaphylactic shock
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type of shock caused by an acute allergic reaction
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Anaphylaxis
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acute allergic response to an antigen that results in severe hypotension and may lead to life-threatening shock if untreated
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Anaphylaxis
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acute allergic response to an antigen that results in severe hypotension and may lead to life-threatening shock if untreated
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Anastomoses
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natural communication networks among the coronary arteries
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Androgens
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steroid sex hormones that promote the appearance of masculine characteristics
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Anemia
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lack of adequate numbers of red blood cells or deceased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood
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Angina pectoris
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acute chest pain upon physical or emotional exertion due to inadequate oxygen supply to the myocardium
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Angiotensin II
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chemical released in response to falling blood pressure that causes vasoconstriction and release of aldosterone
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Angiotensin-converting enzyme
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(ACE) enzyme responsible for converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II
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Anions
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negatively charged ions
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Anorexiant
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drug used to suppress appetite
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Antacid
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drug that neutralizes stomach acid
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Antagonist
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drug that blocks the response of another drug
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Antepartum
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prior to the onset of labor
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Anthrax
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microorganism that can cause severe disease and high mortality in humans
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Antibiotic
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substance produced by a microorganism that inhibits or kills other microorganisms
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Antibody
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protein produced by the body in response to an antigen; used interchangeably with the term immunoglobulin
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Anticoagulant
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agent that inhibits the formation of blood clots
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Antidiuretic hormone
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(ADH) hormone produced by the hypothalamus and secreted by the posterior pituitary that stimulates the kidneys to conserve water
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Antiemetic
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drug that prevents vomiting
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Antifibrinolytic
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drug used to prevent and treat excessive bleeding from surgical sites
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Antiflatulent
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an agent that reduces gas bubbles, thereby decreasing bloating and discomfort
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Antigen
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foreign organism or substance that induces the formation of antibodies by the immune system
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Antigen
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foreign organism or substance that induces the formation of antibodies by the immune system
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Anti-infective
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general term for any medication that is effective against pathogens
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Antipyretic
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drug that lowers body temperature
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Antiretroviral
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drug that is effective against retroviruses
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Antithrombin III
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protein that prevents abnormal clotting by inhibiting thrombin
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Antitussive
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drug used to suppress cough
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Apoprotein
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protein component of a lipoprotein
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Apothecary system of measurement
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older system of measurement using drams; rarely used
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Aqueous humor
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fluid that fills the anterior and posterior chambers of the eye
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Aromatase inhibitor
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hormone inhibitor that blocks the enzyme aromatase, which normally converts adrenal androgen to estradiol
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ASAP order
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as soon as possible order that should be available for administration to the patient within 30 minutes of the written order
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Assessment
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appraisal of a patient's condition that involves gathering and interpreting data
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Asthma
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chronic inflammatory disease of the lungs characterized by airway obstruction
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Astringent effect
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drops or sprays used to shrink swollen mucous membranes, or to loosen secretions and facilitate drainage
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Atherosclerosis
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condition characterized by a buildup of fatty plaque and loss of elasticity of the walls of the arteries
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Atherosclerosis
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condition characterized by a buildup of fatty plaque and loss of elasticity of the walls of the arteries
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Atrioventricular (AV) node
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cardiac tissue that receives electrical impulses from the SA node and conveys them to the ventricles
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Atrioventricular bundle
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cardiac tissue that receives electrical impulses from the AV node and sends them to the bundle branches; also known as the bundle of His
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Attention-deficit disorder
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(ADD) inability to focus attention on a task for a sufficient length of time
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Autoantibodies
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proteins called rheumatoid factors released by B lymphocytes that tear down the body’s own tissue
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Automaticity
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ability of certain myocardial cells to spontaneously generate an action potential
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Autonomy
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ability to make decisions unaided by others
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Azole
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term for the major class of drugs used to treat mycoses
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Azoospermia
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complete absence of sperm in an ejaculate
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Azotemia
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accumulation of nitrogenous waste products in the kidneys that can result in death if untreated
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B cell
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lymphocyte responsible for humoral immunity
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Bacilli
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bacteria that are oblong in shape; also called rods
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Bacteriocidal
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substance that kills bacteria
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Bacteriostatic
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substance that inhibits the growth of bacteria
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Baroreceptors
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nerves located in the walls of the atria, aortic arch, vena cava, and carotid sinus that sense changes in blood pressure
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Basal metabolic rate
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resting rate of metabolism in the body
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Baseline data
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patient information that is gathered before pharmacotherapy is implemented
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Beneficence
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ethical principle of doing good
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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
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nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate gland
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Benign prostatic hypertrophy
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(BPH) nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate gland
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Benign
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not life threatening or fatal
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Benzodiazepines
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major class of drugs used to treat anxiety disorders
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Beriberi
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deficiency of thiamine
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Beta-lactam ring
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chemical structure found in most penicillins and some cephalosporins
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Beta-lactamase (penicillinase)
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enzyme present in certain bacteria that is able to inactivate many penicillins and some cephalosporins
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Bile acid resin
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drug that bind bile acids, thus lowering cholesterol
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Bioavailability
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ability of a drug to reach the bloodstream and its target tissues
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Biologic response modifiers
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substances that are able to enhance or stimulate the immune system
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Biologics
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substances that produce biologic responses within the body; they are synthesized by cells of the human body, animal cells, or microorganisms
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Bioterrorism
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intentional use of infectious biologic agents, chemical substances, or radiation to cause widespread harm or illness
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Bisphosphonates
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class of drugs that block bone resorption by inhibiting osteoclast activity
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Blood-brain barrier
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anatomical structure that prevents certain substances from gaining access to the brain
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Bone deposition
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opposite of bone resorption; the process of depositing mineral components into bone
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Bone resorption
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process of bone demineralization or the breaking down of bone into mineral components
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Botanical
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plant extract used to treat or prevent illness
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Bowman’s capsule
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portion of the nephron that filters blood and receives the filtrate from the glomerulus
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Breakthrough bleeding
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hemorrhage at abnormal times during the menstrual cycle
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Broad-spectrum antibiotic
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anti-infective that is effective against many different gram positive and gram negative organisms
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Bronchospasm
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rapid constriction of the airways
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Buccal route
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tablet or capsule that is placed in the oral cavity between the gum and the cheek
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Buffer
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chemical that helps maintain normal body pH by neutralizing strong acids or bases
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Bundle branches
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electrical conduction pathway in the heart leading from the AV bundle and through the wall between the ventricles
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Calcifediol
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substance formed in the first step of vitamin D formation
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Calcineurin
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intracellular messenger molecule to which immunosuppressants bind
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Calcitonin
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hormone secreted by the thyroid gland that increases the deposition of calcium in bone
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Calcitriol
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substance that is transformed in the kidneys during the second step of the conversion of vitamin D to its active form
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Calcium channel blocker
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drug that blocks the flow of calcium ions into myocardial cells
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Calcium ion channel
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pathway in a plasma membrane through which calcium ions enter and leave
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Camptothecin
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class of antineoplastics that inhibits the enzyme topoisomerase
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Cancer/carcinoma
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malignant disease characterized by rapidly growing, invasive cells that spread to other regions of the body and eventually kill the host
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Capsid
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protein coat that surrounds a virus
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Carbonic anhydrase
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enzyme that forms carbonic acid by combining carbon dioxide and water
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Cardiac decompensation
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occurs during heart failure when the heart can no longer handle the workload, and symptoms such as dyspnea on exertion, fatigue, pulmonary congestion, and peripheral edema appear
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Cardiac output
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amount of blood pumped by a ventricle in 1 minute
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Cardiac output
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amount of blood pumped by a ventricle in 1 minute
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Cardiac remodeling
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changes in the size, shape, and structure of the myocardial cells (myocytes) that occur over time in heart failure
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Cardiogenic shock
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type of shock caused when the heart is diseased such that it cannot maintain circulation to the tissues
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Cardioversion/defibrillation
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conversion of fibrillation to a normal heart rhythm
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Carotene
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class of yellow-red pigments that are precursors to vitamin A
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Cathartic
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substance that causes complete evacuation of the bowel
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Cations
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positively charged ions
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CD4 receptor
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protein that accepts HIV and allows entry of the virus into the T4 lymphocyte
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Cerebrovascular accident/stroke/brain attack
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acute condition of a blood clot or bleeding in a vessel in the brain
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Chemical name
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strict chemical nomenclature used for naming drugs established by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC)
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Chemoreceptors
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nerves located in the aortic arch and carotid sinus that sense changes in oxygen content, pH, or carbon dioxide levels in the blood
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Chemotherapy
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drug treatment of cancer
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Chief cells
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cells located in the mucosa of the stomach that secrete pepsinogen, an inactive form of the enzyme pepsin that chemically breaks down proteins
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Cholecalciferol
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vitamin D3 formed in the skin by exposure to ultraviolet light
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Chronic bronchitis
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recurrent disease of the lungs characterized by excess mucus production, inflammation, and coughing
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
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generic term used to describe several pulmonary conditions characterized by cough, mucus production, and impaired gas exchange
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Chronotropic effect
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change in the heart rate
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Chyme
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semifluid, partly digested food that is passed from the stomach to the duodenum
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Clinical investigation
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second stage of drug testing that involves clinical phase trials
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Clinical phase trials
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testing of a new drug in selected patients
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Closed-angle glaucoma
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acute glaucoma that is caused by decreased outflow of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber
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Clotting factors
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substances contributing to the process of blood hemostasis
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Coagulation cascade
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complex series of steps by which blood flow stops
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Coagulation
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process of blood clotting
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Cocci
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bacteria that are spherical in shape
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Colloids
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type of IV fluid consisting of large organic molecules that are unable to cross membranes
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Colloids
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type of IV fluid consisting of large organic molecules that are unable to cross membranes
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Colony-stimulating factors
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hormones that regulate the growth and maturation of specific WBC populations
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Combination drug
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drug product with more than one active generic ingredient
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Comedome
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type of acne that develops just beneath the surface of the skin (whiteheads) or as a result of a plugged oil gland (blackhead)
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Complement
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a series of proteins involved in the nonspecific defense of the body that promote antigen destruction
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Complementary alternative therapies
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treatments considered outside the realm of conventional Western medicine
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Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)
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treatments that consider the health of the whole person and promote disease prevention
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Compliance
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taking a medication in the manner prescribed by the healthcare provider, or, in the case of OTC drugs, following the instructions on the label
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Conjugates
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side chains that, during metabolism, make drugs more water soluble and more easily excreted by the kidney
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Constipation
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infrequent passage of abnormally hard and dry stools
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Contractility
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the strength by which the myocardial fibers contract
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Controlled substance
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in the United States, a drug whose use is restricted by the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act; in Canada, a drug subject to guidelines outlined in Part III, Schedule G of the Canadian Food and Drugs Act
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Coronary arteries
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vessels that bring oxygen and nutrients to the myocardium
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Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)
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surgical procedure performed to restore blood flow to the myocardium by using a section of the saphenous vein or internal mammary artery to go around the obstructed coronary artery
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Corpus cavernosum
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tissue in the penis that fills with blood during an erection
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Corpus luteum
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ruptured follicle that remains in the ovary after ovulation and secretes progestins
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Crohn’s disease
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chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the ileum and sometimes the colon
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Cross-tolerance
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when tolerance to one drug makes the patient tolerant to another drug
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Crystalloids
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type of IV fluid resembling blood plasma minus proteins that is capable of crossing membranes
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Crystalloids
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type of IV fluid resembling blood plasma minus proteins that is capable of crossing membranes
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Culture and sensitivity test
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laboratory exam used to identify bacteria and to determine which antibiotic is most effective
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Culture
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set of beliefs, values, religious rituals, and customs shared by a group of people
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Cushing’s syndrome
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condition of having too much corticosteroids in the blood, caused by excessive secretion by the adrenal glands or by overdosage with corticosteroid medication
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Cushing’s syndrome
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condition of having too much corticosteroids in the blood, caused by excessive secretion by the adrenal glands or by overdosage with corticosteroid medication
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Cyclooxygenase (COX–1 and COX–2)
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key enzyme in the prostaglandin metabolic pathway that is blocked by aspirin and other NSAIDs
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Cycloplegic drugs
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drugs that relax or temporarily paralyze ciliary muscles and cause blurred vision
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Cytokine
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chemical produced by white blood cells, such as interleukins, leukotrienes, interferon, and tumor necrosis factor, that guide the immune response
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Cytotoxic T cell
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lymphocyte responsible for cell-mediated immunity that kills target cells directly or by secreting cytokines
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Defecation
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evacuation of the colon; bowel movement
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Dependence
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strong physiologic or psychologic need for a substance
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Depolarization
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reversal of charge of the plasma membrane charge such that the inside is made less negative
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Dermatitis
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inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by itching and scaling
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Dermatophytic
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superficial fungal infection
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Designer drugs
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substances produced in a laboratory and intended to mimic the effects of other psychoactive controlled substances
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Diabetes insipidus
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excessive urination due to lack of secretion of antidiuretic hormone
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Diabetes mellitus, type 1
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metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia caused by a lack of secretion of insulin by the pancreas
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Diabetes mellitus, type 2
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chronic metabolic disease caused by insufficient secretion of insulin by the pancreas, and a lack of sensitivity of insulin receptors
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Diabetic ketoacidosis
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a type of metabolic acidosis due to an excess of ketone bodies, most often occuring when diabetes mellitus is uncontrolled
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Diarrhea
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abnormal frequency and liquidity of bowel movements
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Diastolic pressure
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blood pressure during the relaxation phase of heart activity
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Dietary fiber
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ingested substance that is neither digested nor absorbed that contributes to the fecal mass
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Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA)
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primary law in the United States regulating herb and dietary supplements
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Dietary supplement
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nondrug substance regulated by the DSHEA
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Digitilization
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procedure in which the dose of cardiac glycoside is gradually increased until tissues become saturated with the drug, and the symptoms of heart failure diminish
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Disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)
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drugs from several classes that modify the progression of rheumatoid arthritis; include hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), methotrexate (Rheumatrex), or sulfasalazine (Azulfidine)
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Distal tubule
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portion of the nephron that collects filtrate from the loop of Henle
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Distribution
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the process of transporting drugs through the body
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Diuretic
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substance that increases urine output
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Diuretic
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substance that increases urine output
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Dromotropic effect
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change in the conduction speed across the myocardium
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Drug
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general term for any substance capable of producing biological responses in the body
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Drug-protein complex
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drug that has bound reversibly to plasma proteins, particularly albumin, that makes the drug unavailable for distribution to body tissues
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Dry powder inhaler (DPI)
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device used to convert a solid drug to a fine powder for the purpose of inhalation
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Dysentery
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severe diarrhea that may include bleeding
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Dysfunctional uterine bleeding
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hemorrhage that occurs at abnormal times or in excessive quantity during the menstrual cycle
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Dyslipidemia
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abnormal (excess or deficient) levels of lipoproteins in the blood
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Dysrhythmia
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abnormality in cardiac rhythm
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Ectopic foci, pacemakers
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cardiac tissue outside the normal cardiac conduction pathway that generates action potentials
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Eczema
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also called atopic dermatitis, a skin disorder with unexplained symptoms of inflammation, itching, and scaling
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Efficacy
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the ability of a drug to produce a desired response
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Electrocardiogram (ECG)
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device that records the electrical activity of the heart
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Electrolytes
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charged substances in the blood such as sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and phosphate
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Electrolytes
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charged substances in the blood such as sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and phosphate
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Embolus
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blood clot carried in the bloodstream
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Emesis
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vomiting
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Emetic potential
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usually applied to antineoplastic agents; meaning the degree to which an agent is likely to trigger the vomiting center in the medulla, resulting in nausea and vomiting
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Emetic potential
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usually applied to antineoplastic agents; meaning the degree to which an agent is likely to trigger the vomiting center in the medulla, resulting in nausea and vomiting
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Emetic
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drug used to induce vomiting
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Emphysema
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terminal lung disease characterized by permanent dilation of the alveoli
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Endometriosis
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presence of endometrial tissue in nonuterine locations such as the pelvis and ovaries; a common cause of infertility
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Endothelium
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the inner lining of a blood vessel
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Enteral nutrition
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nutrients supplied orally or by feeding tube
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Enteral route
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drugs given orally, and those administered through nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes
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Enteric coated
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tablets that have a hard, waxy coating designed to dissolve in the alkaline environment of the small intestine
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Enterohepatic recirculation
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recycling of drugs and other substances by the circulation of bile through the intestine and liver
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Enzyme induction
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process in which a drug changes the function of the hepatic microsomal enzymes and increases metabolic activity in the liver
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Ergocalciferol
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activated form of vitamin D
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Ergosterol
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lipid substance in fungal cell membranes
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Erythema
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redness associated with skin irritation
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Erythrocytic stage
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phase in malaria during which infected red blood cells rupture, releasing merozoites and causing fever and chills
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Erythropoietin
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hormone secreted by the kidney that regulates the process of red blood cell formation, or erythropoiesis
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Estrogen
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class of steroid sex hormones secreted by the ovary
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Ethical dilemma
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when two moral principles appear to be in conflict
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Ethics
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branch of philosophy that deals with distinguishing between right and wrong, and the moral consequences of human actions
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Ethnic
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people having a common history and similar genetic heritage
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Evaluation, systematic
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objective assessment of the effectiveness and impact of interventions
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Excoriation
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scratches that break the skin surface and fill with blood or serous fluid to form crusty scales
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Excretion
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the process of removing substances from the body
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Expectorant
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drug used to increase bronchial secretions
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|
External otitis
|
commonly called swimmer’s ear, an inflammation of the outer ear
|
|
|
Extracellular fluid (ECF) compartment
|
body fluid lying outside of cells, which includes plasma and interstitial fluid
|
|
|
Ferritin
|
one of two protein complexes that maintains iron stores inside cells (hemosiderin is the other)
|
|
|
Fetal-placental barrier
|
special anatomical structure that inhibits many chemicals and drugs from entering the fetus
|
|
|
Fibrillation
|
type of dysrhythmia in which the chambers beat in a highly disorganized manner
|
|
|
Fibrin
|
an insoluble protein formed from fibrinogen by the action of thrombin in the blood clotting process
|
|
|
Fibrinogen
|
blood protein that is converted to fibrin by the action of thrombin in the blood coagulation process
|
|
|
Fibrinolysis
|
removal of a blood clot
|
|
|
Fidelity
|
the obligation to be faithful to agreements and fulfill promises
|
|
|
Filtrate
|
fluid in the nephron that is filtered at Bowman’s capsule
|
|
|
First-pass effect
|
mechanism whereby drugs are absorbed across the intestinal wall and enter into the hepatic portal circulation
|
|
|
Five rights of drug administration
|
principles that offer simple and practical guidance for nurses to use during drug preparation, delivery, and administration
|
|
|
Folic acid/folate
|
B vitamin that is a coenzyme in protein and nucleic acid metabolism
|
|
|
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
|
hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that regulates sperm or egg production
|
|
|
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
|
hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that regulates sperm or egg production
|
|
|
Follicular cells
|
cells in the thyroid gland that secrete thyroid hormone
|
|
|
Food and Drug Administration
|
(FDA) U.S. agency responsible for the evaluation and approval of new drugs
|
|
|
Formulary
|
lists of drugs and drug recipes commonly used by pharmacists
|
|
|
Frank-Starling law
|
the greater the degree of stretch on the myocardial fibers, the greater will be the force by which they contract
|
|
|
Frequency response curve
|
graphical representation that illustrates interpatient variability in responses to drugs
|
|
|
Fungi
|
kingdom of organisms that includes mushrooms, yeasts, and molds
|
|
|
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
|
the regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus
|
|
|
Generic name
|
nonproprietary name of a drug assigned by the government
|
|
|
Genetic polymorphism
|
changes in enzyme structure and function due to mutation of the encoding gene
|
|
|
Glucocorticoid
|
class of hormones secreted by the adrenal cortex that help the body respond to stress
|
|
|
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa
|
enzyme that binds fibrinogen and von Willebrand’s factor to begin platelet aggregation and blood coagulation
|
|
|
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa
|
enzyme that binds fibrinogen and von Willebrand’s factor to begin platelet aggregation and blood coagulation
|
|
|
Goal
|
any object or objective that the patient or nurse seeks to attain or achieve
|
|
|
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
|
a hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that stimulates the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)
|
|
|
Gout
|
metabolic disorder characterized by the accumulation of uric acid in the bloodstream or joint cavities
|
|
|
Graded dose response
|
relationship between and measurement of the patient's response obtained at different doses of a drug
|
|
|
Gram-negative
|
bacteria that do not retain a purple stain because they have an outer envelope
|
|
|
Gram-positive
|
bacteria that stain purple because they have no outer envelope
|
|
|
Grave’s disease
|
syndrome caused by hypersecretion of thyroid hormone
|
|
|
Growth fraction
|
the ratio of the number of replicating cells to resting cells in a tumor
|
|
|
H1, K1-ATPase
|
enzyme responsible for pumping acid onto the mucosal surface of the stomach
|
|
|
H1-receptor
|
sites located on smooth muscle cells in the bronchial tree and blood vessels that are stimulated by histamine to produce bronchodilation and vasodilation
|
|
|
H1-receptor
|
sites located on smooth muscle cells in the bronchial tree and blood vessels that are stimulated by histamine to produce bronchodilation and vasodilation
|
|
|
H2-receptor antagonist
|
drug that inhibits the effects of histamine at its receptors in the GI tract
|
|
|
H2-receptor
|
sites located on cells of the digestive system that are stimulated by histamine to produce gastric acid
|
|
|
Heart failure
|
disease in which the heart muscle cannot contract with sufficient force to meet the body’s metabolic needs
|
|
|
Helicobacter pylori
|
bacterium associated with a large percentage of peptic ulcer disease
|
|
|
Helminth
|
type of flat, round, or segmented worm
|
|
|
Helper T cell
|
lymphocyte that coordinates both the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses and that is the target of the human immunodeficiency virus
|
|
|
Hematopoiesis
|
process of erythrocyte production which begins with primitive stem cells that reside in bone marrow
|
|
|
Hemophilia
|
hereditary lack of a specific blood clotting factor
|
|
|
Hemorrhagic stroke
|
type of stroke caused by bleeding from a blood vessel in the brain
|
|
|
Hemosiderin
|
one of two protein complexes that maintains iron stores inside cells (ferritin is the other)
|
|
|
Hemostasis
|
the slowing or stopping of blood flow
|
|
|
Hemostatics
|
drugs used to inhibit the normal removal of fibrin, used to speed clot formation and keep the clot in place for a longer period
|
|
|
Hepatic microsomal enzyme system
|
as it relates to pharmacotherapy, liver enzymes that inactivate drugs and accelerate their excretion; sometimes called the P-450 system
|
|
|
Hepatitis
|
viral infection of the liver
|
|
|
Herb
|
plant with a soft stem that is used for healing or as a seasoning
|
|
|
High-density lipoprotein
|
(HDL) lipid-carrying particle in the blood that contains high amounts of protein and lower amounts of cholesterol; considered to be “good” cholesterol
|
|
|
Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)
|
drug therapy for HIV infection which includes high doses of multiple medications that are given concurrently
|
|
|
Histamine
|
chemical released by mast cells in response to an antigen that causes dilation of blood vessels, bronchoconstriction, tissue swelling, and itching
|
|
|
HIV-AIDS
|
acronym for human immunodeficiency virus-acquired immune deficiency syndrome; characterized by profound immunosuppression that leads to opportunistic infections and malignancies not commonly found in patients with functioning immune defenses
|
|
|
HMG-CoA reductase
|
primary enzyme in the biochemical pathway for the synthesis of cholesterol
|
|
|
Holistic
|
viewing a person as an integrated biological, psychosocial, cultural, communicating whole, existing and functioning within the communal environment
|
|
|
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
|
drug therapy, consisting of estrogen and progestin combinations; used to treat symptoms associated with menopause
|
|
|
Hormone
|
chemicals secreted by endocrine glands that act as chemical messengers to affect homeostasis
|
|
|
Host flora
|
normal microorganisms found in or on a patient
|
|
|
Household system of measurement
|
older system of measurement using teaspoons, tablespoons, and cups
|
|
|
Humoral immunity
|
branch of the immune system that produces antibodies
|
|
|
Hypercholesterolemia
|
high levels of cholesterol in the blood
|
|
|
Hyperglycemia
|
high glucose level in the blood
|
|
|
Hyperkalemia
|
high potassium level in the blood
|
|
|
Hypernatremia
|
high sodium level in the blood
|
|
|
Hyperosmolar nonketotic coma (HNKC)
|
life-threatening metabolic condition that occurs in people with type 2 diabetes
|
|
|
Hypertension
|
high blood pressure
|
|
|
Hyperuricemia
|
an elevated blood level of uric acid, which causes gout
|
|
|
Hypervitaminosis
|
excess intake of vitamins
|
|
|
Hypoglycemia
|
low glucose level in the blood
|
|
|
Hypogonadism
|
below normal secretion of the steroid sex hormones
|
|
|
Hypokalemia
|
low potassium level in the blood
|
|
|
Hyponatremia
|
low sodium level in the blood
|
|
|
Hypovolemic shock
|
type of shock caused by loss of fluids such as occurs during hemorrhage, extensive burns, or severe vomiting or diarrhea
|
|
|
Idiosyncratic response
|
unpredictable and unexplained drug reaction
|
|
|
Ileum
|
third portion of the small intestine extending from the jejunum to the ileocecal valve
|
|
|
Immune response
|
specific reaction of the body to foreign agents involving B and/or T lymphocytes
|
|
|
Immunosuppressant
|
any drug, chemical, or physical agent that lowers the immune defense mechanisms of the body
|
|
|
Impotence
|
inability to obtain or sustain an erection; also called erectile dysfunction
|
|
|
Infancy
|
child under the age of 1 year
|
|
|
Infertility
|
inability to become pregnant after at least 1 year of frequent, unprotected intercourse
|
|
|
Inflammation
|
nonspecific body defense that occurs in response to an injury or antigen
|
|
|
Influenza
|
common viral infection; often called flu
|
|
|
Inotropic agent
|
drug or chemical that changes the force of contraction of the heart
|
|
|
Inotropic effect
|
change in the strength or contractility of the heart
|
|
|
Insulin analog
|
modified human insulin with pharmacokinetic advantages, such more rapid onset of action or prolonged duration of action
|
|
|
Insulin resistance
|
occurs in type 2 diabetes mellitus; although insulin is secreted, insulin receptors in target tissues become insensitive to insulin, binding of insulin to these receptors decreases, and less effect is achieved
|
|
|
Interferon
|
type of cytokine secreted by T cells in response to antigens to protect uninfected cells
|
|
|
Interleukin
|
class of cytokines synthesized by lymphocytes, monocytes, macrophages, and certain other cells, that enhance the capabilities of the immune system
|
|
|
Intermittent claudication
|
a condition caused by insufficient blood flow to skeletal muscles in the lower limbs, resulting in ischemia of skeletal muscles and severe pain on walking, especially in calf muscles
|
|
|
Interventions
|
actions that produce an effect or that are intended to alter the course of a disease or condition
|
|
|
Intracellular fluid (ICF) compartment
|
body fluid that is inside cells; accounts for about two-thirds of the total body water
|
|
|
Intracellular parasite
|
infectious microbe that lives inside host cells
|
|
|
Intradermal (ID)
|
medication administered into the dermis layer of the skin
|
|
|
Intramuscular (IM)
|
delivery of medication into specific muscles
|
|
|
Intravenous (IV)
|
medications and fluids administered directly into the bloodstream
|
|
|
Intrinsic factor
|
chemical substance secreted by the parietal cells in the stomach that is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12
|
|
|
Intrinsic factor
|
chemical substance secreted by the parietal cells in the stomach that is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12
|
|
|
Ionizing radiation
|
radiation that is highly penetrating and can cause serious biologic effects
|
|
|
Irritable bowel syndrome
|
inflammatory disease of the small or large intestine, characterized by intense abdominal cramping and diarrhea
|
|
|
Islets of Langerhans
|
cell clusters in the pancreas responsible for the secretion of insulin and glucagon
|
|
|
Jejunum
|
middle portion of small intestine between the duodenum and the ileum
|
|
|
Justice
|
ethical principle that persons who have similar circumstances should be treated alike
|
|
|
Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS)
|
vascular cancer that first appears on the skin and then invades internal organs; frequently occurs in AIDS patients
|
|
|
Keratolytic
|
action that promotes shedding of old skin
|
|
|
Ketoacids
|
acidic waste products of lipid metabolism that lower the pH of the blood
|
|
|
Latent phase
|
period of HIV infection during which there are no symptoms
|
|
|
Laxative
|
drug that promotes defecation
|
|
|
Lecithin
|
phospholipid that is an important component of cell membranes
|
|
|
Leukemia
|
cancer of the blood characterized by overproduction of white blood cells
|
|
|
Leukotrienes
|
chemical mediators of inflammation stored and released by mast cells; effects are similar to those of histamine
|
|
|
Leutinizing hormone (LH)
|
secreted by the pituitary gland, triggers ovulation in the female and stimulates sperm production in the male
|
|
|
Leutinizing hormone (LH)
|
secreted by the pituitary gland, triggers ovulation in the female and stimulates sperm production in the male
|
|
|
Libido
|
interest in sexual activity
|
|
|
Lipodystrophy atrophy
|
increase or decrease of subcutaneous fat at an insulin injection site, resulting in an indenture or a raised area
|
|
|
Lipoprotein
|
substance carrying lipids in the bloodstream that is composed of proteins bound to fat
|
|
|
Liposome
|
small sacs of lipids designed to carry drugs inside them
|
|
|
Loading dose
|
comparatively large dose given at the beginning of treatment to rapidly obtain the therapeutic effect of a drug
|
|
|
Loop of Henle
|
portion of the nephron between the proximal and distal tubules
|
|
|
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
|
lipid-carrying particle that contains relatively low amounts of protein and high amounts of cholesterol; considered to be “bad” cholesterol
|
|
|
Low-molecular-weight heparins
|
(LMWH) drugs closely resembling heperan that inhibit blood clotting
|
|
|
Lymphoma
|
cancer of lymphatic tissue
|
|
|
Macromineral (major mineral)
|
inorganic compound needed by the body in amounts of 100 mg or more daily
|
|
|
Maintenance dose
|
dose that keeps the plasma drug concentration continuously in the therapeutic range
|
|
|
Malaria
|
tropical disease characterized by severe fever and chills caused by the protozoan Plasmodium
|
|
|
Malignant
|
life threatening or fatal
|
|
|
Mast cell
|
connective tissue cell located in tissue spaces that releases histamine following injury
|
|
|
Mastoiditis
|
inflammation of the mastoid sinus
|
|
|
Mechanism of action
|
how a drug exerts its effects
|
|
|
Median effective dose (ED50)
|
dose required to produce a specific therapeutic response in 50% of a group of patients
|
|
|
Median lethal dose (LD50)
|
often determined in preclinical trials, the dose of drug that will be lethal in 50% of a group of animals
|
|
|
Median toxicity dose (TD50)
|
dose that will produce a given toxicity in 50% of a group of patients
|
|
|
Medication administration record
|
(MAR) documentation of all pharmacotherapies received by the patient
|
|
|
Medication error index
|
categorizes medication errors by evaluating the extent of the harm an error can cause
|
|
|
Medication error
|
any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in the control of the healthcare provider, patient, or consumer
|
|
|
Medication
|
drug after it has been administered
|
|
|
Menopause
|
period of time when females stop secreting estrogen and menstrual cycles cease
|
|
|
Menorrhagia
|
prolonged or excessive menstruation
|
|
|
Metabolism
|
total of all biochemical reactions in the body
|
|
|
Metastasis
|
travel of cancer cells from their original site to a distant tissue
|
|
|
Metered dose inhaler (MDI)
|
device used to deliver a precise amount of drug to the respiratory system
|
|
|
Methylxanthine
|
chemical derivative of caffeine
|
|
|
Metric system of measurement
|
most common system of drug measurement that uses grams and liters
|
|
|
Micromineral (trace mineral)
|
inorganic compound needed by the body in amounts of 20 mg or less daily
|
|
|
Middle-age adulthood
|
person from 40 to 65 years of age
|
|
|
Minimum effective concentration
|
the amount of drug required to produce a therapeutic effect
|
|
|
Miosis
|
constriction of the pupil
|
|
|
Miotics
|
drugs that cause pupil constriction
|
|
|
Mucolytic
|
drug used to loosen thick mucus
|
|
|
Mucolytic
|
drug used to loosen thick mucus
|
|
|
Mucosa layer
|
inner lining of the alimentary canal that provides a surface area for the various acids, bases, and enzymes to break down food
|
|
|
Mucositis
|
inflammation of the epithelial lining of the digestive tract
|
|
|
Mutation
|
permanent, inheritable change to DNA
|
|
|
Mycoses
|
diseases caused by fungi
|
|
|
Mydriatic drugs
|
agents that cause pupil dilation
|
|
|
Myocardial infarction
|
blood clot blocking a portion of a coronary artery that causes necrosis of cardiac muscle
|
|
|
Myocardial ischemia
|
lack of blood supply to the myocardium due to a constriction or obstruction of a blood vessel
|
|
|
Myxedema
|
condition caused by insufficient secretion of thyroid hormone
|
|
|
Narrow-spectrum antibiotic
|
anti-infective that is effective against only one or a small number of organisms
|
|
|
Nausea
|
uncomfortable wave-like sensation that precedes vomiting
|
|
|
NDA review
|
third stage of new drug evaluation by the FDA
|
|
|
Nebulizer
|
device used to convert liquid drugs into a fine mist for the purpose of inhalation
|
|
|
Negative feedback
|
in homeostasis, when the first hormone in a pathway is shut off by the last hormone or product in the pathway
|
|
|
Neoplasm
|
an abnormal swelling or mass, same as tumor
|
|
|
Nephron
|
structural and functional unit of the kidney
|
|
|
Nerve agents
|
chemicals used in warfare or by bioterrorists that can affect the central nervous system and cause death
|
|
|
Neurogenic shock
|
type of shock resulting from brain or spinal cord injury
|
|
|
Neurohypophysis
|
posterior portion of the pituitary gland
|
|
|
Nit
|
egg of the louse parasite
|
|
|
Nonmaleficence
|
ethical obligation to not harm the patient
|
|
|
Nonspecific body defenses
|
defenses such as inflammation that protect the body from invasion by general hazards
|
|
|
Nonspecific cellular responses
|
drug action that is independent of cellular receptors, and not associated with other mechanisms, such as changing the permeability of cellular membranes, depressing membrane excitability, or altering the activity of cellular pumps
|
|
|
Nosocomial infections
|
infection acquired in a healthcare setting such as a hospital, physician’s office, or nursing home
|
|
|
Nurse Practice Act
|
legislation designed to protect the public by defining the legal scope of practice
|
|
|
Nursing diagnosis
|
clinical-based judgment about the patient and his or her response to health and illness
|
|
|
Nursing process
|
a five-part systematic decision-making method that includes assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation
|
|
|
Objective data
|
information gathered through physical assessment, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic sources
|
|
|
Older adulthood
|
person over age 65
|
|
|
Oligomenorrhea
|
infrequent menstruation
|
|
|
Oligospermia
|
presence of less than 20 million sperm in an ejaculate
|
|
|
Oncogenes
|
genes responsible for the conversion of normal cells into cancer cells
|
|
|
Open-angle glaucoma
|
chronic, simple glaucoma caused by hindered outflow of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber
|
|
|
Orthostatic hypotension
|
fall in blood pressure that occurs when changing position from recumbent to upright
|
|
|
Osmolality
|
number of dissolved particles or solutes, in 1 kg (1 L) of water
|
|
|
Osmosis
|
process by which water moves from areas of low solute concentration (low osmolality) to areas of high solute concentration (high osmolality)
|
|
|
Osteoarthritis
|
disorder characterized by degeneration of joints, particularly the fingers, spine, hips, and knees
|
|
|
Osteomalacia
|
rickets in children; caused by vitamin D deficiency characterized by softening of the bones without alteration of basic bone structure
|
|
|
Osteoporosis
|
condition in which bones lose mass and become brittle and susceptible to fracture
|
|
|
Otitis media
|
inflammation of the middle ear
|
|
|
Ototoxicity
|
having an adverse effect on the organs of hearing
|
|
|
Outcome
|
objective measures of goals
|
|
|
Ovulation
|
release of an egg by the ovary
|
|
|
Oxytocin
|
hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary gland that stimulates uterine contractions and milk ejection
|
|
|
Paget’s disease
|
disorder of bone formation and resorption characterized by weak, enlarged, and deformed bones
|
|
|
Palliation
|
form of cancer chemotherapy intended to alleviate symptoms rather than cure the disease
|
|
|
Pancreatitis
|
inflammaton of the pancreas which may be acute or chronic
|
|
|
Parafollicular cells
|
cells in the thyroid gland that secrete calcitonin
|
|
|
Parenteral route
|
dispensing of medications via a needle into the skin layers
|
|
|
Parietal cells
|
cells in the stomach mucosa that secrete hydrochloric acid
|
|
|
Partial agonist
|
medication that produces a weaker, or less efficacious, response than an agonist
|
|
|
Passive immunity
|
immune defense that lasts 2 to 3 weeks; obtained by administering antibodies
|
|
|
Pathogen
|
organism that is capable of causing disease
|
|
|
Pathogenicity
|
ability of an organism to cause disease in humans
|
|
|
Pediculicides
|
medications that kill lice
|
|
|
Pegylation
|
process that attaches polyethylene glycol (PEG) to an interferon to extend its pharmacologic activity
|
|
|
Pellagra
|
deficiency of niacin
|
|
|
Peptic ulcer
|
erosion of the mucosa in the alimentary canal, most commonly in the stomach and duodenum
|
|
|
Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA)
|
procedure by which a balloon-shaped catheter is used to compress fatty plaque against an arterial wall for the purpose of restoring normal blood flow
|
|
|
Perfusion
|
blood flow through a tissue or organ
|
|
|
Peripheral edema
|
swelling in the limbs, particularly the feet and ankles, due to an accumulation of interstitial fluid
|
|
|
Peripheral resistance
|
the amount of friction encountered by blood as it travels through the vessels
|
|
|
Peristalsis
|
involuntary wavelike contraction of smooth muscle lining the alimentary canal
|
|
|
Pernicious (megaloblastic) anemia
|
type of anemia usually caused by lack of secretion of intrinsic factor
|
|
|
Pernicious anemia
|
(megaloblastic) type of anemia usually caused by lack of secretion of intrinsic factor
|
|
|
pH
|
a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution
|
|
|
Pharmacodynamics
|
the study of how the body responds to drugs
|
|
|
Pharmacogenetics
|
the area of pharmacology that examines the role of genetics in drug response
|
|
|
Pharmacokinetics
|
the study of how drugs are handled by the body
|
|
|
Pharmacologic classification
|
method for organizing drugs on the basis of their mechanism of action
|
|
|
Pharmacology
|
the study of medicines; the discipline pertaining to how drugs improve or maintain health
|
|
|
Pharmacopoeia
|
medical reference indicating standards of drug purity, strength, and directions for synthesis
|
|
|
Pharmacotherapy
|
treatment or prevention of disease by means of drugs
|
|
|
Phosphodiesterase
|
enzyme in muscle cells that cleaves phosphodiester bonds; its inhibition increases myocardial contractility
|
|
|
Phospholipid
|
type of lipid that contains two fatty acids, a phosphate group, and a chemical backbone of glycerol
|
|
|
Photosensitivity
|
condition that occurs when the skin is highly sensitive to sunlight
|
|
|
Physical dependence
|
condition of experiencing unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when a substance is discontinued
|
|
|
Planning
|
links strategies, or interventions to established goals and outcomes
|
|
|
Plaque
|
fatty material that builds up in the lining of blood vessels and may lead to hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction, or angina
|
|
|
Plasma cell
|
cell derived from B lymphocytes that produces antibodies
|
|
|
Plasma half-life (t1/2)
|
the length of time required for a drug to decrease its concentration in the plasma by one-half after administration
|
|
|
Plasmid
|
small piece of circular DNA found in some bacteria that is able to transfer resistance from one bacterium to another
|
|
|
Plasmin
|
enzyme formed from plasminogen that dissolves blood clots
|
|
|
Plasminogen
|
protein that prevents fibrin clot formation; precuror of plasmin
|
|
|
Polarized
|
condition in which the inside of a cell is more negatively charged than the outside of the cell
|
|
|
Polyene
|
antifungal class containing amphotericin B and nystatin
|
|
|
Polypharmacy
|
the taking of multiple drugs concurrently
|
|
|
Postmarketing surveillance
|
evaluation of a new drug after it has been approved and used in large numbers of patients
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Postpartum
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occurring after childbirth
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Potassium ion channel
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pathway in a plasma membrane through which potassium ions enter and leave
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Potency
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the strength of a drug at a specified concentration or dose
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Preclinical investigation
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procedure implemented after a drug has been licensed for public use, designed to provide information on use and on occurrence of side effects
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Preload
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degree of stretch of the cardiac muscle fibers just before they contract
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Prenatal
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preceding birth
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Preschool child
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child from 3 to 5 years of age
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Presynaptic neuron
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nerve that releases the neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft when stimulated by an action potential
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PRN order
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(Latin: pro re nata) medication is administered as required by the patient's condition
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Prodrug
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drug that becomes more active after it is metabolized
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Progesterone
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hormone secreted by the corpus luteum and placenta responsible for building up the uterine lining in the second half of the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy
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Prolactin
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hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates milk production in the mammary glands
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Prostaglandins
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class of local hormones that promotes local inflammation and pain when released by cells in the body
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Prostaglandins
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class of local hormones that promotes local inflammation and pain when released by cells in the body
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Protease
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viral enzyme that is responsible for the final assembly of the HIV virions
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Prothrombin activator
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enzyme in the coagulation cascade that converts prothrombin to thrombin; also called prothrombinase
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Prothrombin time
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blood test used to determine the time needed for plasma to clot for the regulation of warfarin dosage
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Prothrombin
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blood protein that is converted to thrombin in blood coagulation
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Proton pump inhibitors
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drugs that inhibit the enzyme H1, K1-ATPase
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Prototype drug
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well-understood model drug to which other drugs in a pharmacologic class may be compared
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Protozoan
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single-celled animal
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Provitamins
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inactive chemicals that are converted to vitamins in the body
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Proximal tubule
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portion of the nephron that collects filtrate from Bowman’s capsule
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Pruritus
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itching associated with dry, scaly skin
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Psoralen
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drug used along with phototherapy for the treatment of psoriasis and other severe skin disorders
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Psychedelics
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substances that alter perception and reality
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Psychological dependence
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intense craving for a drug that drives people to continue drug abuse withdrawn
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Psychology
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science that deals with normal and abnormal mental processes and their impact on behavior
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Purkinje fibers
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electrical conduction pathway leading from the bundle branches to all portions of the ventricles
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Reabsorption
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movement of filtered substances from the kidney tubule back into the blood
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Reasonable and prudent action
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defines the standard of care as the actions that a reasonable and prudent nurse with equivalent preparation would do under similar circumstances
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Rebound congestion
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condition of hypersecretion of mucus following use of intranasal sympathomimetics
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Receptor
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the structural component of a cell to which a drug binds in a dose-related manner, to produce a response
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Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)
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amount of vitamin or mineral needed each day to avoid a deficiency in a healthy adult
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Red-man syndrome
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rash on the upper body caused by certain anti-infectives
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Reflex tachycardia
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temporary increase in heart rate that occurs when blood pressure falls
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Refractory period
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time during which the myocardial cells rest and are not able to contract
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Refractory period
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time during which the myocardial cells rest and are not able to contract
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Releasing hormone
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hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that affects secretions in the pituitary gland
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Renin-angiotensin system
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series of enzymatic steps by which the body raises blood pressure
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Reticular formation
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portion of the brain affecting awareness and wakefulness
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Retinoid
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compound resembling Vitamin A used in the treatment of severe acne and psoriasis
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Reverse cholesterol transport
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the process by which cholesterol is transported away from body tissues to the liver
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Reverse transcriptase
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viral enzyme that converts RNA to DNA
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Reye’s syndrome
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potentially fatal complication of infection associated with aspirin use in children
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rhabdomyolisis
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breakdown of muscle fibers usually due to muscle trauma or ischemia
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of multiple joints
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Rhinophyma
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reddened, bullous, irregular swelling of the nose
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Risk management
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seeking means of reducing medication errors by modifying policies and procedures within the institution
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Rosacea
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chronic skin disorder characterized by clusters of papules on the face
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Routine order
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orders not written as STAT, ASAP, NOW, or PRN
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Salicylism
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poisoning due to aspirin and aspirinlike drugs
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Sarcoma
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cancer of connective tissue such as bone, muscle, or cartilage
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Scabicides
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drugs that kill scabies mites
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Scabies
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skin disorder caused by the female mite burrowing into the skin and laying eggs
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Scheduled drug
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in the United States, a term describing a drug placed into one of five categories based on its potential for misuse or abuse
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School-age child
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child from 6 to 12 years of age
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Scurvy
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deficiency of vitamin C
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Seborrhea
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skin condition characterized by overactivity of oil glands
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Second messenger
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cascade of biochemical events that initiates a drug's action by either stimulating or inhibiting a normal activity of the cell
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Secretion
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in the kidney, movement of substances from the blood into the tubule after filtration has occurred
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Sedative
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substance that depresses the CNS to cause drowsiness or sleep
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Selective estrogen receptor modulator
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(SERM) drug that produces an action similar to estrogen in body tissues; used for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
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Septic shock
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type of shock caused by severe infection in the bloodstream
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Shock
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condition in which there is inadequate blood flow to meet the body’s metabolic needs
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Single order
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medication that is to be given only once, and at a specific time, such as a preoperative order
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Sinoatrial (SA) node
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pacemaker of the heart located in the wall of the right atrium that controls the basic heart rate
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Sinus rhythm
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number of beats per minute normally generated by the SA node
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Sociology
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study of human behavior within the context of groups and societies
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Sodium ion channel
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pathway in a plasma membrane through which sodium ions enter and leave
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Somastatin
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synonym for growth hormone inhibiting factor from the hypothalamus
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Somatotropin
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another name for growth hormone
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Somogyi phenomenon
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rapid decrease in blood glucose which stimulates the release of hormones (epinephrine, cortisol, glucagon) resulting in an elevated morning blood glucose
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Specialty supplement
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nonherbal dietary products used to enhance a wide variety of body functions
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Spirituality
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the capacity to love, to convey compassion and empathy, to give and forgive, to enjoy life, and to find peace of mind and fulfillment in living
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Stable angina
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type of angina that occurs in a predictable pattern, usually relieved by rest
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Standards of care
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the skills and learning commonly possessed by members of a profession
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Standing order
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order written in advance of a situation, which is to be carried out under specific circumstances
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STAT order
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any medication that is needed immediately, and is to be given only once
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Status epilepticus
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condition characterized by repeated seizures or one prolonged seizure attack that continues for at least 30 minutes
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Steatorrhea
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stool containing high content of fat as occurs in some malabsorption syndromes
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Stem cell
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cell that resides in the bone marrow, and is capable of maturing into any type of blood cell
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Steroid
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type of lipid which consists of four rings that comprise certain hormones and drugs
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Sterol nucleus
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ring structure common to all steroids
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Strategic National Stockpile (SNS)
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program designed to ensure the immediate deployment of essential medical materials to a community in the event of a large-scale chemical or biologic attack
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Stroke volume
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amount of blood pumped out by a ventricle in a single beat
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Subcutaneous (SC or SQ)
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medication delivered beneath the skin
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Subjective data
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information gathered regarding what a patient states or perceives
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Sublingual route
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medication that is placed under the tongue, and allowed to dissolve slowly
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Substance abuse
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self-administration of a drug that does not conform to the medical or social norms within the patient's given culture or society
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Superinfection
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new infection caused by an organism different from the one causing the initial infection; usually a side effect of anti-infective therapy
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Sustained release
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tablets or capsules designed to dissolve slowly over an extended time
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Systolic pressure
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blood pressure during the contraction phase of heart activity
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T cell
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type of lymphocyte that is essential for the cell-mediated immune response
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Taxanes
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alkaloids isolated from bark of Pacific yew and used for antineoplastic activity; current drugs include paclitaxel (Taxol) and docetaxel (Taxotere), but more than 19 others are being investigated
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Taxoids
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antineoplastic drugs obtained from the Pacific Yew tree
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Teratogen
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drug or other agent that causes developmental birth defects
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Testosterone
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primary androgen responsible for maturation of male sex organs and secondary sex characteristics of men; secretes by testes
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Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
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the active chemical in marijuana
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Therapeutic classification
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method for organizing drugs on the basis of their clinical usefulness
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Therapeutic index
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the ratio of a drug's LD50 to its ED50
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Therapeutic range
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the dosage range or serum concentration that achieves the desired drug effects
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Therapeutics
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the branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of disease and suffering
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Three checks of drug administration
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in conjunction with the five rights, these ascertain patient safety and drug effectiveness
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Thrombin
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enzyme that causes clotting by forming thrombin
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Thrombocytopenia
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reduction in the number of circulating platelets
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Thromboembolic disorder
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condition in which the patient develops blood clots
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Thrombolytics
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drugs used to dissolve existing blood clots
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Thrombopoietin
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hormone produced by the kidneys that controls megakaryocyte activity
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Thrombotic stroke
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type of stroke caused by a blood clot blocking an artery in the brain
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Thrombus
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blood clot obstructing a vessel
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Thyrotoxic crisis
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acute form of hyperthyroidism that is a medical emergency; also called thyroid storm
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Tissue plasminogen activator
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(tPA) natural enzyme and a drug that dissolves blood clots
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Titer
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measurement of the amount of a substance in the blood
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Tocolytic
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drug used to inhibit uterine contractions
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Tocopherol
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generic name for vitamin E
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Toddlerhood
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child from 1 to 3 years of age
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Tolerance
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process of adapting to a drug over a period of time, and subsequently requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect
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Tonicity
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the ability of a solution to cause a change in water movement across a membrane due to osmotic forces
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Tonometry
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technique for measuring intraocular tension and pressure
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Topoisomerase
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enzyme that assists in the repair of DNA damage
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Total parenteral nutrition
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(TPN) nutrition provided through a peripheral or central vein
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Toxic concentration
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level of drug that will result in serious adverse effects
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Toxin
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chemical produced by a microorganism that is able to cause injury to its host
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Toxoid
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substance that has been chemically modified to remove its harmful nature but is still able to elicit an immune response in the body
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Trade name
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proprietary name of a drug assigned by the manufacturer; also called the brand name or product name
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Transferrin
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protein complex that transports iron to the sites in the body where it is needed
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Transplant rejection
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when the immune system recognizes a transplanted tissue as being foreign and attacks it
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Triglyceride
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type of lipid that contains three fatty acids and a chemical backbone of glycerol
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Tubercles
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cavitylike lesions in the lung characteristic of infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis
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Tumor
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abnormal swelling or mass
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Ulcerative colitis
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inflammatory bowel disease of the colon
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Undernutrition
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lack of adequate nutrition to meet the metabolic demands of the body
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Unstable angina
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severe angina that occurs frequently, and which is not relieved by rest
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Urinalysis
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diagnostic test that examines urine for the presence of blood cells, proteins, pH, specific gravity, ketones, glucose, and microorganisms
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Vaccination immunization
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receiving a vaccine or toxoid to prevent disease
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Vaccine
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biologic material that confers protection against infection; preparation of microorganism particles that is injected into a patient to stimulate the immune system, with the intention of preventing disease
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Vaccine
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biologic material that confers protection against infection; preparation of microorganism particles that is injected into a patient to stimulate the immune system, with the intention of preventing disease
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Variant angina
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chest pain that is caused by acute spasm of the coronary arteries rather than by physical or emotional exertion
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Vasomotor center
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area of the medulla that controls baseline blood pressure
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Vasospastic or Prinzmetal’s angina
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a type of angina in which the decreased myocardial blood flow is caused by spasms of the coronary arteries
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Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI)
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supplies and pharmaceuticals that are shipped after a chemical or biological threat has been identified
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Ventilation
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process by which air is moved into and out of the lungs
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Veracity
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the ethical obligation to tell the truth
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Very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL)
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lipid-carrying particle that is converted to LDL in the liver
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Vesicant
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agents that can cause serious tissue injury if they escape from an artery or vein during an infusion or injection (extravasation); many antineoplastics are vesicants
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Vestibular apparatus
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portion of the inner ear responsible for the sense of position
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Vinca alkaloids
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chemicals obtained from the periwinkle plant that have antineoplastic activity
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Virion
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particle of a virus capable of causing an infection
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Virulence
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the severity of disease that a pathogen is able to cause
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Virulization
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appearance of masculine secondary sex characteristics
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Virus
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nonliving particle containing nucleic acid that is able to cause disease
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Vitamins
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organic compounds required by the body in small amounts
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Vitiligo
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milk-white areas of depigmented skin
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Vomiting center
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area in the medulla that controls the vomiting reflex
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Von Willebrand’s disease
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decrease in quantity or quality of von Willebrand factor (vWF), which acts as a carrier of factor VIII and has a role in platelet aggregation
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Withdrawal syndrome
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symptoms that result when a patient discontinues taking a substance upon which he or she was dependent
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Withdrawal
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physical signs of discomfort associated with the discontinuation of an abused substance
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Yeast
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type of fungus that is unicellular and divides by budding
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Young adulthood
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person from 18 to 40 years of age
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Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
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disorder of having excess acid secretion in the stomach resulting in peptic ulcer disease
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