Construct and define the word parts for various medical conditions or procedures

Construct and define the word parts for various medical conditions or procedures

LO 01.03 – Construct and define the word parts related to body cavities, organs and structures of the human body

LO 01.04 – Construct and define the word parts related to the 12 body systems

Career Relevancy

We have a perpetuation of the map of the body. Understanding the terminology used in the various systems is a continuation of the systems, organs, and structures from last week. Remember that fully understanding the patient’s bodily structures and how to differentiate the location of patient complaints by specific directional terminology allows us to better communicate with the physician and other medical professionals the specific needs of the patient.

Background

MED100_wk4_A.jpgLearning medical terminology is one thing in theory. But this theory and cognitive concepts alone won’t propel your career. No, what your career will be based on is your application skills. How well you are able to apply medical terminology to real-life situations is what will make you a successful medical assistant. Now that you know more about various medical terms, it is time to apply that knowledge. Again, this is what your career will be all about after all—applying the things you have learned here.

This week, you will be examining a patient’s file with the purpose of answering questions that are similar to what you will experience as a medical assistant. Answering these questions thoughtfully will help further prepare you for your career as each question relates to medical conditions and various abbreviations that you will come across during your career.

Applying Medical Terminology

Understanding medical conditions is important because you will treat a variety of patients, many of whom will have different disorders. Being familiar with these disorders will enable you as a medical assistant to ask the right questions, which will help in the diagnosis process and the treatment plan. So, why is medical terminology so important?

First, it provides a clear method of communication for medical professionals. Instead of saying that there is something wrong with a patient’s stomach, you can say that a patient has diverticulitis. This describes the patient’s exact condition, which makes it easier for other medical professionals to know what is wrong and how to solve the problem in a more streamlined manner.

Next, using the proper medical term helps improve patient safety. Since medical terms used in conjunction with appropriate abbreviations are highly specific, medical professionals have a clear understanding of the condition of a patient and the treatment plan steps including medications and procedures. This helps make sure everyone is on the same page and has all the relevant information needed to promote patient safety and patient care.

Finally, using medical terminology around patients may be confusing to the patient, but when it is done in a conversational manner, it can actually serve to enhance the patient’s experience by providing the patient with a learning opportunity. Again, be sure this is done in a considerate manner as your primary focus is to care for the patient. However, keep in mind that part of patient care is patient education. The more they understand about their condition and the treatment plans recommended, the better they are equipped and informed to make better choices for themselves relating to their care.

Prompt

For this assignment, you will begin navigating EHR Go to learn how medical terminology is used in healthcare.

Part 1: Access the EHR Go assignment by clicking HERE (Links to an external site.) and the activity document and additional resources.

Part 2: Once you complete the questions on the worksheet, save and submit your document.