Understanding Para Medical Terms: A Guide to Medical Vocabulary
Introduction
Para medical terms are a crucial part of the healthcare industry. These terms are used to describe various medical conditions, diagnoses, treatments, and procedures. As a healthcare professional or student, it is essential to have a solid understanding of para medical terms to communicate effectively with colleagues and patients.
What Does the Para- Prefix Mean?
The prefix “para-” comes from the Greek word meaning “beside” or “alongside”. In medical terminology, it is used to indicate something that is alongside or near a particular structure or system. This prefix can be used to indicate various relationships, such as:
- Alongside or near a particular organ, such as “parathyroid” which are small glands located next to the thyroid gland
- Alongside or near a particular structure, such as “paraspinal” which refers to the muscles alongside the spinal column
- Alongside or near a particular location, such as “paranasal” which refers to structures near the nasal cavity
- Alongside or near a particular symptom, such as “parageusia” which is a distortion of the sense of taste
Importance of Understanding Para Medical Terms
Para medical terms are used throughout the healthcare industry, from medical charts and reports to diagnoses and treatment plans. Without a proper understanding of these terms, it can be challenging to communicate with patients and colleagues and accurately understand medical information.
Common Para Medical Terms
Para medical terms can be divided into three main categories: anatomy and physiology terms, diagnostic and lab testing terms, and medical procedures and treatments terms. Here are some examples of common para medical terms in each category:
Anatomy and Physiology Terms
- Anterior – front of the body
- Posterior – back of the body
- Ventral – toward the front of the body
- Dorsal – toward the back of the body
- Medial – toward the midline of the body
- Lateral – away from the midline of the body
Diagnostic and Lab Testing Terms
- Blood pressure – the pressure of blood against the walls of blood vessels
- Complete blood count (CBC) – a test that measures various components of the blood
- Computed tomography (CT) – a diagnostic imaging test that uses X-rays to create detailed images of the body
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – a diagnostic imaging test that uses magnetic fields to create detailed images of the body
- Urinalysis – a test that examines the urine for signs of disease or infection
Medical Procedures and Treatments Terms
- Bronchoscopy – a medical procedure that examines the airways and lungs
- Colonoscopy – a medical procedure that examines the colon and rectum
- Hemodialysis – a medical treatment that removes waste products from the blood
- Intubation – a medical procedure that involves inserting a tube into the windpipe to help with breathing
- Laparoscopy – a medical procedure that examines the abdominal organs
Understanding Para Medical Terms
Breaking Down Complex Terms
Para medical terms can be complex and difficult to understand at first. However, they can be broken down into smaller parts, such as prefixes, suffixes, and root words, to make them easier to understand.
Using Online Resources for Learning Para Medical Terms
There are many online resources available to help you learn para medical terms. Some of these resources include medical dictionaries, flashcards, and online courses. Using these resources can help you learn and memorize para medical terms more efficiently.
Applications of Para Medical Terms
Communicating with Healthcare Professionals
Para medical terms are used extensively in healthcare communication. Understanding these terms can help you communicate more effectively with healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other medical staff, and can ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to discussing medical conditions, diagnoses, and treatment plans.
Explaining Medical Conditions to Patients
Para medical terms can also be used to explain medical conditions and treatment plans to patients. However, it’s important to use plain language and avoid overwhelming patients with too much technical jargon. Breaking down complex terms into simpler language can help patients better understand their condition and treatment options.
Conclusion
Para medical terms are a crucial part of the healthcare industry. Understanding these terms is essential for effective communication with colleagues and patients, as well as for accurate interpretation of medical information. By breaking down complex terms, using online resources, and applying these terms in healthcare communication, you can become proficient in para medical vocabulary and improve your healthcare practice.
