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Final Exam

Quiz yourself by thinking what should be in each of the black spaces below before clicking on it to display the answer.
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Term
Definition
biologics   chemical agents that produce biological responses within the body; they are synthesized by cells of the human body, animal cells, or microorganisms  
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clinical pharmacology   an area of medicine devoted to the evaluation of drugs used for human therapeutic benefit  
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formularies   lists of drugs and drug recipes commonly used by pharmacists  
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natural alternative therapies   herbs, natural extracts, vitamins, minerals or dietary supplements  
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pathophysiology   the study of diseases and the functional changes occurring in the body as a result of diseases  
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pharmaceutics   the science of preparing and dispensing drugs  
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pharmacology   the study of medicines; the discipline pertaining to how drugs improve the health of the human body  
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therapeutics   the branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of disease and suffering  
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bioavailability   the ability of a drug to reach its target cells and produce its effect  
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chemical name   strict chemical nomenclature used for naming drugs established the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC)  
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combination drugs   drug product with more than one active generic ingredient  
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controlled substance   in the United States, a drug 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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generic name   nonproprietary name of a drug assigned by the government  
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mechanism of action   how a drug exerts its effects  
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pharmacologic classification   method for organizing drugs on the basis of their mechanism of action (how they work pharmacologically)  
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prototype drug   an original, well-understood drug model from which other drugs in a pharmacologic class have been developed  
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restricted drugs   in Canada, a drug not intended for human use, covered in Part IV, Schedule H, of the Canadian Food and Drugs Act  
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scheduled drugs   in the United States, a term describing a drug placed into on of five categories (I through V) based on its potential for misuse or abuse  
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therapeutic classification   method for organizing drugs on the basis of their therapeutic usefulness  
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trade name   proprietary name of a drug assigned by the manufacturer; also called the brand name or product name  
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allergic reaction   a hyperresponse of body tissues to a foreign substance (allergen), in which patients experience uncomfortable and potentially serious symptoms, including difficulty breathing, pain, swelling, skin rash, and other unfavorable signs  
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anaphylaxis   an acute allergic response to an antigen that results in severe hypotension and may cause death if untreated  
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apothecary system   former system of weights and measures used by health care providers and pharmacists; replaced by the metric system  
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ASAP order   means "as soon as possible"; a physician's order referring to the time frame that is often defined as less than 30 minutes  
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astringent effect   the shrinkage of swollen membranes or binding together of body surface material  
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buccal route   the administration of medications by the cheek or mouth  
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compliance   taking a medication in the way it was prescribed by the practitioner; in the case of OTC drugs, following the instructions found on the label  
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enteral route   the major route by which drugs enter the body through the digestive tract  
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enteric-coated   hard, waxy coating that enables drugs to resist the acidity of the stomach; enables drugs to dissolve in the small intestine  
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household systems   older system of measurement involving teaspoons, tablespoons, cups, drops, pounds, etc  
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intradermal (ID) route   method of parenteral drug delivery in which drugs are injected into the dermis of the skin  
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intramuscular (IM) route   method of parenteral drug delivery in which drugs are injected into layers of muscle beneath the skin  
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intravenous (IV) route   method of parenteral drug delivery in which drugs are injected into the venous circulation  
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metric system   the most common system of measurement  
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parenteral route   the major route by which drugs enter the body other than the enteral or topical route  
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prn order   Latin; pro re nata; physician's order; means 'to administer as required by the patient's condition'  
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routine orders   standard order usually carried out within 2 hours of the time it was written by the physician  
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single order   a physician's order for a drug that is to be given only once at a specific time; an example is a preoperative order  
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six rights of drug administration   practical guidelines for nurses to use during drug preparation, delivery, and administration of drugs  
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standing order   a physician's order written in advance of a situation, which is to be carried out under specific circumstances  
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STAT order   comes from statim, the Latin word meaning 'immediately'; the time frame between writing the STAT order and administering the drug may be 5 minutes or less, depending on facility rules  
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subcutaneous (SC or SQ) route   method of parenteral drug delivery in which drugs are injected into the hypodermis of the skin  
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sublingual (SL) route   method of enteral drug delivery in which drugs are placed under the tongue  
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sustained-release   tablets or capsules that are designed to dissolve very slowly  
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three checks of drug administration   checks used by nurses together with the six rights to help ensure patient safety and drug effectivness  
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topical route   the route by which drugs are placed directly onto the skin and associated membranes  
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transdermal   method of drug delivery, usually by a patch, in which drugs are absorbed across the layers of the skin for the purpose of entering the bloodstream  
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transmucosal   method of topical drug delivery in which drugs are applied directly to mucosal membranes, including the nasal and respiratory pathways and vagina  
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absorption   the process of moving a drug across body membranes  
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agonists   drugs that are capable of binding with receptors in order to cause a cellular response  
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antagonists   drugs that block the response of another drug  
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biotransformation   the chemical conversion of drugs from one form to another that may result in increased or decreased activity  
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distribution   the process of transporting drugs through the body  
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efficacy   the effectiveness of a drug in producing a more intense response as its concentration is increased  
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enterohepatic recirculation   recycling of drugs and other substances by the circulation of bile through the intestine and liver  
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excretion   the process of removing substances from the body  
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first-pass effect   a mechanism whereby drugs are absorbed across the intestinal wall and enter into blood vessels, known as the hepatic portal circulation, which carries blood directly to the liver  
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half-life (t1/2)   the length of time required for a drug to decrease its concentration in the plasma by one half of the original amount  
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metabolism   the sum total of all chemical reactions in the body or an organ (for example, the liver)  
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pharmacodynamics   the study of how the body responds to drugs and natural substances  
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pharmacokinetics   the study of what the body does to drugs  
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potency   the power or strength of a drug at a specified concentration or dose  
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prodrugs   drugs that become more active after they are metabolized  
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receptor   the structural component of a cell to which a drug binds in a dose-related manner to produce a response  
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receptor theory   a cellular mechanism by which most drugs produce their effects  
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assessment   appraisal of a patient's condition that involves gathering and interpreting data  
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etiologies   causes of the patient's disease or condition  
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evaluation criteria   objective assessment of the effectiveness and impact of interventions  
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evaluation phase   part of the nursing process that provides an objective assessment of the effectiveness of the interventions  
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goal   an objective that the patient or nurse seeks to attain or achieve  
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implementation phase   part of the nursing processing during which the nurse carries out activities that assist in accomplishing established goals  
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interventions   action that produces an effect or that is intended to alther the course of a disease or condition  
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nursing diagnosis   clinically based judgement about the patient and his or her response to health and illness  
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nursing process   five-part decision-making system that includes assessment, nursing diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation  
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outcome   objective measure of goals  
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planning phase   stage of the nursing process that links strategies or interventions to established goals and outcomes  
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botanicals   a plant extract used to treat or prevent illness  
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complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)   general term for treatments that consider the health of the whole person and promote disease prevention  
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Dietary Supplement and Nonprescription Drug Consumer Protection Act   law that requires companies that market herbal and dietary supplements to include their address and phone number on the product labels so consumers can report adverse events  
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Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994   primary law in the United States regulating herb and dietary supplements  
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dietary supplements   a nondrug substance regulated by the DSHEA  
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herbs   plants with a soft stem that is used in healing or as a seasoning  
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specialty supplements   a nonherbal dietary supplement used to enhance body functions  
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addiction   the continued use of a substance despite its negative health and social consequences  
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alcohol intoxication   a condition of altered mental and physical function resulting from drinking more alcoholic beverages within a time frame than the body can tolerate  
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attention deficit disorder (ADD)   consistent difficulty in focusing attention on a task for a sufficient length of time  
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cross-tolerance   the process of adapting to a new drug as a result of having already been exposed to a related drug  
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designer drugs   drugs that are produced in a laboratory and are intended to mimic the effects of other psychoactive controlled substances  
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Narcolepsy   condition characterized by uncontrolled daytime sleepiness  
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Opioid   natural or synthetic morphine-like substance obtained from the unripe seeds of the poppy plant  
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physical dependence   the condition of experiencing unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when a substance is discontinued  
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psychedelics   substances that alter perception and reality  
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psychological dependence   an unpleasant, intense craving for a drug after it has been withdrawn  
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tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)   the active chemical in marijuana  
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tolerance   the process of adapting to a drug over time and requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect  
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withdrawal syndrome   unpleasant symptoms experienced when a physically dependent client discontinues the use of an abused drug  
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acetylcholine (Ach)   primary neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic nervous system; also present at somatic neuromuscular junctions and at parasympathetic and sympathetic preganglionic nerves  
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adrenergic   a term relating to nerves that release norepinephrine or epinephrine  
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adrenergic agent   another name for a sympathomimetic drug  
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adrenergic blockers   a drug that blocks the actions of the sympathetic nervous system  
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adrenergic drugs   another name for a sympathomimetic drug  
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alpha receptor   type of subreceptor found in the sympathetic nervous system  
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anticholinergics   drugs that inhibit the action of acetylcholine at its receptor  
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beta receptor   type of subreceptor found in the sympathetic nervous system  
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cholinergic   a term relating to nerves that release acetylcholine  
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cholinergic blockers   a drug that blocks the actions of the parasympathetic nervous system  
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cholinergic drugs   another name for parasympathomimetic drugs  
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ganglia   collections of neuron cell bodies located outside the CNS  
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muscarinic   type of cholinergic receptor found in smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands  
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nicotinic   type of cholinergic receptor found in ganglia of both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems  
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norepinephrine   primary neurotransmitter in the sympathetic nervous system  
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parasympathetic nervous system   portion of the autonomic system that is active during periods of rest and digestion  
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parasympathomimetics   drugs that mimic the actions of the parasympathetic nervous system  
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sympathetic nervous system   portion of the autonomic system that is active during periods of stress and which produces the fight-or-flight response  
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sympatholytic   a drug that blocks the actions of the sympathetic nervous system  
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sympathomimetic   a drug that mimics the actions of the sympathetic nervous system  
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antidepressants   drugs used for the treatment of depression and a range of anxiety disorders, including panic, obsessive-compulsive, social phobia, and post-traumatic stress disorders  
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anxiety   state of apprehension and autonomic nervous system activation resulting from exposure to a nonspecific or unknown cause  
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anxiolytics   drugs that relieve anxiety  
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barbiturates   class of drugs derived from barbituric acid; they act as CNS depressants and are used for their sedative and antiseizure effects  
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benzodiazepines   class of drugs used to treat anxiety and insomnia  
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black box warning   warning label surrounded by a black border and issued by the FDA to emphasize the important and serious life-threatening risks associated with the use of the drug  
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CNS depressants   drugs that lower neuronal activity within the CNS  
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generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)   difficult-to-control, excessive anxiety that lasts 6 months or more  
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insomnia   the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep  
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limbic system   area in the brain responsible for emotion, learning, memory, motivation, and mood  
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obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)   anxiety characterized by recurrent, intrusive thoughts or repetitive behaviors that interfere with normal activities or relationships  
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panic disorder   anxiety characterized by intense feelings of immediate apprehension, fearfulness, terror, or impending doom  
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phobias   fearful feelings attached to situations or objects  
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post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)   anxiety characterized by a sense of helplessness and the reexperiencing of a traumatic event, for example, war, physical or sexual abuse, natural disasters, or murder  
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rebound insomnia   increased sleeplessness that occurs when long-term antianxiety or hypnotic medication is discontinued  
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reticular activating system (RAS)   the brain structure that projects from the brainstem and thalamus to the cerebral cortex; responsible for sleeping and wakefulness and performs an alerting function  
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reticular formation   a network of neurons found along the entire length of the brainstem connected with the reticular activating system  
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sedative-hypnotic   drug that produces a calming effect when given in lower doses, and produces sleep when given in higher doses  
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sedatives   drugs that relax or calm the patient  
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antidepressants   drugs used for the treatment of depression and a range of anxiety disorders, including panic, obsessive-compulsive, social phobia, and post-traumatic stress disorders  
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attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)   a disorder typically diagnosed in childhood and adolescence characterized by hyperactivity as well as attention, organization, and behavior control issues  
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bipolar disorder   a disorder characterized by extreme and opposite feelings, such as euphoria and depression or calmness and rage; also called manic depression  
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dysthymic disorder   less severe type of mood disorder that may prevent a person from feeling well or functioning normally  
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major depressive disorder   a disorder characterized by at least five symptoms of depression  
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monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)   drugs inhibiting monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that terminates the actions of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and serotonin  
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mood disorder   a disorder involving a change in behavior, such as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder  
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mood stabilizers   drugs that level mood to treat bipolar disorder and mania  
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selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)   drugs that selectively inhibit the reuptake of serotonin into nerve terminals  
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serotonin syndrome (SES)   a set of signs and symptoms associated with overmedication with antidepressants  
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serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)   drugs that block the recycling of two neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinephrine  
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tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)   drugs with a three-ring chemical structure that inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin into nerve terminals  
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akathisia   uncontrolled limb and body movements  
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extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)   symptoms where muscles become very rigid because of overmedication with antipsychotics or by lack of dopamine function in the corpus striatum  
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negative symptoms   symptoms that subtract from normal behavior; signs that are used to assist with the diagnosis of schizophrenia  
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neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)   a potentially fatal condition caused by some antipsychotic medications; symptoms include an extremely high body temperature, drowsiness, changing blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and muscle rigidity  
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neuroleptics   drugs used to treat "nervous-type" conditions such as psychoses  
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parkinsonism   degenerative disorder of the nervous system caused by a deficiency of the brain neurotransmitter dopamine; this deficiency results in the disturbances of muscle movement  
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positive symptoms   symptoms that add on to normal behavior; signs that are used to assist with the diagnosis of schizophrenia  
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schizoaffective disorder   disorder with symptoms similar to schizophrenia and mood disorders  
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schizophrenia   type of psychosis characterized by abnormal thoughts and thought processes, withdrawal from other people and the outside environment, and apparent preoccupation with one's own mental state  
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tardive dyskinesia   involuntary movements of facial muscles and the tongue that occur due to long-term antipsychotic therapy  
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acetylcholinesterase (AchE)   an enzyme that degrades acetylcholine within the synapse, enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter  
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Alzheimer's disease (AD)   most common dementia, characterized by loss of memory, confusion, disorientation, and loss of judgment; hallucinations and delusions may also occur  
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Dementia   degenerative disorder characterized by progressive memory loss, confusion, and the inability to think or communicate effectively  
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Dystonia   muscle spasm characterized by rigidity and abnormal, occasionally painful, movements or postures  
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multiple sclerosis (MS)   autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system; a condition in which antibodies slowly destroy tissues in the brain and spinal cord  
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neuromuscular blocking agents   drugs that bind to acetylcholine receptors, preventing contraction of skeletal muscle  
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parkinsonism   degenerative disorder of the nervous system caused by a deficiency of the brain neurotransmitter dopamine; this deficiency results in the disturbances of muscle movement  
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spasticity   condition in which certain muscle groups remain in a continuous contracted state  
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action potential   an electrical signal of a single cell (muscle or nerve) generated by the opening and closing of special ion channels located on the cell's membrane  
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Convulsions   uncontrolled muscle contractions or spasms that occur in the face, torso, arms, or legs  
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Eclampsia   condition in which seizures and/or a coma develop in a patient with preeclampsia  
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Epilepsy   disorder of the CNS characterized by seizures and/or convulsions  
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febrile seizures   abnormal state of neuronal discharge resulting from high fever  
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generalized seizures   seizures that travel throughout the entire brain on both sides  
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partial   seizures that start on one side of the brain and travel a short distance before stopping  
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partial (focal) seizures   seizures that start on one side of the brain and travel a short distance before stopping  
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pre-eclampsia   condition in which hypertension develops because of pregnancy or recent pregnancy. Hypertension is accompanied by proteinuria and/or edema  
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seizure   symptom of epilepsy characterized by abnormal neuronal discharges within the brain  
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status epilepticus   condition characterized by repeated seizures  
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analgesic   drug used to reduce or eliminate pain  
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aura   sensory cue such as bright lights, smells, or tastes that precede a migraine  
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Aδ fibers   nerves that transmit sensations of sharp pain  
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Bradykinin   chemical mediator of pain released following tissue damage  
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C fibers   nerves that transmit dull, poorly localized pain  
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cyclooxygenase (COX)   key enzyme in the prostaglandin metabolic pathway that is blocked by aspirin and other NSAIDs  
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endogenous opioids   chemicals produced naturally within the body that decrease or eliminate pain; they closely resemble the actions of morphine  
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migraine   severe headache preceded by auras that may include nausea and vomiting  
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narcotic   natural or synthetic drug related to morphine; may be used as a broader legal term referring to hallucinogens (LSD), CNS stimulants, marijuana, and other illegal drugs  
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nociceptor   receptor connected with nerves that receive and transmit pain signals to the spinal cord and brain  
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opiate   natural substance extracted from the poppy plant  
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opioid   natural or synthetic morphine-like substance obtained from the unripe seeds of the poppy plant  
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patient-controlled analgesia (PCA)   use of an infusion pump to deliver a prescribed amount of pain relief medication over a designated time  
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prostaglandins   chemicals released after tissue damage, leading to pain, inflammation, and other body reactions  
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substance P   neurotransmitter within the spinal cord involved in the neural transmission of pain  
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tension headache   common type of head pain caused by stress and relieved by nonnarcotic analgesics  
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amides   type of chemical linkage found in some local anesthetics involving carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen (—NH—CO—)  
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anesthesia   medical procedure involving drugs that block the transmission of nerve impulses and cause loss of sensation and/or consciousness  
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esters   type of chemical linkage found in some local anesthetics involving carbon and oxygen (—CO—O—)  
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general anesthesia   medical procedure that produces loss of sensation throughout the entire body and unconciousness  
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local anesthesia   loss of sensation to a relatively small part of the body without loss of consciousness  
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atherosclerosis   a buildup of fatty substances and loss of elasticity of the arterial walls  
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bile acid   chemicals secreted in bile that aid in the digestion of fats  
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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  
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HMG-CoA reductase   primary enzyme in the biochemical pathway for the synthesis of cholesterol  
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Hypercholesterolemia   high levels of cholesterol in the blood  
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Hyperlipidemia   excess amounts of lipids in the blood  
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Lecithin   phospholipid that is an important part of cell membranes  
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Lipoprotein   substance carrying lipids in the bloodstream  
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low-density lipoprotein (LDL)   lipid-carrying particle that contains lower amounts of protein and high amounts of cholesterol; considered to be "bad" cholesterol  
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phospholipid   type of lipid that contains two fatty acids, a phosphate group, and a chemical backbone of glycerol  
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plaque   fatty material that builds up in the lining of blood vessels and may lead to hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction, or angina  
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steroid   type of lipid that consists of four rings and comprises certain hormones and drugs  
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steroid nucleus   ring structure common to all steroids  
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therapeutic lifestyle changes   nondrug changes which, when implemented, can reduce blood cholesterol levels  
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triglyceride   type of lipid that contains three fatty acids and a chemical backbone of glycerol  
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very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)   lipid-carrying particle that is converted to LDL in the liver  
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aldosterone   hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex that increases sodium reabsorption in the distal tubule of the kidney  
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angiotensin II   chemical released in response to falling blood pressure that causes vasoconstriction and release of aldosterone  
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angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)   enzyme responsible for converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II  
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antidiuretic hormone (ADH)   hormone produced by the hypothalamus that stimulates the kidneys to conserve water  
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baroreceptors   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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bradycardia   a condition of slow heartbeat  
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calcium channel blocker (CCB)   a drug that blocks the flow of calcium ions into myocardial cells  
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cardiac output   amount of blood pumped by each ventricle in 1 minute  
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diastolic pressure   blood pressure during the relaxation phase of heart activity  
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diuretic   drug that increases urine flow  
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electrolytes   charged substances in the blood, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and phosphate  
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false neurotransmitter   chemical that simulates a natural neurotransmitter but does not produce the same physiologic effect  
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hyperkalemia   high potassium levels in the blood  
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hypertension (HTN)   high blood pressure  
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hypokalemia   low potassium levels in the blood  
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lumen   the cavity or channel of a hollow tube such as a blood vessel  
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orthostatic hypotension   fall in blood pressure that occurs when someone changes position from recumbent to upright  
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peripheral resistance   the amount of friction encountered by blood as it travels through the vessels  
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reflex tachycardia   temporary speeding up of heart rate that occurs when blood pressure falls  
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renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system   series of enzymatic steps by which the body raises blood pressure  
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secondary hypertension   high blood pressure caused as a result of another disorder  
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stepped care   a systematic approach to treatment of hypertension  
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systolic pressure   blood pressure during the contraction phase of heart activity  
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vasomotor center   area of the medulla that controls baseline blood pressure  
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afterload   pressure that must be overcome for the ventricles to eject blood from the heart  
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contractility   the strength by which the myocardial fibers contract  
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heart failure (HF)   disease in which the heart muscle cannot contract with sufficient force to meet the body's metabolic needs  
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inotropic effect   change in the strength or contractility of the heart  
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natriuretic peptide (hBNP)   hormone that increases the urinary excretion of sodium and dilates blood vessels  
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peripheral edema   swelling in the limbs, particularly the feet and ankles, due to an accumulation of interstitial fluid  
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phosphodiesterase   enzyme in muscle cells that cleaves phosphodiester bonds; its inhibition increases myocardial contractility  
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preload   degree of stretch of the cardiac muscle fibers just before they contract  
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atrioventricular (AV) node   mass of cardiac tissue that receives electrical impulses from the SA node and conveys them to the ventricles  
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atrioventricular bundle   specialized 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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automaticity   ability of certain myocardial cells to spontaneously generate an action potential  
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bundle branches   electrical conduction pathway in the heart leading from the AV bundle and through the wall between the ventricles  
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calcium ion channel   pathway in a plasma membrane through which calcium ions enter and leave  
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cardioversion/defibrillation   conversion of fibrillation to a normal heart rhythm  
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depolarization   condition in which the plasma membrane charge is changed such that the inside is made less negative  
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dysrhythmia   abnormality in cardiac rhythm  
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ectopic foci/pacemakers   cardiac tissue outside the normal cardiac conduction pathway that generates action potentials  
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electrocardiogram (ECG)   device that records the electrical activity of the heart  
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fibrillation   type of dysrhythmia in which the chambers beat in a highly disorganized manner  
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polarized   condition in which the inside of a cell is more negatively charged than the outside of the cell  
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potassium ion channel   pathway in a plasma membrane through which potassium ions enter and leave  
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Purkinje fibers   electrical conduction pathway leading from the bundle branches to all portions of the ventricles  
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refractory period   time during which the myocardial cells rest and are not able to contract  
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sinoatrial (SA) node   pacemaker of the heart located in the wall of the right atrium  
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sinus rhythm   number of beats per minute normally generated by the SA node  
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sodium ion channel   pathway in a plasma membrane through which sodium ions enter and leave  
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supraventricular   lying above the ventricles or in the atria  
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activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)   blood test used to determine how long it takes clots to form to regulate heparin dosage  
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angina pectoris   acute pain in the chest on physical or emotional exertion due to inadequate oxygen supply to the myocardium  
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anticoagulant   an agent that inhibits the formation of blood clots  
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clotting factors   substances contributing to the process of blood clotting  
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coagulation   the process of blood clotting  
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coagulation cascade   a complex series of steps by which blood flow stops  
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embolus   a blood clot carried in the bloodstream  
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fibrin   an insoluble protein formed from fibrinogen by the action of thrombin in the blood-clotting process  
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fibrinogen   blood protein converted to fibrin by the action of thrombin in the blood-clotting process  
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fibrinolysis   removal of a blood clot  
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glycoprotein IIb/IIIa   enzyme responsible for platelet aggregation  
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hemostasis   the slowing or stopping of blood flow  
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hemostatics   drugs used to prevent and treat excessive bleeding from surgical sites  
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international normalized ratio (INR)   laboratory value used to monitor the degree of blood anticoagulation during warfarin therapy  
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low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs)   heparin-like drugs that inhibit blood clotting  
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plasmin   enzyme formed from plasminogen that dissolves blood clots  
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plasminogen   protein that prevents fibrin clot formation  
🗑
prothrombin   blood protein converted to thrombin in the blood-clotting process  
🗑
prothrombin time (PT)   blood test used to determine the time needed for plasma to clot, used to regulate warfarin dosage  
🗑
thrombin   enzyme formed in coagulating blood from prothrombin; it converts fibrinogen to fibrin, which forms the basis of a blood clot  
🗑
thromboembolic disorders   diseases associated with the formation of blood clots  
🗑
thrombolytics   drugs used to dissolve existing blood clots  
🗑
thrombus   blood clot  
🗑
tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)   natural enzyme and a drug that dissolves blood clots  
🗑
angina pectoris   acute pain in the chest on physical or emotional exertion due to inadequate oxygen supply to the myocardium  
🗑
atherosclerosis   a buildup of fatty substances and loss of elasticity of the arterial walls  
🗑
cerebrovascular accident/stroke   an acute condition of a blood clot or bleeding in a vessel in the brain  
🗑
coronary arterial bypass graft (CABG) surgery   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  
🗑
coronary arteries   vessels that bring oxygen and nutrients to the myocardium  
🗑
hemorrhagic stroke   type of stroke caused by bleeding from a blood vessel in the brain  
🗑
myocardial infarction (MI)   medical emergency in which a blood clot blocks a portion of a coronary artery  
🗑
myocardial ischemia   condition in which there is a lack of blood supply to the myocardium due to a constriction or obstruction of a blood vessel  
🗑
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  
🗑
plaque   fatty material that builds up in the lining of blood vessels and may lead to hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction, or angina  
🗑
stable angina   type of angina that occurs in a predictable pattern, usually relieved by rest  
🗑
thrombotic stroke   type of stroke caused by a blood clot blocking an artery in the brain  
🗑
unstable angina   type of angina that occurs frequently with severe symptoms and which is not relieved by rest  
🗑
vasospastic (Prinzmetal's) angina   type of angina in which decreased myocardial blood flow is caused by spasms of the coronary arteries  
🗑
anaphylaxis   an acute allergic response to an antigen that results in severe hypotension and may cause death if untreated  
🗑
antigen   a foreign organism or substance that induces the formation of antibodies  
🗑
cardiogenic shock   type of shock caused when the heart is diseased such that it cannot maintain circulation to the tissues  
🗑
colloids   type of IV fluid replacement solution consisting of large protein molecules that are unable to cross membranes  
🗑
crystalloids   type of IV fluid replacement solution that resembles blood plasma and is capable of crossing membranes  
🗑
hypovolemic shock   type of shock caused by loss of fluids such as occurs during hemorrhaging, extensive burns, or severe vomiting or diarrhea  
🗑
inotropic drug   medication that changes the force of contraction of the heart  
🗑
neurogenic shock   type of shock resulting from brain or spinal cord injury  
🗑
septic shock   type of shock caused by severe infection in the bloodstream  
🗑
shock   condition in which there is inadequate blood flow to meet the body's needs  
🗑
acidosis   condition of having too much acid; plasma pH below 7.35  
🗑
aldosterone   hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex that increases sodium reabsorption in the distal tubule of the kidney  
🗑
alkalosis   condition of having too much base; plasma pH above 7.45  
🗑
carbonic anhydrase   enzyme that forms carbonic acid by combining carbon dioxide and water  
🗑
diuretic   drug that increases urine flow  
🗑
electrolytes   charged substances in the blood, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and phosphate  
🗑
erythropoietin   hormone secreted by the kidney that stimulates red blood cell production  
🗑
filtrate   fluid in the nephron that is filtered at Bowman's capsule  
🗑
hyperkalemia   high potassium levels in the blood  
🗑
hypernatremia   high sodium level in the blood  
🗑
hypokalemia   low potassium levels in the blood  
🗑
hyponatremia   low levels of sodium in the blood  
🗑
nephron   functional unit of the kidney  
🗑
pH   a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution  
🗑
reabsorption   movement of substances from the kidney tubule back into the blood  
🗑
renal failure   decrease in the kidneys' ability to maintain electrolyte and fluid balance and excrete waste products  
🗑
secretion   movement of substances from the blood into the kidney tublule after filtration has occurred  
🗑
active immunity   stimulating the body to produce antibodies through the administration of a vaccine  
🗑
alternate-day therapy   taking a drug every other day in order to minimize adverse effects  
🗑
anaphylaxis   an acute allergic response to an antigen that results in severe hypotension and may cause death if untreated  
🗑
antibody   protein produced by the body in response to an antigen; used interchangeably with the term immunoglobulin  
🗑
Antigen   a foreign organism or substance that induces the formation of antibodies  
🗑
B cell   type of lymphocyte that is essential for the humoral immune response  
🗑
biologic response modifiers   natural substances that are able to enhance or stimulate the immune system  
🗑
boosters   an additional dose of a vaccine given months for years after the initial dose to increase the effectiveness of the vaccine  
🗑
Cushing's syndrome   condition caused by excessive corticosteroid secretion by the adrenal glands or by overdosage with corticosteroid medication  
🗑
cyclooxygenase (COX)   key enzyme in the prostaglandin metabolic pathway that is blocked by aspirin and other NSAIDs  
🗑
cytokines   chemicals produced by white blood cells, such as interleukins, leukotrienes, interferon, and tumor necrosis factor, that guide the immune response  
🗑
cytotoxic T cells   type of lymphocyte that directly attacks and destroys antigens  
🗑
helper T cells   type of lymphocyte that coordinates both the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses and that is the target of the human immunodeficiency virus  
🗑
histamine   chemical released by mast cells in response to an antigen; causes dilation of blood vessels, smooth muscle constriction, tissue swelling, and itching  
🗑
humoral immunity   a specific body defense mechanism involving the production and release of antibodies  
🗑
immunoglobulin (Ig)   protein produced by the body in response to an antigen; used interchangeably with the term antibody  
🗑
immunosuppressant   any drug, chemical, or physical agent that lowers the natural immune defense mechanisms of the body  
🗑
inflammation   nonspecific body defense that occurs in response to an injury or antigen  
🗑
lymphocyte   type of white blood cell formed in lymphoid tissue  
🗑
mast cells   connective tissue cell located in tissue spaces that releases histamine following injury  
🗑
passive immunity   administration of antibodies; provides short-term immunity  
🗑
plasma cells   type of cell derived from B cells that produces antibodies  
🗑
salicylism   poisoning due to aspirin and aspirin-like drugs  
🗑
T cells   type of lymphocyte that is essential for the cell-mediated immune response  
🗑
Titer   measurement of the amount of a substance in the blood  
🗑
Toxoid   toxin that has been chemically modified to remove its harmful nature but is still able to cause an immune response in the body  
🗑
transplant rejection   when the immune system recognizes a transplanted tissue as being foreign and attacks it  
🗑
vaccination/immunization   receiving a vaccine or toxoid to prevent disease  
🗑
vaccine   preparation of microorganism particles that is injected into a patient to stimulate the immune system with the intention of preventing disease  
🗑
acquired resistance   when a microbe is no longer affected by a drug following treatment with anti-infectives  
🗑
antagonism   type of drug interaction in which one drug inhibits the effectiveness of another  
🗑
anti-infective   general term for any medication effective against pathogens  
🗑
antibiotic   substance produced by a microorganism that inhibits or kills other microorganisms  
🗑
bacteriocidal   substance that has ability to kill bacteria  
🗑
bacteriostatic   substance that can inhibit the growth of bacteria  
🗑
beta-lactam ring   chemical structure found in most penicillins and some cephalosporins  
🗑
beta-lactamase/penicillinase   enzyme present in certain bacteria that is able to inactivate many penicillins and some cephalosporins  
🗑
broad-spectrum antibiotic   anti-infective that is effective against many different gram-positive and gram-negative organisms  
🗑
chemoprophylaxis   use of a drug to prevent an infection  
🗑
culture and sensitivity (C&S) testing   laboratory test used to identify bacteria and to determine which antibiotic is most effective  
🗑
host flora   normal microorganisms found in or on a patient  
🗑
mutations   permanent, inheritable changes to DNA  
🗑
narrow-spectrum antibiotic   anti-infective that is effective agains only one or a small number of organisms  
🗑
nephrotoxicity   an adverse effect on the kidneys  
🗑
nosocomial infections   infections acquired in a health care setting such as a hospital, physician's office, or nursing home  
🗑
ototoxicity   an adverse effect on hearing  
🗑
pathogen   organism that is capable of causing disease  
🗑
pathogenicity   ability of an organism to cause disease in humans  
🗑
photosensitivity   condition that occurs when the skin is very sensitive to sunlight  
🗑
plasmid   small piece of circular DNA found in some bacteria that is able to transfer resistance from one bacterium to another  
🗑
red-man syndrome   rash on the upper body caused by certain anti-infectives  
🗑
superinfections   condition caused when a microorganism grows rapidly as a result of having less competition in its environment  
🗑
toxin   chemical produced by a microorganism that is able to cause injury to its host  
🗑
tubercles   cavity-like lesions in the lung characteristic of infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis  
🗑
virulence   the severity of disease that an organism in able to cause  
🗑
antiretroviral   type of drug effective against retroviruses  
🗑
capsid   protein coat that surrounds a virus  
🗑
dermatophytic   superficial fungal infection  
🗑
dysentery   severe diarrhea that may include bleeding  
🗑
fungi   kingdom of organisms that includes mushrooms, yeasts, and molds  
🗑
helminth   type of flat, round, or segmented worm  
🗑
highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)   type of drug therapy for HIV infection that includes high doses of multiple medications that are given together  
🗑
host   an organism that is being infected by a microbe  
🗑
influenza   common viral infection of the respiratory system; often called flu  
🗑
intracellular parasite   an infectious microbe that lives inside host cells  
🗑
malaria   tropical disease characterized by severe fever and chills; caused by the protozoan Plasmodium  
🗑
mycoses   diseases caused by fungi  
🗑
protozoan   single-celled microorganism  
🗑
reverse transcriptase   viral enzyme that converts RNA to DNA  
🗑
superficial mycoses   fungal diseases of the hair, skin, nails, and mucous membranes  
🗑
systemic mycoses   fungal diseases affecting internal organs  
🗑
virus   nonliving particle containing RNA or DNA that is able to cause disease  
🗑
yeast   type of fungus that is unicellular and divides by budding  
🗑
adenoma   benign tumor of glandular tissue  
🗑
adjuvant chemotherapy   technique in which antineoplastics are administered after surgery or radiation to effect a cure  
🗑
alkylation   process by which certain chemicals attach to DNA and change its structure and function  
🗑
alopecia   hair loss  
🗑
anemia   shortage of functional red blood cells  
🗑
benign   neither life-threatening nor fatal  
🗑
biologic response modifiers   natural substances that are able to enhance or stimulate the immune system  
🗑
cancer   malignant disease characterized by rapidly growing, invasive cells that spread to other regions of the body and eventually kill the host  
🗑
carcinogen   any physical, chemical, or biological factor that causes or promotes cancer  
🗑
chemotherapy   drug treatment of cancer  
🗑
folic acid   B vitamin that is a coenzyme in protein and nucleic acid metabolism; also known as folate  
🗑
glioma   malignant tumor of the brain  
🗑
leukemia   cancer of the blood characterized by overproduction of white blood cells  
🗑
lipoma   benign tumor of fat tissue  
🗑
Liposomes   small sacs of lipids designed to carry drugs inside them  
🗑
Lymphoma   cancer of lymphatic tissue  
🗑
Malignant   life threatening or fatal  
🗑
Metastasis   travel of cancer cells from their original site to a distant tissue  
🗑
Neoplasm   same as tumor; an abnormal swelling or mass  
🗑
nitrogen mustards   class of chemicals that are alkylating agents  
🗑
palliation   form of chemotherapy intended to alleviate symptoms rather than cure the disease  
🗑
purine   building block of DNA and RNA, either adenine or guanine  
🗑
pyrimidine   building block of DNA and RNA, either thymine or cytosine in DNA, and cytosine and uracil in RNA  
🗑
taxanes   type of drug that blocks cell growth by stopping mitosis  
🗑
topoisomerase   enzyme that assists in the repair of DNA damage  
🗑
tumor   abnormal swelling or mass  
🗑
tumor suppressor genes   genes that inhibit the transformation of normal cells into cancer cells  
🗑
vinca alkaloids   chemicals obtained from the periwinkle plant  
🗑
aerosol   suspension of small liquid droplets of drug, usually to cause bronchodilation  
🗑
allergic rhinitis   syndrome of sneezing, itchy throat, watery eyes, and nasal congestion resulting from exposure to antigens; also known as hay fever  
🗑
alveoli   dilated sacs at the end of the bronchial tree where gas exchange occurs  
🗑
antitussive   drug used to suppress cough  
🗑
asthma   chronic inflammatory disease of the airways  
🗑
bronchi   primary passageway of the bronchial tree that contains smooth muscle  
🗑
bronchioles   very small bronchi  
🗑
bronchoconstriction   decrease in diameter of the airway due to contraction of bronchial smooth muscle  
🗑
bronchodilation   increase in diameter of the airway due to relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle  
🗑
bronchospasm   rapid constriction of the airways  
🗑
chronic bronchitis   chronic disease of the lungs characterized by excess mucus production and inflammation  
🗑
dry powder inhaler (DPI)   device used to convert a solid drug to a fine powder for the purpose of inhalation  
🗑
dry powder inhaler(DPI)   device used to convert a solid drug to a fine powder for the purpose of inhalation  
🗑
dyspnea   shortness of breath  
🗑
emphysema   terminal lung disease characterized by dilation of the alveoli  
🗑
expectorant   drug used to increase bronchial secretions  
🗑
H1-receptor blocker   drug that blocks the effects of histamine in smooth muscle in the bronchial tree  
🗑
metered-dose inhaler (MDIs)   device used to deliver a precise amount of drug to the respiratory system  
🗑
mucolytic   drug used to loosen thick mucus  
🗑
nebulizer   device used to convert liquid drugs into a fine mist for the purpose of inhalation  
🗑
perfusion   blood flow through a tissue or organ  
🗑
rebound congestion   a condition of hypersecretion of mucus following use of intranasal sympathomimetics  
🗑
respiration   exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide  
🗑
status asthmaticus   acute form of asthma requiring immediate medical attention  
🗑
ventilation   process by which air is moved into and out of the lungs  
🗑
alimentary canal   the hollow tube in the digestive system that starts in the mouth and includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine  
🗑
anorexia   loss of appetite  
🗑
anorexiant   drug used to suppress appetite  
🗑
antacid   drug that neutralizes stomach acid  
🗑
antiemetic   drug that prevents vomiting  
🗑
antiflatulent   drug that reduces gas formation in the GI tract  
🗑
cathartic   drug that causes complete evacuation of the bowel  
🗑
constipation   infrequent passage of abnormally hard and dry stools  
🗑
Crohn's disease   chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the ileum and sometimes the colon  
🗑
Defecation   evacuation of the colon; bowel movement  
🗑
Diarrhea   abnormal frequency and liquidity of bowel movements  
🗑
dietary fiber   substance neither digested nor absorbed that contributes to the fecal mass  
🗑
digestion   process by which the body breaks down ingested food into small molecules that can be absorbed  
🗑
emesis   vomiting  
🗑
emetic   drug used to induce vomiting  
🗑
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)   the regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus  
🗑
H+, K+-ATPase   enzyme responsible for pumping acid onto the mucosal surface of the stomach  
🗑
H2-receptor blocker   drug that inhibits the effects of histamine at its receptors in the GI tract  
🗑
Helicobacter pylori   bacterium associated with a large percentage of peptic ulcer disease  
🗑
pancreatic insufficiency   condition in which the pancreas is not secreting sufficient amounts of digestive enzymes, resulting in malabsorption syndromes  
🗑
peptic ulcer   erosion of the mucosa in the alimentary canal, most commonly in the stomach duodenum  
🗑
peristalsis   involuntary wave-like contraction that occurs in the alimentary canal  
🗑
proton-pump inhibitor (PPI)   drug that inhibits the enzyme H+, K+-ATPase  
🗑
ulcerative colitis   inflammatory bowel disease of the colon  
🗑
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome   disorder of having excess acid secretion in the stomach  
🗑
enteral nutrition   treatment of undernutrition by the oral route or through a feeding tube  
🗑
hemoglobin   substance in a red blood cell that contains iron and transports oxygen and CO2  
🗑
hypervitaminosis   excess intake of vitamins  
🗑
intrinsic factor   chemical secreted by the stomach that is required for absorption of vitamin B12  
🗑
major mineral   inorganic compound needed by the body in amounts of 100 mg or more daily  
🗑
major mineral (macromineral)   inorganic compound needed by the body in amounts of 100 mg or more daily  
🗑
pernicious (megaloblastic) anemia   type of anemia usually caused by lack of secretion of intrinsic factor  
🗑
provitamin   an inactive chemical that is converted to a vitamin in the body  
🗑
recommended dietary allowance (RDA)   amount of vitamin or mineral needed daily to avoid a deficiency in a healthy adult  
🗑
total parenteral nutrition (TPN)   treatment of undernutrition through the parenteral infusion of dextrose, amino acids, emulsified fats, vitamins, and minerals  
🗑
trace mineral   inorganic compound needed by the body in amounts of 20 mg or less daily  
🗑
undernutrition   taking in or absorbing fewer nutrients than required for normal body growth and maintenance  
🗑
vitamins   organic compounds required by the body in small amounts  
🗑
Addison's disease   hyposecretion of glucocorticoids and aldosterone by the adrenal cortex  
🗑
adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)   hormone secreted by the pituitary that stimulates the release of glucocorticoids by the adrenal cortex  
🗑
atrophy   shrinkage or wasting away of a tissue  
🗑
cretinism   dwarfism and mental retardation caused by lack of thyroid hormone during infancy  
🗑
Cushing's syndrome   condition caused by excessive corticosteroid secretion by the adrenal glands or by overdosage with corticosteroid medication  
🗑
diabetes insipidus   excessive urination due to lack of secretion of antidiuretic hormone  
🗑
diabetes mellitus, type 1   disease characterized by lack of secretion of insulin by the pancreas that usually begins in the early teens  
🗑
diabetes mellitus, type 2   disease characterized by insufficient secretion of insulin by the pancreas or by lack of sensitivity of insulin receptors that usually begins in middle age  
🗑
dwarfism   below normal height caused by a deficiency in thyroid hormone or growth hormone  
🗑
follicular cells   cells in the thyroid gland that secrete thyroid hormone  
🗑
glucocorticoid   type of hormone secreted by the outer portion of the adrenal gland that includes cortisol  
🗑
Graves' disease   syndrome caused by hypersection of thyroid hormone  
🗑
Hormones   chemicals secreted by endocrine glands that act as chemical messengers to affect homeostasis  
🗑
Hyperglycemia   abnormally high level of glucose in the blood  
🗑
Hypoglycemia   abnormally low level of glucose in the blood  
🗑
Hypothalamus   region of the brain that affects emotions and drives and that secretes releasing factors that affect the pituitary gland  
🗑
Incretin   a group of drugs that boost the action of gastrointestinal hormones, which stimulate the pancreas to release insulin after a meal before blood glucose levels can become too elevated  
🗑
incretin enhancers   a group of drugs that boost the action of gastrointestinal hormones, which stimulate the pancreas to release insulin after a meal before blood glucose levels can become too elevated  
🗑
islets of Langerhans   clusters of cells in the pancreas responsible for the secretion of insulin and glucagon; also called the pancreatic islets  
🗑
ketoacids   waste products of fat metabolism that lower the pH of the blood  
🗑
mineralocorticoid   hormone involved in the regulation of fluid and electrolytes by its effects in the kidney  
🗑
myxedema   condition caused by insufficient secretion of thyroid hormone  
🗑
parafollicular cells   cells in the thyroid gland that secrete calcitonin  
🗑
pituitary gland   endocrine gland in the brain responsible for controlling many other endocrine glands  
🗑
releasing factors   hormones secreted by the hypothalamus that affect secretions in the pituitary gland  
🗑
somatotropin   another name for growth hormone  
🗑
vasopressin   another name for antidiuretic hormone  
🗑
amenorrhea   lack of normal menstrual periods  
🗑
androgens   steroid sex hormones that promote the appearance of masculine characteristics  
🗑
antepartum   prior to the onset of labor  
🗑
benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH)   nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate gland  
🗑
breakthrough bleeding   bleeding at abnormal times during the menstrual cycle  
🗑
corpus cavernosum   tissue in the penis that fills with blood during an erection  
🗑
dysfunctional uterine bleeding   hemorrhage that occurs at abnormal times or in abnormal quantity during the menstrual cycle  
🗑
endometrium   inner lining of the uterus  
🗑
estrogen   class of steroid sex hormones produced by the ovary  
🗑
follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)   hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that regulates sperm or egg production  
🗑
hypogonadism   below normal secretion of the steroid sex hormones  
🗑
hysterectomy   surgical removal of the uterus  
🗑
impotence   inability to obtain or sustain an erection; also called erectile dysfunction  
🗑
libido   interest in sexual activity  
🗑
lutinizing hormone (LH)   hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that triggers ovulation in the female and stimulates sperm production in the male  
🗑
menopause   time when females stop secreting estrogen and menstrual cycles cease  
🗑
menorrhea   prolonged or excessive menstruation  
🗑
oligomenorrhea   infrequent menstruation  
🗑
ovulation   release of an egg by the ovary  
🗑
oxytocin   hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that stimulates uterine contractions and milk ejection  
🗑
postpartum   occurring after childbirth  
🗑
progesterone   hormone responsible for building up the uterine lining in the second half of the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy  
🗑
prolactin   hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that stimulates milk production in the mammary glands  
🗑
tocolytic   drug used to inhibit uterine contractions  
🗑
virulization   appearance of masculine secondary sex characteristics  
🗑
acute gouty arthritis   condition where uric acid crystals quickly accumulate in the joints of the big toes, heels, ankles, wrists, fingers, knees, or elbows, resulting in red, swollen, or inflamed tissue  
🗑
autoantibodies   proteins called rheumatoid factors released by B lymphocytes; these tear down the body's own tissue  
🗑
bisphosphonates   family of drugs that block bone resorption by inhibiting osteoclast activity  
🗑
bone deposition   the opposite of bone resorption; the process of depositing mineral components into bone  
🗑
bone resorption   process of bone demineralization or the breaking down of bone into mineral components  
🗑
calcifediol   intermediate form of vitamin D  
🗑
calcitonin   treatment typically administered to women who cannot take estrogen or bisphosphonate therapy or for clients with Paget's disease  
🗑
calcitriol   substance that is transformed in the kidneys during the second step of the conversion of vitamin D to its active form  
🗑
cholecalciferol   inactive form of vitamin D  
🗑
disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)   agents that reduce destruction of the joints and progression of rheumatoid arthritis  
🗑
gout   metabolic disorder characterized by the accumulation of uric acid in the bloodstream or joint cavities  
🗑
osteoarthritis (OA)   disorder characterized by degeneration of joints such as the fingers, spine, hips, and knees  
🗑
osteomalacia   rickets in children; disease characterized by softening of the bones without alteration of basic bone structure  
🗑
osteoporosis   condition in which bones become brittle and susceptible to fracture  
🗑
Paget's disease   disorder characterized by weak, enlarged, and abnormal bones  
🗑
rheumatoid arthritis (RA)   systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of multiple joints  
🗑
selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMS)   drugs that directly produce an action similar to estrogen in body tissues; used for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women  
🗑
closed comedones   commonly called whiteheads, this type of acne develops just beneath the surface of the skin  
🗑
dermatitis   inflammatory condition of the skin characterized by itching and scaling  
🗑
eczema   also called atopic dermatitis, a skin disorder with unexplained symptoms of inflammation, itching, and scaling  
🗑
emollients   agents used to soothe and soften the skin  
🗑
erythema   redness associated with skin irritation  
🗑
keratinization   development of the stratum corneum or horny layer of epithelial tissue  
🗑
keratolytic agents   drugs used to promote shedding of old skin  
🗑
open comedones   type of acne in which sebum has plugged the oil gland; commonly called blackheads  
🗑
papules   inflammatory bumps without pus that swell, thicken, and become painful  
🗑
pediculicides   medications that kill lice  
🗑
pruritus   itching associated with dry, scaly skin  
🗑
psoralen   drug used along with phototherapy for the treatment of psoriasis and other severe skin disorders  
🗑
pustules   inflammatory bumps with pus  
🗑
retinoids   vitamin A-like compounds used in the treatment of severe acne and psoriasis  
🗑
retinol   chemical name for vitamin A  
🗑
rosacea   skin disorder characterized by clusters of papules  
🗑
scabicides   drugs that kill scabies and mites  
🗑
scabies   skin disorder caused by the female mite burrowing into the skin and laying eggs  
🗑
seborrhea   condition characterized by overactivity of oil glands  
🗑
closed-angle glaucoma   called acute glaucoma, this type of glaucoma is caused by the iris blocking trabecular meshwork, hindering outflow of aqueous fluid  
🗑
cycloplegia   blurred vision  
🗑
cycloplegic drug   drugs that relax or temporarily paralyze ciliary muscles  
🗑
external otitis   commonly called swimmer's ear, this is inflammation of the outer ear  
🗑
mastoiditis   inflammation of the mastoid sinus  
🗑
miosis   constriction of the pupil  
🗑
miotics   drugs that cause pupil constriction  
🗑
mydriasis   dilation of the pupil  
🗑
mydriatic drugs   drugs that cause pupil dilation  
🗑
open-angle glaucoma   also called chronic simple glaucoma, this type of glaucoma is caused by congestion in trabecular meshwork, hindering outflow of aqueous fluid  
🗑
otitis media   inflammation of the middle ear  
🗑
tonometry   technique for measuring eye tension and pressure  
🗑


   

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