Lecture on Medical Terminology and Human Anatomy

Introduction

• Focus on Chapters 1-4 in the textbook
• This content is not heavily featured on exams but is essential for professional communication in healthcare settings
• Understanding medical terminology leads to respect and higher compensation

Medical Terminology Overview

• Considered a separate, dense language; uses compact terms
• Originates from Greek, Roman, with German, French, and English influences
• Constructed of roots, prefixes, and suffixes
• Learning prefixes, suffixes, and roots can help decode medical terms

Example: The Word "Diagnosis"

• Diagnosis is composed of:
  • Prefix: dia (complete, thorough, through)
  • Root: gn (knowledge, to know)
  • Suffix: osis (abnormal condition of)
• Full meaning: Complete knowledge of an abnormal condition

Prefixes and Suffixes

• Prefix: Dia
  • Examples: Diarrhea, Diagram
• Suffix: Rhea
  • Means flow (e.g., gonorrhea, menorrhea, rhinorrhea)

Analyzing Medical Terms

• Gonorrhea:
  • Gon: root meaning related to sexual organs
  • Rhea: flow
  • Full meaning: Flow from sexual organs
• Menorrhea:
  • Meno: menstruation
  • Rhea: flow
  • Full meaning: Menstrual flow
• Rhinorrhea:
  • Rhino: nose
  • Rhea: flow
  • Full meaning: Runny nose

Understanding Larger Terms

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography
  • Breaking down terms helps in understanding complex medical procedures
• Osteoporosis
  • Osteo: bone
  • Por: pores/holes
  • Osis: abnormal condition
  • Full meaning: Abnormal condition of having holes in bones

Learning Strategy

• Visual aids and drawing can help with retention
• Engage with the material actively (e.g., questions, drawing, re-watching lectures)

Conclusion

• Medical terminology is crucial for becoming a recognized professional in healthcare
• Titles like CRCST are valuable and enhance career prospects
• Understanding and using medical terminology makes you stand out and sound professional

Additional Example: Osteotome

• Osteotome
  • Osteo: bone
  • Tom: cut
  • E: instrument
  • Full meaning: An instrument for cutting bone

Final Remarks

• Practice breaking down words
• Apply knowledge logically in the healthcare environment
• Continue studying both medical terminology and human anatomy as they are interlinked