Medical Terminology

Almost all professions have their own “language” and medicine likely uses one of the most complex languages of all. Medical professionals used terms to describe the objects and situations they encounter in their work every day. These special words, or the terms that make up the language of medicine are referred to collectively as Medical Terminology.

Despite the evolution and expansion of medical terminology since its inception, the basis for medical terminology stems from basic roots that have remained the same throughout time. The majority of these terms originate from Latin or Greek with different suffixes or prefixes attached to the root words to alter their meanings and applications. Successful health professionals use this terminology reflexively and must have a firm grasp of these terms in order to make the split-second decisions or react quickly to immediate situations, communicating effectively with a whole medical team. Every health professional needs to understand medical terminology and this course is a great solution for anyone entering the field or looking to brush up on their understanding.

This course covers medical terminology, symbols and abbreviations, and the application of this new language in the field of Healthcare. While terms are covered as they relate to body structure and function, the main focus is on medical vocabulary and being able to construct terms using word parts such as roots, suffixes, and prefixes.

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Explain the importance of medical terminology when documenting and communicating patient information
• Identify the fundamental word structure of medical terminology and its component parts
• Analyze medical terminology based on word structure
• Describe the component parts that make up the body
• Define common medical terms and abbreviations
• Describe the organization and structure of the human body
• Build medical terminology related to body structures, functions, and disorders
• Describe medical terminology related to the integumentary system
• Describe medical terminology related to the musculoskeletal system
• Describe medical terminology related to the cardiovascular system
• Describe medical terminology related to the blood and the lymphatic system
• Describe medical terminology related to the respiratory system
• Describe medical terminology related to the gastrointestinal system
• Describe medical terminology related to the nervous system
• Describe medical terminology related to the eye and ear
• Describe medical terminology related to the endocrine system
• Describe medical terminology related to the male and female reproductive systems
• Describe medical terminology related to mental health
• Describe medical terminology employed in the specialties of cancer, radiology, and nuclear medicine

This class includes the following eText:
Turley. (2012). Medical Language; 2/E; ISBN: 0135055784

This course does not include tutoring.