Medical Abbreviations Trivia Quiz

Answer: Twice a day

The medical abbreviation BID is used to indicate how often and at what time the medication should be taken. This is also used to indicate physical therapy and respiratory treatments.

Answer: Stroke

A CVA can be a catastrophic occurrence to anyone who suffers from such an incident. A CVA is caused by the blood flow to your brain being interrupted causing confusion, weakness, dizziness and trouble seeing. Another medical emergency called TIA, or "transient ischemic attack", is very similar to the CVA.

This is considered to be a mini stroke. The difference between the TIA and CVA is that, often, the TIA is caused by a blockage, usually a blood clot, that is only temporary. With the TIA there is no brain damage as with the CVA.

There is little difference in the symptoms so time is of the essence. Call the medical emergency number immediately when any symptoms appear to prevent further damage.

Answer: Heart attack

An NSTEMI is a heart attack that causes less heart damage than a STEMI (an ST-elevation myocardial infarction), which is a major heart attack. The "ST" is a segment on a EKG or electrocardiogram which measures the rhythm of the heart. When the "ST" segment is not elevated this condition is also called ACS or "acute coronary syndrome. Cardiac catherization is the best way to prevent a NSTEMI from turning into a more deadly STEMI.

Answer: Staph infection

MRSA is a strain of bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics we used in times past. These antibiotics were once used to treat a "staph" infection but the bacteria have become resistant to the antibiotics. Anyone can get the MRSA bacteria but it is usually found in healthcare facilities where people are in a weakened physical condition. Those treating any patients should thoroughly wash their hands, especially when handling any body fluids. One can be infected with the MRSA bacteria through physical contact. Practice good hygiene even if you are not in a healthcare environment. Be safe and wash your hands often.

Answer: Aspirin

Aspirin is given to treat many types of ailments. It is an analgesic, which means that it does not affect the level of consciousness or cause sedation. Aspirin can be found naturally in willow trees and myrtle. It was used as far back as 3000 BC by the Third Dynasty of Ur.

The willow plant was also used by many cultures, such as the Roman Empire, North American tribes and ancient Arab, Aztec and Mayan civilizations. Even the Apollo moon astronauts had aspirin with them when travelling to the moon!

Answer: Extended release

The introduction of "extended release" medication has allowed patients to take medication less frequently. "Extended release" medication is formulated in such a way that it facilities the active ingredients to be released more slowly into the bloodstream. Extended medications should not be split.

Answer: Heart burn

GERD is when the stomach juices flow back into the esophagus, which can cause a bile like taste in the mouth. Some people experience a burning pain and they feel like they are having a heart attack. An important thing to remember is that GERD does not need any exertion to occur whereas a heart attack is usually caused by exertion.

Answer: Tuberculosis

The bacteria of tuberculosis (TB) can stay in the body for a long time. Although it may be inactive, it can weaken the immune system. Suddenly the TB can become active and bring about fever, coughing, weight loss and sweating while sleeping.

Answer: Heart rhythm disorders

Everyone has a natural pacemaker. It is called the sinus node or SA node. It is located in the right upper chamber of the heart. This is where the electrical impulses excite the heart causing it to contract, making our heart beat.

Answer: Vital signs

Vital signs are vital! By regularly having them measured and tracked doctors are able to see the warning signs before the patient takes a turn for the worse. Newer technology is making the tracking of vital signs easier for the patient and the healthcare provider.

A device as small as a business card can be worn by the patient to track the patient's vitals, bringing more comfort and flexibility to the patient and staff.