“C” Words for NCLEX Preparation | Day 8
Introduction: Welcome to our journey through essential words related to nursing or medicine, all starting with the letter “C” These words are crucial for your NCLEX preparation, as they represent fundamental concepts and terminology you’ll encounter in the healthcare field.
Cardiology
Definition: The branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the heart and blood vessels.
Example: “Cardiology is a vital field for treating heart diseases like coronary artery disease.”
Catheter
Definition: A tube that can be inserted into a body cavity, duct, or vessel to drain fluids or administer substances.
Example: “A urinary catheter was inserted to help the patient who had urinary retention.”
Cyanosis
Definition: A bluish discoloration of the skin resulting from poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation of the blood.
Example: “The patient exhibited cyanosis in the fingertips, indicating a potential oxygenation problem.”
Cerebrovascular
Definition: Relating to the blood vessels of the brain.
Example: “Cerebrovascular accidents, also known as strokes, are serious medical emergencies.”
Carcinoma
Definition: A type of cancer that starts in cells that make up the skin or the tissue lining organs.
Example: “Basal cell carcinoma is a common form of skin cancer.”
Chemotherapy
Definition: The treatment of disease by the use of chemical substances, especially the treatment of cancer by cytotoxic and other drugs.
Example: “Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments to combat cancer.”
Cachexia
Definition: Weakness and wasting of the body due to severe chronic illness.
Example: “Cachexia is often seen in patients with advanced cancer.”
Contraindication
Definition: A specific situation in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the person.
Example: “Pregnancy is a contraindication for many radiographic procedures.”
Corticosteroid
Definition: A hormone produced by the adrenal cortex or synthesized; used especially as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Example: “Corticosteroids are prescribed to reduce inflammation in conditions like asthma.”
Comorbidity
Definition: The simultaneous presence of two or more diseases or medical conditions in a patient.
Example: “Comorbidity of diabetes and hypertension can complicate treatment strategies.”
Cytokine
Definition: Any of a number of substances, such as interferon, interleukin, and growth factors, which are secreted by certain cells of the immune system and have an effect on other cells.
Example: “Cytokines play a crucial role in the body’s immune response.”
Chronic
Definition: (Of an illness) persisting for a long time or constantly recurring.
Example: “Chronic conditions like diabetes require ongoing management.”
Cranial
Definition: Relating to the skull or cranium.
Example: “The cranial nerves originate in the brain and are numbered from I to XII.”
Cystoscopy
Definition: A medical examination of the bladder and urethra using a cystoscope.
Example: “Cystoscopy is performed to diagnose urinary system issues.”
Contraception
Definition: The deliberate use of artificial methods or other techniques to prevent pregnancy as a consequence of sexual intercourse.
Example: “Contraception methods vary from hormonal pills to barrier devices.”
Conclusion: You’ve delved into the terminology that forms the foundation of nursing and medicine, all starting with the letter “C”