“D” Words for NCLEX Preparation | Day 13

Doppler Ultrasound

Definition: A noninvasive test that can be used to estimate the blood flow through your blood vessels.
Example: “A Doppler ultrasound was used to assess the blood flow in the patient’s carotid arteries.”

Dermabrasion

Definition: A surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the skin by removing layers of the skin.
Example: “Dermabrasion can be used to reduce the appearance of scars.”

Drainage

Definition: The removal of fluids from a body cavity, wound, or other source of discharge by one or more methods.
Example: “Proper wound drainage is essential to promote healing.”

Dysarthria

Definition: Slurred or slow speech that can be difficult to understand.
Example: “Dysarthria can result from a neurological disorder affecting motor control of speech.”

Decompression

Definition: Surgical reduction of pressure on a part of the body, especially the brain or spinal cord.
Example: “Spinal decompression is used to relieve pressure on pinched nerves.”

Dysplastic Nevi

Definition: Atypical moles that can develop into melanoma, a form of skin cancer.
Example: “Regular monitoring of dysplastic nevi is important for early detection of skin cancer.”

Demyelination

Definition: Damage to the protective covering (myelin sheath) that surrounds nerve fibers in the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord.
Example: “Multiple sclerosis is a disease that causes demyelination of nerve fibers in the central nervous system.”

Dysphoric

Definition: A state of unease or generalized dissatisfaction with life.
Example: “Postpartum dysphoric disorder is a severe form of depression occurring after childbirth.”

Diaphysis

Definition: The shaft or central part of a long bone.
Example: “Fractures in the diaphysis of long bones require careful management to heal properly.”

Dysbiosis

Definition: Microbial imbalance on or inside the body.
Example: “Gut dysbiosis can lead to a variety of gastrointestinal disorders.”

Diphenhydramine

Definition: An antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold.
Example: “Diphenhydramine is often used to treat allergic reactions and can cause drowsiness.”

Dysphonia

Definition: Difficulty in speaking due to a physical disorder of the mouth, tongue, throat, or vocal cords.
Example: “Vocal abuse can lead to dysphonia.”

Dextrocardia

Definition: A condition in which the heart is pointed toward the right side of the chest.
Example: “Dextrocardia is a rare congenital condition.”

Dysplastic

Definition: Showing abnormal cell growth or development.
Example: “Dysplastic changes in cells can be a precursor to cancer.”

Dysthymia

Definition: A persistent mild depression.
Example: “Dysthymia, also known as persistent depressive disorder, often requires long-term treatment.”

Conclusion: Congratulations on completing the module on important “D” words for NCLEX preparation! You’ve delved into the terminology that forms the foundation of nursing and medicine, all starting with the letter “D”