“L” Words for NCLEX Preparation | Day 34

Welcome to our journey through essential words related to nursing or medicine, all starting with the letter “L” These words are crucial for your NCLEX preparation, as they represent fundamental concepts and terminology you’ll encounter in the healthcare field.

Laparoscopic Surgery
Definition: A type of surgery performed through small incisions with the aid of a camera.
Example: “Laparoscopic surgery is less invasive than traditional open surgery, often resulting in less pain and quicker recovery.”

Lymphoma
Definition: A type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system.
Example: “There are several types of lymphoma, including Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.”

Lethargy
Definition: A lack of energy and enthusiasm.
Example: “Lethargy can be a symptom of various medical conditions, from depression to an underactive thyroid.”

Lumbar Puncture
Definition: A medical procedure where a needle is inserted into the lower part of the spine to test for conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the nervous system.
Example: “A lumbar puncture can help diagnose serious infections like meningitis.”

Levodopa
Definition: A medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease.
Example: “Levodopa works by being converted into dopamine in the brain, helping to improve movement symptoms.”

Laryngoscopy
Definition: An examination of the larynx (voice box) using a laryngoscope.
Example: “Laryngoscopy is used to diagnose voice problems, throat pain, or persistent cough.”

Liposuction
Definition: A cosmetic surgery procedure used to remove unwanted body fat.
Example: “Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for proper diet and exercise.”

Lupus
Definition: An autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and pain in any part of your body.
Example: “Lupus is challenging to diagnose because its signs and symptoms often mimic those of other ailments.”

Lichen Planus
Definition: An inflammatory condition that can affect the skin and the inside of the mouth.
Example: “Lichen planus often causes itchy, purplish bumps on the skin.”

Loop Diuretics
Definition: A class of diuretics that act on the ascending loop of Henle in the kidney.
Example: “Loop diuretics are commonly used to treat congestive heart failure and edema.”

Laryngectomy
Definition: A surgical procedure to remove the larynx, usually due to cancer.
Example: “After a laryngectomy, patients may need to learn new ways to speak.”

Lactose Intolerance
Definition: A disorder characterized by the inability to fully digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.
Example: “Symptoms of lactose intolerance include bloating, diarrhea, and gas after consuming dairy.”

Legionnaires’ Disease
Definition: A severe form of pneumonia caused by a bacterium known as Legionella.
Example: “Legionnaires’ disease often occurs from breathing in mist from water sources like hot tubs or air conditioning units in large buildings.”

Leukocytosis
Definition: An increase in the number of white cells in the blood, especially during an infection.
Example: “Leukocytosis is a common response to infection but can also be caused by other diseases.”

Laminotomy
Definition: A surgical procedure that involves removing part of the vertebral arch (lamina) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
Example: “A laminotomy may be performed to relieve symptoms of spinal stenosis.”

You’ve delved into the terminology that forms the foundation of nursing and medicine, all starting with the letter “L”