HLTK 1200 Medical Terminology

This computer-based course presents a basic study and practical application of the language of medicine and introduces the student to proper spelling, definition, and pronunciation of medical terms and abbreviations used by healthcare professionals. An overview of the structure and function of the body systems is presented so the student can relate terms to pathology diseases, and diagnostic and treatments procedures of selected systems. The course provides an organized approach to medical word construction based on the concept of combining word roots, prefixes, and suffixes. (3 lect.)

Credits

3 credits

Major Topics

  • Introduction to Medical Terminology
  • The Human Body in Health and Disease
  • The Skeletal System
  • The Muscular System
  • The Cardiovascular System
  • The Lymphatic and Immune Systems
  • The Respiratory System
  • The Digestive System
  • The Urinary System
  • The Nervous System and Mental Health
  • Special Senses: The Eyes and Ears
  • Skin: The Integumentary System
  • The Endocrine System
  • The Reproductive Systems
  • Diagnostic Procedures, Nuclear Medicine, and Pharmacology

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Identify and define word parts (prefixes, roots, suffixes) most frequently associated with the major body systems.

2. Properly spell, define, and pronounce medical terms associated with each of the major body systems.

3. Define unfamiliar medical terms by analyzing word parts and verifying definitions in a medical dictionary or online.

4. Recognize and relate structures and functions of each body system to common diseases, pathology, medical specialties, and diagnostic and treatment procedures.