Glossary

Author: Glossary

  • Positive beam limiting device

    A collimator that automatically adjusts the size of the radiation field to match the size of the imaging device. Also called automatic collimator.  

  • Position-indicating device

    A device used to guide the direction of the x-ray beam during the exposure of dental radiographs. These devices improve and standardize dental radiographic imaging and reduce the patient’s risk of radiation exposure.  

  • Pointing device

    A type of input device for sending commands to a computer. Moving the device results in movement of a cursor on the monitor or computer screen. Pointing devices range from the conventional desktop mouse, trackball, and touch-sensitive screens to infrared and ultrasound pointers mounted on the head.  

  • Personal flotation device

    A life vest used to prevent drowning and near drowning. People engaged in water sports, such as boating or water skiing, or rescuers working on or near the water should wear PFDs at all times. The U.S. Coast Guard sets standards and establishes specifications for the manufacture and use of PFDs. Personal flotation devices may…

  • Needleless device

    A device used to inject drugs and fluids that has no exposed sharp surface. It is designed to decrease the risk of needle-stick injuries by health care professionals.  

  • Listening device

    A speech amplifier that aids hearing-impaired individuals in direct person-to-person communication or telephone conversation. Such devices differ from conventional hearing aids in that they reduce interference from background noises.  

  • Left ventricular assist device

    A pump surgically implanted in patients with severe heart failure to move blood from the left ventricle to the ascending aorta. The LVAD usually augments the heart’s function until it heals (following a severe myocardial in farction) or until a heart transplant becomes available (e.g., for patients with heart failure with a markedly diminished ejection…

  • Intrauterine contraceptive device

    A copper or polypropylene artifact that is inserted into the uterine cavity to interfere with conception or implantation. The actual mechanism by which IUDs function is unclear. The estimated pregnancy rate is between 2% and 4%.  

  • Input device

    In assistive technology, the apparatus that activates an electronic device. This can be a manual switch, a remote control, or a joystick.  

  • Head immobilization device

    A device that attaches to a long back board and holds the patient’s head in neutral alignment. Also called cervical immobilization device.