Category: A

One of four small, flat processes (two superior and two inferior) by which vertebrae articulate with each other.  

The fruit of any of the cacti of the genus Opuntia, native to and a staple food in Mexico and Central America.  

Happening prior to fertilization of the ovum.  

A complication of mechanical ventilation in which the ventilator does not permit the patient sufficient time to exhale. This causes air to be trapped in the lungs, particularly the alveoli. If continued, auto-PEEP causes respiratory muscle fatigue and can cause rupture of the lung (i.e., pneumothorax). Auto-PEEP may be corrected by increasing exhalation time, decreasing…

Relating to the formation of partly formed bone made of developing cartilage or connective tissue.  

Ectopic implantation of the zygote in the ampulla of a fallopian tube; 78% of all ectopic pregnancies occur in this site.  

An umbrella term that includes the following health care workers: Certified Midwife, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Nurse Practitioner.  

A nurse practitioner who is licensed to treat people over 18 years of age.  

A nurse who is licensed to manage the care of select patient groups that have acute and specialized health care needs. The practice of the acute care nurse practitioner may be within a hospital setting or may extend into other areas of the community.  

The small ionic changes across an excitable membrane that follow an action potential.