Category: C

A machine which carries out computed tomography (CT)-a type of imaging done by using radiation (x-rays) and analyzing and displaying the absorption (or transmission) of the radiation by the tissues. The key to this technology is a microcomputer within the machine. A CT scanner is also called a “CAT scanner.”  

The first right to die case to reach the United States Supreme Court. Nancy Cruzan was in her early twenties when a 1983 automobile accident deprived her of oxygen for perhaps 12 to 14 minutes (the best estimate), and left her in a persistent vegetative state. A gastrostomy feeding tube was surgically implanted about a…

A term used in quality management teams to indicate that more than one department is involved. For example, if both nursing and pharmacy are involved in a team, the team is a cross-functional team.  

Highly important or essential, as used in connection with systems or their components. Critical systems are described as of two classes: mission-critical and safety-critical.  

A term which, when used to describe the condition of a patient, means that the condition is life-threatening. Of the terms commonly used to describe a patient’s condition, “critical” indicates the greatest severity of illness.  

An examination which is given for the purpose of determining the applicant’s qualification for the credential sought.  

An individual’s right to a certain claim, for example, as to education. Usually a credential is supported by an official document: the physician’s medical school diploma, state license, and specialty certification certificate are examples. Credentials, once attained, tend to be fixed, al¬ though in some instances they expire, and renewal or recertification may be required.…

Use of creative arts to restore, maintain, or improve an individual’s physical, mental, emotional, or social functioning. Music therapy, for example, is defined by the National Association for Music Therapy as “the use of music in the accomplishment of therapeutic aims: the restoration, maintenance, and improvement of mental and physical health. It is the systematic…

A clause of an employment contract which prohibits the employee from competing with the employer in their field of work in the event of termination of the employment relationship. Generally, a covenant not to compete will be enforced if it is (1) ancillary to a lawful contract, (2) supported by consideration (such as salary), and…

A non-profit organization formed in 1975 with the sponsorship of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American College of Physicians (ACP), the American College of Surgeons (ACS), the American Psychiatric Association (APA), and the Commission on Professional and Hospital Activities (CPHA) to prepare the North American…