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Valerie Swigart, Ph.D. R.N.
and
Michael Gold, Ph.D.
Understanding the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used during verbal or written communication in U.S. hospitals is challenging. This course is designed for U.S. health care profession students and for international students and practitioners who want to become more familiar with the language of the U.S. clinical setting. Others, such as caregivers and medical interpreters, who wish to develop a better understanding of terms and abbreviations used by health care providers will find this course helpful. The course provides visual and auditory learning experiences to enhance the understanding of terms and abbreviations commonly encountered on a general U.S. hospital unit. All content including quizzes are available at no cost to the learner. If you need a certificate, you can apply for financial aid or pay the fee. To find out more, click Learn more and apply next to the information about Financial Aid. (Use a computer, not a mobile device, for this step.)
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/e1iv38/clinical
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Clinical Terms and Abbreviations
In the week 1 video lecture, Dr. Swigart introduces the course and strategies for understanding the structure of clinical abbreviations and complex terms. In week 1 readings, we focus on learning abbreviations related to vital signs. Understanding the structure of abbreviations will help you to identify the meaning of abbreviations presented in this course, as well as those you encounter in the future.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Clinical Terms and Abbreviations
In the week 1 video lecture, Dr. Swigart introduces the course and strategies for understanding the structure of clinical abbreviations and complex terms. In week 1 readings, we focus on learning abbreviations related to vital signs. Understanding the structure of abbreviations will help you to identify the meaning of abbreviations presented in this course, as well as those you encounter in the future.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Assists non-native English speakers in improving their linguistic competency for working in an American hospital
Provides a thorough review of abbreviations and terms used in the medical field
Supports learners with diverse backgrounds and experience levels as it covers fundamental concepts and advanced strategies
Lacks practical components such as hands-on exercises or case studies
May not be suitable for learners seeking comprehensive training in medical terminology
Does not focus on specific medical specialties or subfields
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Reviews summary
Clinical terminology for healthcare settings
According to learners, this course provides a strong foundation in clinical terminology and abbreviations commonly used in U.S. healthcare settings. Students particularly appreciate the focus on pronunciation through visual and auditory learning experiences and the inclusion of reality-based video simulations. While the core content is widely seen as highly relevant and well-structured, some newer reviews suggest areas for improvement, such as updating information or providing more in-depth explanations for certain terms, though overall feedback remains overwhelmingly positive.
Structured weekly modules are easy to follow.
"The course structure is logical and easy to navigate week by week."
"Modules are broken down well, making it manageable to learn the material."
"I appreciated how the content progressed from basic structure to systems and procedures."
"Clear explanations and logical flow through the different topics."
Practical and applicable to real-world settings.
"The content is highly relevant to clinical practice and what you encounter daily."
"Found the information on vital signs and medication abbreviations particularly useful."
"The case studies and simulations made the relevance clear and actionable."
"Directly applicable to my work in a hospital environment."
Pronunciation focus and simulations are helpful.
"The pronunciation guidance was incredibly helpful, especially for complex terms."
"Liked the use of the video simulations at the end, it really helped put things into context."
"Visual and auditory aids significantly enhanced understanding and retention."
"The emphasis on how terms sound is a major plus for international learners."
Excellent overview of key terms and abbreviations.
"This course has given me a great foundation for medical terminology, which is essential for my career."
"It covers all the basic and important terms and abbreviations you need to know for a clinical setting."
"Provided a very good and solid foundation of clinical terms and abbreviations."
"A solid introduction to clinical terminology and abbreviations for anyone entering the field."
Some content could benefit from review/expansion.
"A few of the terms felt slightly outdated or could use more current examples."
"Could be improved with slightly more detail on certain complex topics."
"Some sections could perhaps be expanded slightly to cover more specific niche terminology."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Clinical Terminology for International and U.S. Students with these
activities:
Grammar Review
Show steps
Review grammar and sentence structure to ensure clear and effective communication in medical documentation.
Browse courses on
Grammar
Show steps
-
Review basic grammar rules and sentence structure.
-
Practice writing simple sentences and medical phrases.
Writing Exercises
Show steps
Practice writing clinical notes and other medical documentation to improve clarity, accuracy, and efficiency.
Browse courses on
Written Communication
Show steps
-
Choose a scenario and write a detailed patient note.
-
Review your writing for clarity, grammar, and the use of appropriate medical terminology.
-
Share your writing with a peer or instructor for feedback.
Vocabulary Practice
Show steps
Regularly review and practice clinical vocabulary to enhance understanding and retention.
Browse courses on
Medical Terminology
Show steps
-
Use flashcards, apps, or online resources to review clinical terms.
-
Complete quizzes or exercises that test your understanding of word definitions.
-
Participate in discussions or forums to clarify any unfamiliar terms.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Study Group
Show steps
Engage in regular study group sessions to discuss and clarify concepts, share knowledge, and enhance understanding.
Show steps
-
Meet with a group of peers to discuss the course material.
-
Share notes, ask questions, and solve problems together.
-
Take turns leading the discussions and presenting key concepts.
Decoding Practice
Show steps
Practice decoding clinical terms and abbreviations to solidify understanding and improve recognition.
Browse courses on
Understanding
Show steps
-
Review the clinical terms and abbreviations covered in class.
-
Take practice quizzes or complete online exercises focused on decoding medical jargon
-
Create flashcards with the terms and abbreviations for self-testing
Medical Terminology Resource List
Show steps
Compile a comprehensive list of medical terminology resources to support ongoing learning and reference.
Browse courses on
Medical Terminology
Show steps
-
Research and identify reputable sources for medical terminology, such as dictionaries, glossaries, and online databases.
-
Create a document or spreadsheet to organize the resources.
-
Include information such as resource title, author, publisher, and access details.
Simulator Sessions
Show steps
Engage in simulated clinical conversations to practice using clinical terms and abbreviations in realistic scenarios.
Browse courses on
Understanding
Show steps
-
Find online or offline resources that provide simulated clinical conversations.
-
Participate in role-playing exercises with a partner or group.
-
Record and review your interactions to identify areas for improvement.
Contribute to Open Source Medical Terminology Projects
Show steps
Participate in open source projects related to medical terminology to deepen your understanding and contribute to the community.
Browse courses on
Collaborative Learning
Show steps
-
Identify open source projects related to medical terminology.
-
Review the project documentation and contribute in areas where you can provide value.
-
Collaborate with project maintainers and other contributors.
Patient Case Study
Show steps
Develop a patient case study that incorporates clinical terms and abbreviations, demonstrating comprehension and application.
Browse courses on
Patient Care
Show steps
-
Identify a patient scenario or case study.
-
Research and document the relevant clinical terms and abbreviations.
-
Write a detailed case study using clear and concise language.
Grammar Review
Show steps
Review grammar and sentence structure to ensure clear and effective communication in medical documentation.
Browse courses on
Grammar
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic grammar rules and sentence structure.
- Practice writing simple sentences and medical phrases.
Writing Exercises
Show steps
Practice writing clinical notes and other medical documentation to improve clarity, accuracy, and efficiency.
Browse courses on
Written Communication
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a scenario and write a detailed patient note.
- Review your writing for clarity, grammar, and the use of appropriate medical terminology.
- Share your writing with a peer or instructor for feedback.
Vocabulary Practice
Show steps
Regularly review and practice clinical vocabulary to enhance understanding and retention.
Browse courses on
Medical Terminology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use flashcards, apps, or online resources to review clinical terms.
- Complete quizzes or exercises that test your understanding of word definitions.
- Participate in discussions or forums to clarify any unfamiliar terms.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Study Group
Show steps
Engage in regular study group sessions to discuss and clarify concepts, share knowledge, and enhance understanding.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Meet with a group of peers to discuss the course material.
- Share notes, ask questions, and solve problems together.
- Take turns leading the discussions and presenting key concepts.
Decoding Practice
Show steps
Practice decoding clinical terms and abbreviations to solidify understanding and improve recognition.
Browse courses on
Understanding
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the clinical terms and abbreviations covered in class.
- Take practice quizzes or complete online exercises focused on decoding medical jargon
- Create flashcards with the terms and abbreviations for self-testing
Medical Terminology Resource List
Show steps
Compile a comprehensive list of medical terminology resources to support ongoing learning and reference.
Browse courses on
Medical Terminology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify reputable sources for medical terminology, such as dictionaries, glossaries, and online databases.
- Create a document or spreadsheet to organize the resources.
- Include information such as resource title, author, publisher, and access details.
Simulator Sessions
Show steps
Engage in simulated clinical conversations to practice using clinical terms and abbreviations in realistic scenarios.
Browse courses on
Understanding
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online or offline resources that provide simulated clinical conversations.
- Participate in role-playing exercises with a partner or group.
- Record and review your interactions to identify areas for improvement.
Contribute to Open Source Medical Terminology Projects
Show steps
Participate in open source projects related to medical terminology to deepen your understanding and contribute to the community.
Browse courses on
Collaborative Learning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open source projects related to medical terminology.
- Review the project documentation and contribute in areas where you can provide value.
- Collaborate with project maintainers and other contributors.
Patient Case Study
Show steps
Develop a patient case study that incorporates clinical terms and abbreviations, demonstrating comprehension and application.
Browse courses on
Patient Care
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a patient scenario or case study.
- Research and document the relevant clinical terms and abbreviations.
- Write a detailed case study using clear and concise language.
Career center
Learners who complete Clinical Terminology for International and U.S. Students will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Audiometrist
Audiometrist
Audiometrists evaluate and diagnose hearing problems, prescribe and fit hearing aids, and provide counseling to individuals with hearing loss. This course would be helpful for audiometrists because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of audiology.
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistant
Physician assistants are licensed healthcare professionals who practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. They may perform a variety of tasks, such as taking medical histories, performing physical exams, and prescribing medications. This course would be helpful for physician assistants because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of medicine.
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurse
Registered nurses (RNs) provide direct patient care in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They may perform a variety of tasks, such as administering medications, changing dressings, and monitoring vital signs. This course would be helpful for RNs because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of nursing.
Medical Interpreter
Medical Interpreter
Medical interpreters provide interpretation services for patients who do not speak English. They interpret medical terminology and instructions for patients and their families. This course would be helpful for medical interpreters because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of medicine.
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapist
Physical therapists help people with disabilities or injuries to improve their movement and function. They may work with patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, and clinics. This course would be helpful for physical therapists because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of physical therapy.
Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists help people with breathing problems. They may work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This course would be helpful for respiratory therapists because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of respiratory therapy.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists help people with disabilities or injuries to improve their ability to perform everyday activities. They may work with patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, and clinics. This course would be helpful for occupational therapists because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of occupational therapy.
Dentist
Dentist
Dentists diagnose and treat diseases and injuries of the teeth and gums. They also provide preventive care, such as cleanings and fluoride treatments. This course would be helpful for dentists because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of dentistry.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists help people with speech, language, and swallowing problems. They may work with patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, and clinics. This course would be helpful for speech-language pathologists because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of speech-language pathology.
Veterinarian
Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals. They may also perform surgery and prescribe medications. This course would be helpful for veterinarians because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of veterinary medicine.
Paramedic
Paramedic
Paramedics provide emergency medical care to patients outside of a hospital setting. They may work on ambulances or in other emergency response vehicles. This course would be helpful for paramedics because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of emergency medical services.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing patient care. They may also perform other tasks, such as preparing medications and maintaining inventory. This course would be helpful for pharmacy technicians because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of pharmacy.
Medical Records Technician
Medical Records Technician
Medical records technicians manage and maintain medical records for patients. They code and file medical records, and they may also generate reports and summaries of medical information. This course would be helpful for medical records technicians because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of medicine.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) provide basic nursing care to patients under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. They perform tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with patient care. This course would be helpful for LPNs because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of nursing.
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistant
Medical assistants perform a variety of administrative and clinical tasks in a doctor's office or clinic. They may schedule appointments, take medical histories, and assist with examinations and procedures. This course would be helpful for medical assistants because it would provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the clinical terms and abbreviations commonly used in the field of medicine.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/e1iv38/clinical
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Clinical Terminology for International and U.S. Students.
This medical textbook provides over 2,500 pages of information on a wide range of cardiovascular topics. It comprehensive and authoritative resource for students and professionals alike.
This medical textbook provides over 4,000 pages of information on a wide range of urological topics. It comprehensive and authoritative resource for students and professionals alike.
This medical textbook provides over 1,800 pages of information on a wide range of pharmacological topics. It comprehensive and authoritative resource for students and professionals alike.
This medical textbook provides over 3,000 pages of information on a wide range of medical topics. It comprehensive and authoritative resource for students and professionals alike.
This medical textbook provides over 3,000 pages of information on a wide range of medical topics. It comprehensive and authoritative resource for students and professionals alike.
This medical textbook provides over 1,200 pages of information on a wide range of pharmacological topics. It concise and user-friendly resource for students and professionals alike.
This medical manual provides over 1,500 pages of information on a wide range of medical topics. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
This medical dictionary provides over 100,000 definitions and over 7,000 illustrations. It comprehensive and authoritative resource for students and professionals alike.
This medical dictionary provides over 56,000 definitions and over 2,400 illustrations. It convenient and portable resource for students and professionals alike.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/e1iv38/clinical
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Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Pittsburgh
Instructors
Valerie Swigart, Ph.D. R.N.
Michael Gold, Ph.D.
Language
English
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