Clinical Terminology for International and U.S. Students from Coursera

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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.

Decoding Complex Medical Terms

In week 2, we expand our focus to learn about abbreviations and terms used in the hospital environment. You will tour a modern U.S. clinical unit and visit the bedside of three patients. These vicarious bedside experiences will help you to imagine the context in which the terms and abbreviations are used. Making associations of the terms or abbreviations to specific people, places or types of patients will help to “set” them in your memory. Begin Week 2 by previewing the complex medical terms you will find in this lesson and sharpening your skills for analyzing the structure of complex terms.

Advanced Decoding Strategies for Clinical Terms

This week, Dr. Swigart shares more strategies toward discovering the meaning of complex medical/scientific words. It focuses on three essential clinical topics: abbreviations used in emergency situations, the timing and route of medications, and the administration of intravenous infusions. Learning about abbreviations related to medication and intravenous fluid administration requires that you pay close attention.

Diseases of the Bodily Systems

This week turns the focus to the acronyms commonly substituted for the name of diseases and conditions of the bodily systems. To help you relate the disease and its acronym, we have organized the diseases according to systems of the body. First letters of words or syllables usually form the acronym, and commonly at least one letter relates to a system of the body.

Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures

This week, the lecture focuses on the important aspects of patient safety when using abbreviations. The readings focus on laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures. A patient-case approach is used to help you make associations between diseases and the tests or procedures typically required.

Practice Understanding Clinical Abbreviations and Complex Terms in Clinical Situations

As you worked through Week 1-5 sessions you have learned about abbreviations and terms used every day in clinical practice. Now you are ready to use your new knowledge and test your comprehension skills. This week you see and hear clinical conversation in reality-based video simulations.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, 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

Reviews summary

Clinical terminology for the 21st century hospital

Learners say this course on clinical terminology is well received, especially for those new to the field. Students are largely positive about the engaging assignments, especially the clinical simulations. The course is well respected for its thorough coverage of medical terms, abbreviations, procedures, and equipment. Students cite the course's clear videos and readings as key features in their positive reviews.

This course covers the importance of using standardized terminology in a clinical setting.

"I found it easy to follow. The quizzes just after the lessons were helpful. Examples were clear. Easy to understand."

"Un curso muy util, dinamico y asertivo. Me encantaria que existieran mas, con mas ejemplos y temas de medicina. Muy completo."

"Great for beginner! I learned everything necessary for my further study in med-university <3 Love it!!"

"Excellent course! Well prepared, well organized. So interesting that it keeps you wanting to "keep learning.""

Students comment favorably on how well organized the course is, noting that the materials flow well from week to week.

"This was a WONDERFUL introduction to the world of Medical Terminology, scribing, and the patient-care experience."

"The course is very useful for students who approach medical practice for the first time. Although it can't provide all the medical abbreviations due to limited time, I gain an overview about clinical terminology, which can help my studylotlot. The most thing I like about this course is that the teacher taught me how to decode comlicated medical words by myself."

"The course was excellent. I liked it a lot as I learned how to organize the studying materials. It keeps the student search and check the concepts of the medical terminology."

"I think this course is well compiled in terms of basic clinical terminology. It is also good for students whom begin to learn latin and terminology bond and use it in their professional life."

Learners say this course provides a large vocabulary of medical terms and abbreviations.

"I learned some new medical terminology in English on American clinic unit even if I am a doctor. I graduated from my undergraduate university and graduate university in China."

"I think this course is well compiled in terms of basic clinical terminology. It is also good for students whom begin to learn latin and terminology bond and use it in their professional life."

"Great for beginner! I learned everything necessary for my further study in med-university <3 Love it!!"

"The course was excellent. I liked it a lot as I learned how to organize the studying materials. It keeps the student search and check the concepts of the medical terminology."

Learners particularly enjoy the strategy of using prefixes, root words, and suffixes to understand medical terms.

"The course was excellent. I liked it a lot as I learned how to organize the studying materials. It keeps the student search and check the concepts of the medical terminology. I myself wanted to understand this field and not only competing the course. Here it is not the end, I will keep revising what I learned and expand my knowledge in this field."

"I think this course is well compiled in terms of basic clinical terminology. It is also good for students whom begin to learn latin and terminology bond and use it in their professional life."

"The course is aptly designed to provide important information about the ways by which medical terms can be dissected and understood."

Students appreciate the clinical simulation exercises that put their knowledge of medical terminology to work.

"With the videos and medical situation scenarios, students learn the medical terms gradually but effectively. I found the course helpful in the academic as well as medical setting."

"By using the clinical situation, abbreviations, and terms are easier to understand. This course is so helpful for me to have an essential knowledge that I can extend my learning by myself then."

"The course was excellent. I liked it a lot as I learned how to organize the studying materials. It keeps the student search and check the concepts of the medical 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

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Review grammar and sentence structure to ensure clear and effective communication in medical documentation.

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Review basic grammar rules and sentence structure.
Practice writing simple sentences and medical phrases.

Writing Exercises

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Practice writing clinical notes and other medical documentation to improve clarity, accuracy, and efficiency.

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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

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Regularly review and practice clinical vocabulary to enhance understanding and retention.

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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

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Study Group

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Engage in regular study group sessions to discuss and clarify concepts, share knowledge, and enhance understanding.

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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

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Practice decoding clinical terms and abbreviations to solidify understanding and improve recognition.

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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

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Compile a comprehensive list of medical terminology resources to support ongoing learning and reference.

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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

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Engage in simulated clinical conversations to practice using clinical terms and abbreviations in realistic scenarios.

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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

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Participate in open source projects related to medical terminology to deepen your understanding and contribute to the community.

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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

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Develop a patient case study that incorporates clinical terms and abbreviations, demonstrating comprehension and application.

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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

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audiometrist

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Assistant