DHO chapter 12: Computer Technology in Health Care

browser

software that allows the user to access information on the Internet

central processing unit (CPU)

processes the input and performs the operations of the computer by following the instructions in the software

computer literacy

a basic understanding of how the computer works and a basic understanding of the applications used in your field or profession.

computer-assisted instruction (CAI)

educational computer programming designed for individualized use.

computerized tomography (CT)

medical imaging scanner that uses x-rays to see cross sectional views of the body tissues

database

is an organized collection of information

echocardiograph

utilizes a computer to direct ultrahigh frequency sound waves through the chest wall and into the heart

electronic mail

the process of creating and sending messaged from one computer to another

fields

information is entered into these areas

hardware

the machine components including the keyboard, central processing unit, disk drive, and monitor

input

information that is entered into a computer by means of an input device

interactive video

integration of computer and video technology

internet

links millions of computers throughout the world

magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

body scanner that uses nuclear magnetic resonance

mainframe computer

can control the launching of a rocket to outer space

microcomputer

a handheld computer

modem

an electronic device that sends or receives computer data over telephone lines or cable

networks

systems of computers linked together

output

the processed information, or final product; it can be displayed on a screen printed as hard copy, stored on magnetic tape or disks, or transmitted to another user or users

personal computer

computer that can sit on a desktop

positron emission tomography (PET)

body scanner that uses a radioactive substance which is injected into the patient and detected by the scanner

random access memory (RAM)

a program that is not permanent because data can be stored, changed, and retrieved

read only memory (ROM)

a permanent program already built and stored in the computer system by the manufacturer of the computer

record

within a database, each collection of related information

software

consist of programs that allow the computer to perform specific tasks

spreadsheet

uses special software to access a computer's ability to perform math calculations

stress test

an ECG run while the patient is exercising

telemedicine

involves the use of video, audio, and computer systems to provide medical services

Telepharmacies

allow for rapid dispensing of medications

ultrasonography

noninvasive scanning method using high frequency sound waves