Easy Medical Abbreviations Trivia Quiz | Medical Lingo / Abbreviations

Quiz Answer Key and Fun Facts

1. The medical abbreviation BID is the abbreviation of the Latin term "bis in die" and is used in pharmacy. What does this abbreviation mean?

Answer: Twice a day

The medical abbreviation BID is used to indicate how often and at what time the medication should be taken. This is also used to indicate physical therapy and respiratory treatments.

2. CVA is a cerebrovascular accident. This can be an extremely debilitating illness. What term is most commonly used to describe this attack?

Answer: Stroke

A CVA can be a catastrophic occurrence to anyone who suffers from such an incident. A CVA is caused by the blood flow to your brain being interrupted causing confusion, weakness, dizziness and trouble seeing. Another medical emergency called TIA, or "transient ischemic attack", is very similar to the CVA.

This is considered to be a mini stroke. The difference between the TIA and CVA is that, often, the TIA is caused by a blockage, usually a blood clot, that is only temporary. With the TIA there is no brain damage as with the CVA.

There is little difference in the symptoms so time is of the essence. Call the medical emergency number immediately when any symptoms appear to prevent further damage.

3. Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction, or NSTEMI, can cause long term disabilities. What, in layman terms, is the name of this sudden attack?

Answer: Heart attack

An NSTEMI is a heart attack that causes less heart damage than a STEMI (an ST-elevation myocardial infarction), which is a major heart attack. The "ST" is a segment on a EKG or electrocardiogram which measures the rhythm of the heart. When the "ST" segment is not elevated this condition is also called ACS or "acute coronary syndrome. Cardiac catherization is the best way to prevent a NSTEMI from turning into a more deadly STEMI.

4. MRSA is an acronym to describe an infection that is caused by bacteria that have become resistant to many antibiotics. The "methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus infection" can start as a small sore, often thought to be a spider or insect bite. What is another more common name given to this infection?

Answer: Staph infection

MRSA is a strain of bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics we used in times past. These antibiotics were once used to treat a "staph" infection but the bacteria have become resistant to the antibiotics. Anyone can get the MRSA bacteria but it is usually found in healthcare facilities where people are in a weakened physical condition. Those treating any patients should thoroughly wash their hands, especially when handling any body fluids. One can be infected with the MRSA bacteria through physical contact. Practice good hygiene even if you are not in a healthcare environment. Be safe and wash your hands often.

5. ASA is a common over the counter drug, which is regularly given to those with heart disease. This drug is known as "acetyl salicylic acid". What is this commonly known drug?

Answer: Aspirin

Aspirin is given to treat many types of ailments. It is an analgesic, which means that it does not affect the level of consciousness or cause sedation. Aspirin can be found naturally in willow trees and myrtle. It was used as far back as 3000 BC by the Third Dynasty of Ur.

The willow plant was also used by many cultures, such as the Roman Empire, North American tribes and ancient Arab, Aztec and Mayan civilizations. Even the Apollo moon astronauts had aspirin with them when travelling to the moon!

6. ER is most commonly used when referring to the "Emergency Room" but can also be used when referring to pharmaceutical drugs and how they are released into the body after being taken. What characteristics does this abbreviation identify for this type of drug?

Answer: Extended release

The introduction of "extended release" medication has allowed patients to take medication less frequently. "Extended release" medication is formulated in such a way that it facilities the active ingredients to be released more slowly into the bloodstream. Extended medications should not be split.

7. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is a very unpleasant illness that affects your eating and drinking habits. GERD can also cause erosion in the esophagus, so early treatment is important. What is the more common name for this illness?

Answer: Heart burn

GERD is when the stomach juices flow back into the esophagus, which can cause a bile like taste in the mouth. Some people experience a burning pain and they feel like they are having a heart attack. An important thing to remember is that GERD does not need any exertion to occur whereas a heart attack is usually caused by exertion.

8. PPD is a test most healthcare workers must have yearly. This testing is also called a "Purified Protein Test". What does this test indicate?

Answer: Tuberculosis

The bacteria of tuberculosis (TB) can stay in the body for a long time. Although it may be inactive, it can weaken the immune system. Suddenly the TB can become active and bring about fever, coughing, weight loss and sweating while sleeping.

9. SSS is an acronym for "Sick Sinus Syndrome". This affects the sinus node in the heart which causes dizziness and fatigue. What is this syndrome in common terms?

Answer: Heart rhythm disorders

Everyone has a natural pacemaker. It is called the sinus node or SA node. It is located in the right upper chamber of the heart. This is where the electrical impulses excite the heart causing it to contract, making our heart beat.

10. TPR means temperature, pulse and respiration. In nursing, when charting the TPR, what are these "signs" commonly called?

Answer: Vital signs

Vital signs are vital! By regularly having them measured and tracked doctors are able to see the warning signs before the patient takes a turn for the worse. Newer technology is making the tracking of vital signs easier for the patient and the healthcare provider.

A device as small as a business card can be worn by the patient to track the patient's vitals, bringing more comfort and flexibility to the patient and staff.

Source: Author Zakie3

This quiz was reviewed by FunTrivia editor rossian before going online.
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Medical Abbreviations Trivia Quiz

In the medical field, abbreviations are used to simplify the physician ordering process and clinical documentation. This adds a little more time to the medical worker's busy day. It also saves space on prescription bottles and progress notes.

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