Healthcare vocabulary (entrance exams) worksheet with answers

What does the suffix -ostomy mean, as in “colostomy”?

1. AInflammation of an organ
2. BSurgically removing an organ
3. CSurgically creating an opening
4. DAbnormal enlargement of an organ

Choose the meaning of the word in bold: “The wound was superficial, so it healed quickly.”

1. ADeep into the tissue and serious
2. BBleeding heavily
3. COn the surface; not deep
4. DInfected

Which body part does the root mamm/o or mast/o refer to?

1. AStomach
2. BHip
3. CBreast
4. DMuscle

Choose the meaning of the words in bold: “The nurse recorded the patient’s intake and output.”

1. AMedicines given and refused
2. BCalories eaten and calories burned
3. CFluids taken in and fluids lost
4. DVisitors coming and going

Choose the meaning of the word in bold: “On a busy shift the nurse must prioritise patient care.”

1. AWrite down everything that has been done
2. BHand tasks over to others
3. CDecide what is most important first
4. DPut off tasks until later

Choose the meaning of the word in bold: “Pain is a subjective symptom.”

1. AAlways serious and urgent
2. BSeen easily by other people
3. CBased on the patient’s own experience
4. DMeasured with an instrument such as a thermometer

What does the term pneumothorax mean?

1. AInflammation of the lung tissue
2. BAir in the chest cavity around the lung
3. CBlood in the chest cavity
4. DFluid filling the tiny air sacs of the lung

Choose the meaning of the word in bold: “The child with croup had loud stridor.”

1. AHigh-pitched noisy breathing
2. BFine crackles at the lung bases
3. CAn extra sound from a heart valve
4. DSnoring during deep sleep