GLOSSARY OF TERMS

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Gliding joint – The area where two flat-surfaced bones, such as those in the wrist and foot, slide over one another, providing for limited movement.

Health educator – an individual who informs and trains patients on health-related topics.

Hemovac – a drain inserted into the area of surgery to allow excess fluids, such as blood, to escape.
 
Hemoglobin – a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to body tissues.

Hinge joint – a body joint, such as the elbow and knee, that allows for movement in one plane, such as up and down.

Hip abduction – use of the hip muscles to move the leg away from the central line of the body.

Hip adduction – use of the hip muscles to move the leg toward the central line of the body.

IM – internal medicine; diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the internal organs.

Inflammation - swelling, redness, and pain experienced in an area of the body.

Informed consent – related to participation in a research study; the process of ensuring that patients have all pertinent information and providing them with answers to their questions and concerns about the research study prior to their consent or agreement to participate in a research protocol.

Ibuprofen – a drug commonly used to alleviate pain, and reduce inflammation and fever; available in non-prescription and prescription forms, depending on strength.

Inflammatory arthritis – a condition that causes joints to become inflamed.

In-patient – a patient who remains overnight in a medical facility, such as a hospital or clinic, for treatment.

Intravenous – the provision of drugs or nutrition directly into the bloodstream through a vein.

IV – an intravenous tube used to provide drugs or nutrition directly into the bloodstream through a vein.

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