Glossary of Surgical Terms
This glossary explains key terms and concepts related to the surgical procedure flow. Use it as a reference for unfamiliar words you encounter in this guide.
- Preoperative
- Before surgery; refers to the period or preparations prior to a surgical procedure.
- Postoperative
- After surgery; refers to the period or care following a surgical procedure.
- Anesthesia
- Medications or techniques used to prevent pain during surgery, including general, regional, and local anesthesia.
- Anesthesiologist
- A doctor specializing in anesthesia and perioperative care.
- Operating Room (OR)
- A sterile room in a hospital where surgical operations are performed.
- PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit)
- A recovery area where patients are monitored as they wake up from anesthesia.
- Ward
- A hospital room or area where patients stay for ongoing care after surgery.
- Informed Consent
- The process of explaining the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a procedure to a patient, who then agrees to proceed.
- Fasting
- Not eating or drinking for a specified period before surgery to reduce anesthesia risks.
- Sterile Preparation
- Cleaning and draping the surgical area to prevent infection.
- Site Marking
- Marking the surgical site on the patient's body to ensure the correct location is operated on.
- Handoff Communication
- The transfer of important patient information between healthcare teams during transitions in care.
- IV (Intravenous) Line
- A tube inserted into a vein to deliver fluids or medications.
- ECG (Electrocardiogram)
- A test that records the electrical activity of the heart.
- Pulse Oximeter
- A device that measures the oxygen saturation of the blood.
- Vital Signs
- Measurements of the body's most basic functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature.
- Incision
- A surgical cut made to access the inside of the body.
- Sutures
- Stitches used to close wounds or surgical incisions.
- Staples
- Metal clips used to close skin after surgery.
- Dressing
- A sterile covering placed over a wound or incision.
- Mobilization
- Encouraging movement and activity after surgery to aid recovery.