TransWikia.com

Is there a word for a piece of medical data about the body

English Language & Usage Asked by pondermatic on August 4, 2020

Is there a word or phrase which encompasses things like a heartbeat recording, x-ray scan, EKG output, a record of blood oxygen levels from a pulse oximeter etc.

What name would you give to data about a person's illnesses, ailments, diseases and medical condition? is too broad. I’m looking for something which would apply to each item, like record or datum.

3 Answers

"Reading," "readout/read-out," "measurement," "display," "scan," or "indication" could work (depending on the type of data and machine).

Reading:

A figure or amount shown by a meter or other measuring instrument. [Lexico]

Readout/read-out:

A visual record or display of the output from a computer or scientific instrument. [Lexico]

Measurement:

The size, length, or amount of something, as established by measuring. [Lexico]

Display:

The data shown on a computer screen or other device. [Lexico]

Scan:

A medical examination using a scanner. [Lexico]

Indication:

A reading given by a gauge or meter. [Lexico]

Answered by John B. on August 4, 2020

One word I haven't seen anyone use is "vitals," but that typically has a connotation of essential, immediate readings, and it's mostly used by medical professionals.

Scans and tests (x-rays, blood tests, brain scans, ultrasounds, etc.) would not fall under the term vital, as they are not immediate, time-sensitive information about the body.

The vital signs (body temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate), along with blood pressure and oxygen saturation would be considered vitals, as they can easily indicate when someone needs immediate attention. I think EKG would also typically be included if someone using the word was speaking more broadly (but generally only in hospitals, as your average doctor doesn't take EKGs unless something is suspected to be wrong).

Answered by Charlie on August 4, 2020

Diagnostics or results could be used

Answered by Indira Singh on August 4, 2020

Add your own answers!

Ask a Question

Get help from others!

© 2024 TransWikia.com. All rights reserved. Sites we Love: PCI Database, UKBizDB, Menu Kuliner, Sharing RPP