This is an evolving glossary of some of the terms and acronyms found on this website and commonly used in the medical profession:

ABCs – Airway, Breathing, and Circulation, the algorithm by which emergencies and medical issues are prioritized.

Code – A patient whose heart has stopped beating, and is effectively dead and in the process of attempted resuscitation.

CVA – Cardiovascular Accident, commonly referred to as a stroke.

EMT – Emergency Medical Technicians – used in this context to refer to the ambulance personnel

ER/ED – Emergency Room/Emergency Department

GSW - Gunshot wound

MI - Myocardial infarct, commonly known as a heart attack.

PA – Physician's Assistant - a professional who practices medicine under the supervision of physicians and surgeons. PAs are formally trained to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive health care services, as delegated by a physician. Working as members of the health care team, they take medical histories, examine and treat patients, order and interpret laboratory tests and x rays, and make diagnoses. They also treat minor injuries, by suturing, splinting, and casting. PAs record progress notes, instruct and counsel patients, and order or carry out therapy. In 48 States and the District of Columbia, physician assistants may prescribe some medications. In some establishments, a PA is responsible for managerial duties, such as ordering medical supplies or equipment and supervising technicians and assistants.

RN – Registered Nurse