Vocabulary Words Every Surgical Technologist Should Know

Surgery

Definition: A medical procedure in which a doctor cuts into the body to repair or remove something.

• She had surgery to fix her broken arm.
• The surgery went well, and he recovered quickly.
• Understanding surgery helps in knowing medical procedures.

Surgery in a sentence

Doctor

Definition: A person who is trained to treat medical conditions.

• The doctor helps people stay healthy.
• I went to the doctor for a check-up.
• She wants to be a doctor when she grows up.

Doctor in a sentence

Nurse

Definition: A trained person who cares for the sick or injured.

• The nurse helped me when I was feeling unwell.
• Nurses play an important role in hospitals.
• She is a kind nurse who works with children.

Nurse in a sentence

Patient

Definition: Able to wait without getting angry.

• She is very patient with her students.
• It's important to be patient when learning.
• He waited patiently for his turn.

Patient in a sentence

Tool

Definition: An instrument or device used to perform a task.

• A hammer is a useful tool for building.
• I need a tool to fix my bike.
• He used a tool to cut the wood.

Tool in a sentence

Cut

Definition: To divide or make something smaller using a sharp tool.

• Please cut the paper into smaller pieces.
• He will cut the vegetables for the salad.
• I need to cut my hair this weekend.

Cut in a sentence

Stitch

Definition: A loop of thread used to hold fabric together; also refers to the act of sewing.

• She learned how to stitch fabric for her project.
• The doctor gave him a stitch after the cut.
• He made a neat stitch along the edge of the cloth.

Stitch in a sentence

Clean

Definition: To make something free of dirt or mess.

• I need to clean my room before my friends come.
• She will clean the dishes after dinner.
• We should clean up the classroom together.

Clean in a sentence

Blood

Definition: The red liquid that circulates in the body.

• Blood carries oxygen to all parts of the body.
• He learned about blood types in science class.
• The doctor took a sample of her blood for testing.

Blood in a sentence

Bandage

Definition: A strip of cloth used to cover and protect an injury.

• She put a bandage on her cut.
• The nurse will give you a bandage for your wound.
• He needs a bandage for his scraped knee.

Bandage in a sentence

Pain

Definition: An unpleasant feeling often caused by injury or illness.

• He felt pain in his leg after the fall.
• She took medicine to relieve the pain.
• The pain in her stomach made her uncomfortable.

Pain in a sentence

Heal

Definition: To make someone or something healthy again.

• The doctor will help heal your injury.
• Time can heal emotional wounds.
• We need to heal the environment for future generations.

Heal in a sentence

Room

Definition: A space within a building used for a specific purpose.

• I have my own room for studying.
• The hotel room has two beds and a bathroom.
• We need to clean our classroom room before guests arrive.

Room in a sentence

Help

Definition: To assist someone with something.

• Can you help me with my homework?
• She helped her mother in the kitchen.
• He always helps his friends.

Help in a sentence

Safe

Definition: Free from harm or danger.

• It is important to keep our home safe.
• Always wear a helmet to stay safe while biking.
• This is a safe place for kids to play.

Safe in a sentence

Care

Definition: To look after someone or something; to be concerned about.

• I care about my family and friends.
• Please take care of your pets.
• The doctor will care for the patients.

Care in a sentence

Time

Definition: A measured period during which events occur; a point in the day.

• What time is it now?
• We need to manage our time wisely.
• Time flies when you're having fun.

Time in a sentence

Wait

Definition: To stay in one place until something happens.

• Please wait for me after school.
• I will wait for my turn.
• He had to wait in line for tickets.

Wait in a sentence

Team

Definition: A group of individuals working together towards a common goal.

• The soccer team practiced every day after school.
• They formed a team for the science project.
• Teamwork is essential for success.

Team in a sentence

Dress

Definition: To put on clothes or a garment worn on the body.

• She likes to dress nicely for school.
• I will dress up for the party this weekend.
• He bought a new dress for the dance.

Hospital

Definition: A place where sick or injured people receive medical care.

• She was taken to the hospital after the accident.
• The hospital is open 24 hours a day.
• Doctors and nurses work hard in the hospital.

Hospital in a sentence

Instrument

Definition: A tool or device used for a specific purpose, especially in music or science.

• He plays a musical instrument in the band.
• The scientist used an instrument to measure temperature.
• She learned to play several instruments in school.

Instrument in a sentence

Wound

Definition: An injury to the body, especially one that breaks the skin.

• He had a wound on his arm from falling.
• It's important to clean a wound properly.
• Understanding how to treat a wound is crucial for safety.

Wound in a sentence

Operation

Definition: A process or procedure, especially in business or medicine.

• The operation was successful and he is recovering.
• They discussed the operation of the new system.
• The operation will start next week.

Operation in a sentence

Safety

Definition: The condition of being protected from danger or harm.

• Safety is the most important thing in our school.
• We should practice safety rules when crossing the street.
• The safety of the children is our top priority.

Safety in a sentence

Check

Definition: To look at something to verify its accuracy; a written order for payment.

• Please check your answers before submitting.
• He wrote a check to pay for the groceries.
• She will check the schedule for the meeting.

Check in a sentence

Recovery

Definition: the process of getting better after an illness or difficult situation

• Her recovery from the flu was quick.
• He is in recovery after the surgery.
• The doctor said that full recovery will take a few weeks.

Recovery in a sentence

Support

Definition: To help or provide assistance to someone or something.

• Friends should support each other.
• The community came together to support the event.
• We need to support local businesses.

Support in a sentence

Emergency

Definition: A serious situation requiring immediate action.

• Call 911 in case of an emergency.
• They practiced emergency drills at school.
• He handled the emergency with calmness.

Emergency in a sentence

Medicine

Definition: A substance used to treat illness or injury.

• I took medicine to help with my cold.
• The doctor prescribed some medicine for her.
• It's important to take medicine as directed.

Medicine in a sentence

Sterile

Definition: Free from bacteria or other living microorganisms; clean and safe.

• The hospital room must be sterile to prevent infections.
• She used sterile equipment during the experiment.
• Understanding sterile conditions is important in healthcare.

Sterile in a sentence

Incision

Definition: a cut made in the skin or surface

• The doctor made a small incision during the surgery.
• She felt nervous about the incision needed for the procedure.
• The incision healed well after a few days.

Incision in a sentence

Anesthesia

Definition: A medical treatment that prevents pain during surgery; a state of controlled unconsciousness.

• The doctor explained the anesthesia process before surgery.
• He felt no pain because of the anesthesia.
• Anesthesia is crucial for many medical procedures.

Anesthesia in a sentence

Procedure

Definition: a series of steps to accomplish a task

• Follow the procedure to complete the assignment.
• The procedure for the experiment was explained.
• He learned the procedure for making cookies.

Procedure in a sentence

Sutures

Definition: Plural of suture; stitches or lines used to close wounds or connect tissues.

• The surgeon checked the sutures to ensure proper healing.
• She learned about different types of sutures in her class.
• Proper care of sutures is essential for recovery.

Scalpels

Definition: Plural of scalpel; small knives used for surgical procedures.

• The doctor prepared several scalpels for the operation.
• They sterilized the scalpels before use.
• Scalpels are crucial tools in surgery.

Gloves

Definition: Hand coverings made of fabric or leather, often worn for warmth or protection.

• She wore gloves to keep her hands warm in winter.
• He took off his gloves to help with the project.
• The gloves are too big for me.

Disinfect

Definition: To clean something to remove germs or bacteria.

• We need to disinfect the kitchen surfaces.
• She used wipes to disinfect the table.
• He always disinfects his hands after shopping.

Disinfect in a sentence

Monitor

Definition: To watch or check something carefully; a device for displaying information.

• He will monitor the progress of the project.
• The teacher uses a monitor to display lessons.
• They installed a monitor to track the system.

Monitor in a sentence

Assist

Definition: To help someone with a task or problem.

• I will assist you with your homework if you need help.
• The teacher asked me to assist my classmates during the project.
• Doctors assist patients in getting better.

Assist in a sentence

Dressing

Definition: A sauce or mixture added to salads; also refers to putting on clothes.

• She made a delicious dressing for the salad.
• He forgot to put on his dressing before going out.
• Understanding dressing can enhance meal flavors.

Dressing in a sentence

Infection

Definition: The invasion of germs that can cause illness.

• He had an infection that needed treatment.
• Washing hands helps prevent infections.
• She learned about infections in her health class.

Infection in a sentence

Protocol

Definition: A set of rules or procedures to be followed in certain situations.

• The protocol for the experiment was carefully followed.
• They established a protocol for handling emergencies.
• Understanding the protocol is important for safety.

Protocol in a sentence

Aseptic

Definition: Free from contamination by harmful bacteria.

• Aseptic techniques are important in labs.
• The nurse used aseptic methods during the procedure.
• He learned about aseptic environments in class.

Aseptic in a sentence

Scalpel

Definition: A small, sharp knife used in surgery or dissection.

• The surgeon used a scalpel to make the first incision.
• He learned how to handle a scalpel safely in class.
• A scalpel is essential for precise surgical procedures.

Scalpel in a sentence

Sterilization

Definition: The process of making something free from bacteria or other living microorganisms.

• Sterilization is crucial in medical settings to prevent infection.
• The dentist used sterilization methods for his tools.
• They practiced sterilization techniques in the lab.

Sterilization in a sentence

Disinfection

Definition: The process of cleaning something to remove or kill germs.

• Disinfection is crucial in hospitals to prevent infections.
• He learned about disinfection methods in class.
• Understanding disinfection helps in maintaining health.

Disinfection in a sentence

Hemorrhage

Definition: Excessive bleeding, either internally or externally.

• The patient experienced a hemorrhage after the accident.
• Hemorrhage can be life-threatening if not treated.
• Understanding hemorrhage is crucial in emergencies.

Hemorrhage in a sentence

Retractors

Definition: Plural of retractor; tools used in surgery to hold back tissue.

• The team prepared several retractors for the procedure.
• Different types of retractors are used for various surgeries.
• Surgical retractors are essential for successful operations.

Laparoscopic

Definition: Referring to surgery performed using a laparoscope; minimally invasive.

• Laparoscopic procedures typically involve smaller scars.
• He had laparoscopic surgery to remove his appendix.
• The recovery time for laparoscopic surgery is usually shorter.

Hemostasis

Definition: The process of stopping bleeding, either naturally or artificially.

• Hemostasis is crucial during surgery.
• The body’s ability to achieve hemostasis is vital.
• Understanding hemostasis helps in medical emergencies.

Hemostasis in a sentence

Trocar

Definition: A surgical instrument used to insert a tube into the body for drainage or fluid removal.

• The doctor used a trocar during the procedure.
• He learned about the trocar in his medical course.
• Understanding the trocar's use is essential for surgery.

Trocar in a sentence

Pathology

Definition: The study of diseases and their causes, effects, and processes.

• Pathology helps doctors understand illnesses.
• She is interested in pathology and wants to become a doctor.
• Understanding pathology is essential for medical studies.

Pathology in a sentence

Biopsy

Definition: A medical test involving the removal of tissue to examine for disease.

• A biopsy can help determine if a tumor is cancerous.
• He underwent a biopsy for further evaluation.
• Understanding a biopsy process can ease patient concerns.

Biopsy in a sentence

Antiseptic

Definition: A substance used to prevent infection by killing germs.

• She applied antiseptic to her cut.
• The doctor used antiseptic wipes before the procedure.
• Antiseptic is important for cleaning wounds.

Antiseptic in a sentence

Instruments

Definition: Tools or devices used for a specific purpose.

• The musician played several instruments in the band.
• They used instruments to measure the temperature.
• Scientists use various instruments in their experiments.

Suturing

Definition: The act of stitching up a wound or incision.

• The nurse was skilled in suturing wounds quickly.
• He practiced suturing techniques in his training.
• Understanding suturing is crucial for medical professionals.

Suturing in a sentence

Surgical

Definition: Related to or involving surgery.

• The surgical team prepared for the operation.
• She is studying surgical techniques in medical school.
• Surgical procedures can be complex and require skill.

Surgical in a sentence

Complications

Definition: Multiple unexpected problems that arise in a situation.

• There were several complications during the project that caused delays.
• Health complications can occur if medications are not taken correctly.
• The report outlined complications faced during the study.

Diagnosis

Definition: The identification of a disease or problem based on symptoms.

• The doctor made a diagnosis after the exam.
• She received a diagnosis of a mild illness.
• He explained the diagnosis to the patient.

Diagnosis in a sentence

Technique

Definition: A way of doing something, especially in a skillful manner.

• He learned a new technique for playing the guitar.
• The artist used a unique technique for her painting.
• We practiced the technique repeatedly to improve.

Technique in a sentence

Teamwork

Definition: The collaborative effort of a group to achieve a common goal.

• Teamwork is essential for successful projects.
• They emphasized the importance of teamwork in sports.
• Good teamwork improves group performance.

Teamwork in a sentence

Equipment

Definition: Tools or devices used for a specific purpose.

• We need new equipment for the science lab.
• The gym has all the right equipment for workouts.
• She bought equipment for her photography hobby.

Equipment in a sentence

Intervention

Definition: The act of intervening to prevent or alter a situation; often to improve conditions.

• The teacher's intervention helped the struggling student.
• They discussed intervention strategies in health class.
• The intervention was successful in improving outcomes.

Intervention in a sentence

Observation

Definition: The act of watching something carefully to gain information.

• Her observation of the stars was amazing.
• He made an observation about the weather.
• The scientist's observation helped with the research.

Observation in a sentence

Coagulation

Definition: The process of blood clotting to stop bleeding.

• Coagulation is essential for healing after an injury.
• He learned about coagulation in his health class.
• Understanding coagulation helps in medical treatments.

Coagulation in a sentence

Dissection

Definition: The process of cutting apart and examining something to study its structure.

• The dissection of the frog was part of the science class.
• He found the dissection fascinating and educational.
• Understanding dissection helps in learning biological concepts.

Dissection in a sentence

Laparoscopy

Definition: A surgical procedure that uses a laparoscope to view the abdominal organs.

• Laparoscopy allows for less pain and quicker recovery.
• She underwent laparoscopy to diagnose her condition.
• Understanding laparoscopy can help patients feel more informed.

Laparoscopy in a sentence

Ligation

Definition: The process of tying or binding something, often in a medical context.

• Ligation is used to stop bleeding during surgery.
• The doctor performed ligation to prevent blood flow.
• She learned about ligation techniques in her training.

Ligation in a sentence

Retractor

Definition: A surgical instrument used to hold back tissues or organs during procedures.

• The surgeon used a retractor during the operation.
• Retractors help improve visibility during surgery.
• Understanding how to use a retractor is vital in surgery.

Retractor in a sentence

Cautery

Definition: The instrument used to burn tissue in medical procedures.

• The surgeon used a cautery to control the bleeding.
• Cautery is a common technique in surgeries.
• She learned how to use the cautery in her training.

Cautery in a sentence

Instrumentation

Definition: The use of instruments to measure or control processes.

• Instrumentation is essential in scientific experiments.
• The laboratory has advanced instrumentation for research.
• He learned about instrumentation in his engineering course.

Instrumentation in a sentence

Drainage

Definition: The system of removing water from an area; often related to fields or roads.

• Good drainage prevents flooding in the garden.
• They installed drainage systems around the house.
• The drainage ditches helped during heavy rain.

Drainage in a sentence

Spillage

Definition: The act of spilling a liquid; the amount of liquid that has been spilled.

• There was a spillage of paint on the floor.
• They cleaned up the spillage quickly.
• The spillage from the container caused a mess.

Spillage in a sentence

Anatomy

Definition: the study of the structure of living things

• Anatomy helps us understand how our bodies work.
• She is studying human anatomy in her biology class.
• Understanding anatomy is essential for medical fields.

Anatomy in a sentence

Asepsis

Definition: The absence of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.

• Asepsis is crucial in surgical procedures.
• They practiced asepsis to prevent infections.
• The lab maintained asepsis during experiments.

Asepsis in a sentence

Laparotomy

Definition: A surgical procedure that involves making a large incision in the abdomen.

• The doctor recommended a laparotomy for further examination.
• She recovered well after her laparotomy surgery.
• Laparotomy is often used for serious conditions.

Laparotomy in a sentence

Microbiology

Definition: The study of tiny living organisms, like bacteria and viruses.

• Microbiology helps us understand diseases and infections.
• She is interested in microbiology and its applications in medicine.
• Understanding microbiology is essential for health sciences.

Microbiology in a sentence

Perioperative

Definition: Relating to the period surrounding a surgical operation.

• The perioperative team prepared the patient for surgery.
• She learned about perioperative care in her nursing class.
• Effective perioperative management is crucial for patient safety.

Thrombosis

Definition: The formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel.

• Thrombosis can lead to serious health issues.
• He was warned about the risks of thrombosis.
• Understanding thrombosis is essential for cardiovascular health.

Thrombosis in a sentence

Visualization

Definition: The act of creating images or diagrams in the mind or on paper to understand information better.

• Visualization helps in understanding complex concepts.
• She used visualization techniques to prepare for her presentation.
• The teacher encouraged students to use visualization for math problems.

Visualization in a sentence

Wound Healing

Definition: The process of recovery after an injury occurs.

• Wound healing can take time and care.
• He studied wound healing in his biology class.
• Nutrition plays a key role in wound healing.

Cauterization

Definition: The process of burning a part of the body to stop bleeding or prevent infection.

• Cauterization is often done in surgeries.
• The doctor explained cauterization to the patient.
• She learned about cauterization in her nursing course.

Cauterization in a sentence