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Fomite

Here’s a handy word: fomite. It means “an inanimate object that can transmit an infectious agent” like a doorknob handle or a comb infested with head lice. It also has a picturesque Latin origin. Martha explains, and shares a...

GTTS

In medical terminology, the abbreviation GTTS means “drops” or “drips.” But why? This is part of a complete episode.

HAC

HAC  n.— «The apparel is one of many new tools medical professionals are adding to their arsenal for the fight against hospital-acquired conditions. HACs, as they are called, are injuries or ailments patients receive after admission...

wastebasket diagnosis

wastebasket diagnosis  n.— «They think of fibromyalgia as a label given to patients with many painful physical complaints, but normal test results. This is commonly called a “wastebasket diagnosis” used when all the clearly definable...

Harvard death

Harvard death n. a death which occurs despite all symptoms being treated successfully or all medical test results appearing normal. Editorial Note: This term is often explained to mean “the operation was successful but the patient died.”...