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Fundamentals of Nursing

Key Terms

Fundamentals of NursingKey Terms
dentures
artificial teeth not permanently implanted
gingivitis
inflammation of the gums or gingivae
halitosis
persistent foul-smelling or bad breath
hygiene
the measures or practices conducive to preserving health and preventing disease, particularly through cleanliness
medical asepsis
techniques and procedures used to decrease the potential for the spread of microorganisms and infection
oral hygiene
care of the oral cavity
otitis externa
an infection or inflammation of the external ear canal, usually caused by water exposure or bacterial/fungal infections
pediculosis
lice infestation
periodontitis
marked inflammation of the gums that also involves degeneration of the dental bone and tissues
personal hygiene
self-care measures one performs to preserve their own health
pinworm
an intestinal worm that usually spreads when an infected individual scratches the anal area
ringworm
a fungal infection of the skin or scalp
scabies
a contagious skin infestation caused by a burrowing mite accompanied by extreme itching
sebum
an oily secretion of the sebaceous gland
skin breakdown
the damage or injury that occurs to the skin and underlying tissue due to prolonged pressure, friction, shear, or moisture
tooth decay
visible cavities or holes in the outer sruface of a tooth or enamel
trachoma
a bacterial infection of the eyes
urinary tract infection (UTI)
a bacterial infection affecting any part of the urinary system
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