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Common Terms
The following table contains common terms, slang and jargon that you may hear daily in the
unit. Medical staff get so used to using this ‘code language’ that they sometimes forget to
translate it for you. If you hear a term you don’t know, ask the person to explain it to you. If
that is not practical, look it up in this table - it will give an idea of what is being talked about.
Remember that different spinal units may use different terms to describe similar things. If
the terms do differ, write down or have someone else write down the accepted version next
to the ones listed here.
TERM FULL NAME EXPLANATION
‘Acute’
An Acute Patient
All new patients undergoing the first stage
of their recovery are referred to as ‘acute’
patients
‘BIRD’ Positive Pressure Machine A machine that fills your lungs with air to
full capacity to give them a good stretch out
‘Bloods’ Blood Analysis Refers to the process, or the results of a
blood test
BP Blood Pressure Your blood pressure is measured regularly
and monitored
BWO Bladder Wash Out Refer to Bladder Chapter
COC Change of Catheter Refer to Bladder Chapter
‘Commode’ A Commode Chair A portable toilet chair often used in the
shower as well
CT Scan
Computer Tomography
Scan
Also known as a CAT Scan, these are used
to look at specific organs in your body
‘Cysto’ Cystometry An examination of your bladder function
‘Exam’ Examination Procedures that look for a specific signs or
symptoms are often called ‘exams’
FBC Fluid Balance Chart A way to measure your fluid intake and
output
GP
ICU
General Practitioner
Intensive Care Unit
Doctors who work in private practice
outside of a hospital are known as General
Practitioners, or GP’s
A hospital ward that specialises in caring
for people immediately after an injury
36 © New Zealand Spinal Trust, 2014