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Have you ever wondered about the tools and equipment used in medical settings? Learning English vocabulary for medical supplies and equipment can help us understand the important items that doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals use to care for patients and keep them healthy. Words like ‘stethoscope,’ ‘bandage,’ ‘thermometer,’ and ‘syringe’ can help us communicate our needs, describe symptoms, and understand medical conversations. By learning these words, we can become more familiar with medical settings and better advocate for our own health. Are you ready to explore the world of medical supplies and equipment?
Diagnostic Equipment
1. Stethoscope (noun) /ˈstɛθəˌskoʊp/: A medical instrument used by healthcare professionals to listen to the sounds of a patient’s heart, lungs, or other internal organs.
Example: The doctor used a stethoscope to check my heart rate during my annual checkup.
2. Blood pressure cuff (noun) /blʌd ˈprɛʃər kʌf/: A device wrapped around a patient’s arm or leg that measures blood pressure by inflating and deflating.
Example: The nurse put a blood pressure cuff on my arm to check my blood pressure during my visit.
3. Thermometer (noun) /θərˈmɒmɪtər/: An instrument used to measure body temperature, either orally, under the arm, or in the ear.
Example: The nurse used a digital thermometer to check if I had a fever when I felt unwell.
4. Otoscope (noun) /ˈoʊtəˌskoʊp/: A medical device used by healthcare professionals to examine the inside of a patient’s ears by shining a light and magnifying the view.
Example: The doctor used an otoscope to check for any signs of an ear infection when I complained of ear pain.
5. Ophthalmoscope (noun) /ɒfˈθælməˌskoʊp/: A medical instrument used by healthcare professionals to examine the inside of a patient’s eyes, including the retina and optic nerve.
Example: During my eye exam, the optometrist used an ophthalmoscope to check the health of my retina.
6. Sphygmomanometer (noun) /ˌsfɪɡmoʊməˈnɒmɪtər/: A medical instrument used to measure blood pressure, typically consisting of a blood pressure cuff and a gauge.
Example: The nurse used a sphygmomanometer to ensure my blood pressure was within a healthy range.
7. Pulse oximeter (noun) /pʌls ɒkˈsɪmɪtər/: A small medical device that clips onto a patient’s fingertip to measure their blood oxygen saturation level and pulse rate.
Example: The doctor placed a pulse oximeter on my finger to check my oxygen levels during my checkup.
8. Glucometer (noun) /ɡluːˈkɒmɪtər/: A portable device used to measure the glucose (sugar) levels in a person’s blood, often used by individuals with diabetes.
Example: My grandmother uses a glucometer to monitor her blood sugar levels every day.
9. EKG machine (noun) /ˈiːˌkeɪˈʤi məˈʃin/: A medical device that records the electrical activity of the heart, used to detect and diagnose heart problems.
Example: The doctor hooked me up to an EKG machine to evaluate my heart rhythm during my annual physical.
10. X-ray machine (noun) /ˈɛksˌreɪ məˈʃin/: A medical device that uses X-ray radiation to create images of the inside of a patient’s body, such as bones and organs, to diagnose injuries or illnesses.
Example: After I fell and hurt my arm, the doctor used an X-ray machine to check for any broken bones.
Surgical Instruments
1. Scalpel (noun) /ˈskælpəl/: A small, sharp knife used by healthcare professionals, particularly surgeons, to make precise incisions during medical procedures.
Example: The surgeon used a scalpel to make a small incision during my appendix removal surgery.
2. Forceps (noun) /ˈfɔrˌsɛps/: A medical instrument resembling a pair of tongs, used by healthcare professionals to grasp and hold objects or tissues during surgery or other procedures.
Example: The dentist used forceps to extract my wisdom tooth when it became impacted.
3. Surgical scissors (noun) /ˈsɜrʤɪkəl ˈsɪzərz/: A type of scissors specifically designed for cutting tissues during surgery, often with sharp, curved, or angled blades.
Example: The surgeon used surgical scissors to carefully trim away damaged tissue during the operation.
4. Retractor (noun) /rɪˈtræktər/: A medical instrument used by healthcare professionals to hold back or separate tissues or organs during surgery, providing better visibility and access to the surgical site.
Example: The surgeon used a retractor to expose the area of my abdomen that needed repair during the operation.
5. Hemostat (noun) /ˈhiːməˌstæt/: A medical instrument used to clamp blood vessels or tissues to control bleeding during surgery or other procedures.
Example: The surgeon used a hemostat to prevent excessive bleeding while repairing my injured leg.
6. Needle holder (noun) /ˈnidəl ˈhoʊldər/: A medical instrument used by healthcare professionals to securely grip a suture needle during suturing or stitching of tissues.
Example: The doctor used a needle holder to keep the suture needle steady while stitching up my wound.
7. Suture needle (noun) /ˈsuːtʃər ˈnidəl/: A small, curved needle with a sharp point, used by healthcare professionals to sew together tissues during surgery or wound closure.
Example: The surgeon used a suture needle to close the incision after successfully completing the operation.
8. Surgical drill (noun) /ˈsɜrʤɪkəl drɪl/: A medical instrument used by healthcare professionals, particularly surgeons, to create holes or openings in bones or other hard tissues during surgery.
Example: The orthopedic surgeon used a surgical drill to create a hole in my bone to insert a screw for fracture repair.
9. Trocar (noun) /ˈtroʊkɑr/: A sharp, pointed medical instrument used by healthcare professionals to puncture the body cavity and create an access point for other instruments during minimally invasive surgeries.
Example: The surgeon used a trocar to insert a laparoscope into my abdomen during a minimally invasive gallbladder removal.
10. Surgical stapler (noun) /ˈsɜrʤɪkəl ˈsteɪplər/: A medical device used by healthcare professionals to close wounds or join tissues together during surgery, using small metal staples instead of sutures.
Example: The surgeon used a surgical stapler to close my incision quickly and securely after the procedure.
Medical Devices
1. Wheelchair (noun) /ˈwilˌʧer/: A chair with wheels, designed to provide mobility for individuals who have difficulty walking due to injury, illness, or disability.
Example: After breaking her leg, Jane used a wheelchair to move around her home while she recovered.
2. Walker (noun) /ˈwɔkər/: A supportive frame with four legs, used by individuals who need assistance with balance and stability while walking.
Example: My grandfather used a walker to help him maintain his balance and independence after his hip surgery.
3. Crutches (noun) /krʌtʃɪz/: A pair of support devices, usually made from metal or wood, designed to be held under the arms and used to assist with walking when one leg is injured or disabled.
Example: When John sprained his ankle, he used crutches to help him walk without putting weight on his injured foot.
4. Cane (noun) /keɪn/: A long, slender stick with a curved or straight handle, used by individuals to provide support and balance while walking.
Example: My grandmother used a cane to steady herself as she walked through the park.
5. Hospital bed (noun) /ˈhɒspɪtl bɛd/: A specialized bed designed for use in medical facilities, often adjustable in height and position to provide comfort and support to patients.
Example: The nurse adjusted the hospital bed to help the patient sit up more comfortably.
6. Ventilator (noun) /ˈvɛntɪˌleɪtər/: A medical device that helps patients breathe by delivering oxygen to their lungs and removing carbon dioxide when they are unable to breathe on their own.
Example: The patient in the intensive care unit was placed on a ventilator to support their breathing.
7. Nebulizer (noun) /ˈnɛbjəˌlaɪzər/: A medical device that turns liquid medication into a fine mist, allowing it to be inhaled into the lungs for the treatment of respiratory conditions.
Example: Sarah used a nebulizer to administer her asthma medication when she experienced difficulty breathing.
8. Dialysis machine (noun) /daɪˈæləsɪs məˈʃin/: A medical device that filters and cleans a patient’s blood when their kidneys are not functioning properly, effectively performing the role of the kidneys.
Example: My uncle visits the clinic three times a week to use a dialysis machine due to his kidney failure.
9. Infusion pump (noun) /ɪnˈfjuzən pʌmp/: A medical device that delivers fluids, such as nutrients or medications, into a patient’s body in controlled amounts over a specified period of time.
Example: The nurse set up an infusion pump to administer antibiotics to the patient throughout the night.
10. Defibrillator (noun) /dɪˈfɪbrɪˌleɪtər/: A medical device that delivers an electric shock to the heart in order to restore a normal heartbeat during a cardiac arrest or other life-threatening heart conditions.
Example: The paramedics used a defibrillator to revive the patient who had collapsed from a sudden cardiac arrest.
Laboratory Equipment
1. Microscope (noun) /ˈmaɪkrəˌskoʊp/: An instrument used to magnify and examine objects that are too small to be visible with the naked eye, often used in scientific research and medical laboratories.
Example: The scientist used a microscope to observe the bacteria in the water sample.
2. Centrifuge (noun) /ˈsɛntrɪˌfjʊdʒ/: A laboratory device that spins samples at high speeds to separate substances of different densities or to separate particles from a liquid.
Example: The lab technician placed the blood samples in a centrifuge to separate the plasma from the red blood cells.
3. Test tubes (noun) /tɛst tubz/: Small, cylindrical glass or plastic containers used for holding, mixing, or heating small amounts of liquids in scientific experiments.
Example: The chemist used test tubes to mix different chemicals and observe their reactions.
4. Pipettes (noun) /pɪˈpɛts/: Laboratory instruments used to transfer precise amounts of liquid from one container to another, commonly used in scientific research and medical laboratories.
Example: The researcher used pipettes to add small amounts of the reactants to the test tubes for the experiment.
5. Petri dish (noun) /ˈpiːtri dɪʃ/: A shallow, circular glass or plastic dish with a lid, used for growing bacteria or other microorganisms for laboratory observation and testing.
Example: The microbiologist placed a sample of the bacteria in a Petri dish to study its growth and characteristics.
6. Bunsen burner (noun) /ˈbʌnsən ˈbɜrnər/: A laboratory device that produces a single open gas flame, used for heating, sterilization, and combustion in scientific experiments.
Example: The lab assistant used a Bunsen burner to heat the test tube containing a chemical solution.
7. Incubator (noun) /ˈɪnkjʊˌbeɪtər/: A device that maintains a controlled environment, such as temperature and humidity, used for growing bacteria, hatching eggs, or cultivating cells in a laboratory setting.
Example: The scientist placed the Petri dishes containing bacterial cultures in an incubator to promote their growth.
8. pH meter (noun) /piːˈeɪʧ ˈmiːtər/: An electronic device used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, expressed on a scale from 0 to 14.
Example: The chemist used a pH meter to determine the acidity of the water sample collected from the river.
9. Spectrophotometer (noun) /ˌspektroʊfəˈtɒmɪtər/: An instrument used to measure the intensity of light absorbed or transmitted by a substance, providing information about the substance’s concentration, purity, or molecular structure.
Example: The researcher used a spectrophotometer to analyze the light absorption of the chemical solution and determine its concentration.
10. Autoclave (noun) /ˈɔtəˌkleɪv/: A device that uses high-pressure steam to sterilize equipment and other objects, commonly used in laboratories, hospitals, and other settings where maintaining a sterile environment is critical.
Example: The lab technician placed the used glassware in the autoclave to sterilize it before the next experiment.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
1. Gloves (noun) /ɡlʌvz/: Protective coverings worn on hands to prevent the spread of germs, protect against harmful substances, or provide a barrier during medical procedures.
Example: The nurse put on sterile gloves before administering the injection to maintain a clean environment.
2. Surgical mask (noun) /ˈsɜrdʒɪkəl mæsk/: A disposable face covering used by healthcare professionals and the general public to protect against the spread of germs, particularly during medical procedures or in settings where infection control is necessary.
Example: The doctor wore a surgical mask while performing the operation to reduce the risk of infection.
3. N95 respirator (noun) /ˈɛnˌnaɪnˈfaɪv ˌrɛspəˌreɪtər/: A type of face mask that filters at least 95% of airborne particles, providing a higher level of protection against viruses and bacteria compared to surgical masks.
Example: During the pandemic, healthcare workers wore N95 respirators to protect themselves from the virus while treating patients.
4. Gown (noun) /ɡaʊn/: A long, loose-fitting garment worn by healthcare professionals to protect their clothing and skin from contamination during medical procedures or while working in a sterile environment.
Example: The surgeon put on a sterile gown before entering the operating room to prevent any possible contamination.
5. Face shield (noun) /feɪs ʃild/: A clear, plastic barrier worn over the face to protect the eyes, nose, and mouth from splashes, sprays, or droplets containing infectious materials.
Example: The dentist wore a face shield while performing a tooth extraction to protect herself from any potential splatter.
6. Safety goggles (noun) /ˈseɪfti ˈɡɒɡəlz/: Protective eyewear that shields the eyes from dust, debris, chemicals, or other hazards, commonly used in medical, laboratory, and industrial settings.
Example: The laboratory technician wore safety goggles while handling chemicals to prevent any accidental splashes from reaching his eyes.
7. Shoe covers (noun) /ʃuː ˈkʌvərz/: Disposable coverings worn over shoes to prevent the spread of germs or contaminants, often used in healthcare and laboratory settings.
Example: The hospital staff wore shoe covers to maintain a clean and sterile environment in the operating room.
8. Hairnet (noun) /ˈherˌnɛt/: A close-fitting, mesh-like cap worn over the hair to prevent loose strands from falling into a sterile or clean environment, commonly used in healthcare, laboratory, and food service settings.
Example: The nurse put on a hairnet before entering the patient’s room to minimize the risk of contamination.
9. Disposable apron (noun) /dɪˈspoʊzəbəl ˈeɪprən/: A single-use, protective garment worn over clothing to protect against spills, splashes, or contamination, often used in healthcare and laboratory environments.
Example: The lab technician wore a disposable apron while working with potentially hazardous materials to protect his clothing.
10. Hand sanitizer (noun) /hænd ˈsænɪˌtaɪzər/: A liquid, gel, or foam substance used to kill germs and bacteria on the hands when soap and water are not available, often containing alcohol as an active ingredient.
Example: After visiting her patient, the nurse used hand sanitizer to clean her hands and prevent the spread of germs.
Congratulations on learning English vocabulary for medical supplies and equipment! Now you have the words to understand and talk about the tools and items used in healthcare settings. Whether it’s a simple bandage or a complex surgical instrument, each item plays a vital role in keeping people healthy and providing medical care. By learning these words, you can communicate your needs, understand medical instructions, and participate in conversations about health. Stay curious, keep learning, and empower yourself with knowledge about medical supplies and equipment.
