Paramedic Practice Today Glossary of Terms

A grief stage in which the individual has come to terms with the reality of his or her (or a loved one's) imminent death.

The involvement in a repetitive behavior (gambling, substances, etc.). In physical addiction the individual has become dependent on an external substance and develops physical withdrawal symptoms if the substance is unavailable.

The involvement in repetitive behavior such as gambling or substance abuse.

The body's autonomic, sympathetic nervous system response to stimuli designed to prepare the individual to fight or flee.

A stage in the grieving process in which the individual is upset by the stated future loss of life.

A stage in the grieving process in which the individual is upset by the stated future loss of life.

A stage of the grieving process. The individual may attempt to “cut a deal” with a higher power to accomplish a specific goal or task.

Exhaustion to the point of not being able to perform one's job effectively.

A daily rhythmic activity cycle based on 24-hour intervals or events that occur at approximately 24-hour intervals, such as certain physiologic occurrences.

The 24-hour cycle that relates to work and rest time.

To wash with soap and water.

A common defense mechanism that presents with feelings of disbelief, such as “no, that can't be right” when a life-threatening or terminal diagnosis is received; one of the stages of the grief response.

A stage in the grieving process characterized by sorrow and lack of interest in the things that produce pleasure and other signs and symptoms seen in depression from other causes.

To clean with an agent that should kill many of, or most, surface organisms.

Stress that is perceived as negative; it may be seen as physical or mental pain or suffering.