| A | B |
|---|
| apasia | language impairment; loss of ability to comprehend or speak normally |
| apnea | absence of respirations; temporary cessation of respirations |
| aquathermia pad | temperature-controlled unit that circulates warm liquied through a pad to provide dry heat |
| aromatherapy | use of natural scents and smells to promote health and well-being |
| aspirate | to remove by suction |
| aspiration | process of inhaling food, fluid, or a foreign subsrance into the respiratory tract |
| atheist | person who does not believe in any deity |
| audiometer | instrument used to test hearing and determine hearing loss |
| audiologist | individual specializing in diagnosis and treatment of hearing disorders |
| Ayer blade | wooden or plastic blade used to scrape cells from the cervix of the uterus; used for Pap tests |
| bed cradle | a device placed on a bed to keep the top bed linens from contacting the legs and feet |
| binders | devices applied to hold dressings i place, provide support, apply pressure or limit movement |
