GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsReading ComprehensionMedium
A medical professional is reading a patient's chart. The chart notes a history of 'dyspnea on exertion' and 'orthopnea.' Based on common medical terminology, what can the medical professional most reasonably infer about the patient's condition?
- AThe patient experiences difficulty swallowing and frequent heartburn.
- BThe patient experiences breathing difficulties, especially with activity and when lying down.
- CThe patient has vision problems and frequent headaches.
- DThe patient has chronic pain in their joints and muscles.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The patient experiences breathing difficulties, especially with activity and when lying down.
'Dyspnea' means difficulty breathing, and 'on exertion' specifies it occurs with activity. 'Orthopnea' specifically refers to shortness of breath that occurs when lying flat, often relieved by sitting or standing. Both terms point to breathing difficulties.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. These terms relate to gastrointestinal issues, not respiratory. (Incorrect)
- C. These terms relate to neurological or ocular issues, not respiratory. (Incorrect)
- D. These terms relate to musculoskeletal issues, not respiratory. (Incorrect)
Medical Terminology Inference
Using knowledge of common medical prefixes, suffixes, and root words, along with contextual clues, to deduce the meaning of unfamiliar medical terms or infer aspects of a patient's condition.
- Many terms are derived from Greek or Latin.
- Prefixes indicate location, time, or number.
- Suffixes indicate procedure, condition, or disease.
Memory trick: MedTerms: Many tiny parts make a big meaning.