Glossary
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Immobilization
The state of preventing movement as a: quiet rest in bed for a prolonged period used in the treatment of a disease or b: to make a specific body part immovable (as by a cast or splint) to promote healing.
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Impotence
In men, it is an abnormal physical state in which a man is unable to sexually perform due to a failure to maintain an erection (also called erectile dysfunction).
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Incontinence
Inability to control the release of waste products from the body. Common types include fecal (bowel) and urinary (bladder) incontinence.
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Infection
Invasion by and growth of germs in the body that may cause injury.
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Inflammation
The body's response to injury to cells that can include redness, heat, pain, swelling and loss of function. This response shows that the body is attempting to fight and remove harmful agents (like germs) and damaged tissue.
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Interdisciplinary
Involving two or more academic, scientific, or artistic discipline.
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Intravenous
Into a vein
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Ipratropium Bromide
A drug used to treat obstructive lung diseases. It is inhaled through the mouth.
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Iron Deficiency
A nutritional deficiency caused by insufficient amounts of iron. In humans, iron is necessary for red blood cells to carry oxygen and for other body functions. Symptoms of iron deficiency can include fatigue, pallor (pale skin), irritability, weakness and brittle nails.
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Irradiation
A process in which an item or person is exposed to radiation. It can be used to treat cancer.