Foundation only
This module prepares you to enter an approved EMT course. It does not provide certification, course credit, local protocols, or authorization to perform EMS skills.
2
Learn the building blocks of medical terminology
Focus on decoding unfamiliar words instead of memorizing long lists without context.
PrefixAppears at the beginning and often describes amount, speed, location, or condition.
RootProvides the central meaning, often a body part or system.
SuffixAppears at the end and often describes a condition, process, or procedure.
| Word part | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| brady- | slow | bradycardia |
| tachy- | fast | tachypnea |
| hypo- | below or low | hypoglycemia |
| hyper- | above or high | hypertension |
| cardi/o | heart | cardiovascular |
| neur/o | nerve or nervous system | neurologic |
| -pnea | breathing | dyspnea |
| -emia | blood condition | hypoxemia |
Directional language to recognize
Anterior / posteriorSuperior / inferiorMedial / lateralProximal / distalRight / leftBilateral