Question

Using knowledge of positional and directional prefixes and terms the medical assistant should identify that the term "contralateral" has which of the following meanings?

1) Same side
2) Opposite side
3) Above
4) D. Below

Answer 1

The term 'contralateral' means located on the opposite side of the body, which is crucial in medical terminology for precise and unambiguous communication.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term “contralateral” refers to a position on the opposite side of the body. In medical and anatomical terminology, this prefix is part of a system that enables healthcare professionals to describe the location of body parts with precision, reducing ambiguity and increasing clarity. The term “contralateral” is often used in clinical settings to describe symptoms, treatment effects, or anatomical features that are present on the opposite side from another point of reference. For example, if a person has a stroke that affects the right side of the brain, this might lead to contralateral effects, such as weakness or loss of sensation on the left side of the body.