Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) Practice Exam

What does the suffix "-scopy" refer to in medical terminology?

1. A visual examination

2. A surgical procedure

3. A type of medication

4. A diagnostic imaging technique

The correct answer is: A visual examination

In medical terminology, the suffix "-scopy" specifically denotes a procedure that involves a visual examination of internal structures or organs through the use of an instrument called a scope. This can include various types of procedures such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, and bronchoscopy, where the scope allows a healthcare provider to directly visualize and often assess the condition of the area being examined. This suffix is rooted in the Greek word "skopein," which means "to look" or "to examine." Therefore, when "-scopy" is used, it conveys the process of looking into or examining an area, typically for diagnostic purposes. The other options reflect different concepts in medical terminology. Surgical procedures involve the physical act of performing surgery, medication refers to substances used for treatment, and diagnostic imaging techniques involve methods like X-rays or MRIs rather than direct visual examination with a scope. Thus, the ideal definition aligns with the meaning conveyed by the suffix "-scopy."