MeSH

The act of regarding attentively and studying facts and occurrences, gathering data through analyzing, measuring, and drawing conclusions, with the purpose of applying the observed information to theoretical assumptions. Observation as a scientific method in the acquisition of knowledge began in classical antiquity; in modern science and medicine its greatest application is facilitated by modern technology. Observation is one of the components of the research process.

Year introduced: 1997

A vocabulary database of universal identifiers for laboratory and clinical test results. Its purpose is to facilitate the exchange and pooling of results for clinical care, outcomes management, and research. It is produced by the Regenstrief Institute. (LOINC and RELMA [Internet]. Indianapolis: The Regenstrief Institute; c1995-2001 [cited 2002 Apr 2]. Available from http://www.regenstrief.org/loinc)

Year introduced: 2003

A hospital unit that serves as a dedicated observation area for emergency room patients when a decision to admit or not is unclear. Also known as clinical decision units or short-stay observation units.

Year introduced: 2019

A wide range of formal and informal techniques used to document behavior.

Year introduced: 2016

Works about clinical studies in which participants may receive diagnostic, therapeutic, or other types of interventions, but the investigator does not assign participants to specific interventions (as in an interventional study).

Year introduced: 2014

A work that reports on the results of a clinical study in which participants may receive diagnostic, therapeutic, or other types of interventions, but the investigator does not assign participants to specific interventions (as in an interventional study).

Year introduced: 2014

Reports on studies of the results of a clinical study in which animal subjects may receive diagnostic, therapeutic, or other types of interventions, where the investigator does not assign participants to specific interventions.

Year introduced: 2019