Glossary of Site Terminology

P

• Pediatrics

  A branch of medicine dealing with the development, care, and diseases of children.

• Perianesthesia

  A branch of medicine dealing with pre- and post-operative anesthesia.

• PhD

  Doctor of Philosophy. This is typically a research-oriented degree awarded to nurses who have at least a Masters degree, and who do additional work on a given subject and complete a dissertation.

• Postdoctoral programs

  Academic study beyond the level of a Doctoral degree. Postdoctoral programs are usually research-based.

• Private School

  Private colleges and universities are independent educational institutions that are funded by tuition, fees, endowments, and other private sources, as opposed to government or public funding.

• Psychiatric Nursing

  A branch of medicine that deals with mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. A psychiatric nurse promotes general mental health; assists clients with self-care activities; provides patient counseling; performs case management; administers and monitors psychobiological treatment regimens; and teaches about health issues, including psychoeducation and crisis.

• Public School

  Public colleges and universities are funded by the state or local government, and are therefore usually less expensive than private schools.