Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What does the term "Ambulatory" mean?

1. Movable

2. Fixed

3. Temporary

4. Immortal

The correct answer is: Movable

The term "ambulatory" refers to the capability of movement or the ability to walk. It is commonly used in medical contexts to describe patients who are able to walk and therefore can be treated outside of a hospital setting, such as in an outpatient facility. This term encompasses the concept of being movable, as it indicates a degree of independence and the ability to navigate without assistance. In various medical and healthcare scenarios, understanding whether a patient is ambulatory can influence the type of care they receive, as those who are ambulatory may not require intensive support or monitoring that is needed for those who are immobile or confined to a bed. Thus, "movable" aptly captures the essence of ambulatory status in patient care.