Parameter

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Parameter (medicine)

A parameter in medicine refers to a specific measurable factor that can be used to define a particular physical or biological state or condition. Parameters are often used in clinical trials and research to assess the effectiveness of a treatment or intervention. They can also be used in routine medical practice to monitor a patient's health status and response to treatment.

Definition[edit | edit source]

In the context of medicine, a parameter is a variable that can be measured and evaluated. It can be a characteristic, a number, or a quantity that describes a specific aspect of a patient's health status. Parameters can be objective (measurable) or subjective (based on patient's perception).

Types of Parameters[edit | edit source]

There are several types of parameters used in medicine, including:

  • Vital signs: These are basic measurements of a patient's essential body functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and respiratory rate.
  • Laboratory values: These are measurements obtained from laboratory tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, and other diagnostic tests.
  • Clinical parameters: These are measurements obtained from a clinical examination, such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and skinfold thickness.
  • Patient-reported outcomes: These are measurements based on the patient's own perception of their health status, such as pain intensity, fatigue level, and quality of life.

Use in Clinical Trials[edit | edit source]

In clinical trials, parameters are used to assess the effectiveness of a treatment or intervention. They are often used as endpoints, which are the outcomes that are measured at the end of a study to determine whether the treatment is effective.

Use in Medical Practice[edit | edit source]

In routine medical practice, parameters are used to monitor a patient's health status and response to treatment. They can be used to track changes in a patient's condition over time, to assess the effectiveness of a treatment, and to detect any potential side effects or complications.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Parameter Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD