Controlled drugs = Preparations subject to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and Misuse of Drugs Regulations 1985 which regulate the prescribing and dispensing of psychoactive drugs.

Corticosteroids = Hormones produced by the adrenal cortex or their synthetic substitutes. They have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

COSHH = The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994.

Cytotoxic drugs = Cell-destroying drugs used in the treatment of neoplasia.

Ergonomics = The design of the workplace and equipment to suit individual people.

Haemorrhage = Bleeding.

Micro-organism = An organism that is too small to be seen with the naked eye (including viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi and algae).

Neoplasia = Abnormal cell production; cancer.

Pathogen = A disease causing micro-organism.

Prostaglandins = Hormone substances that are active in many ways, having cardiac, gastric and respiratory effects. They cause uterine contractions and are sometimes used for the induction of abortion, and should therefore NEVER be handled by pregnant women.

RIDDOR = The Reporting of Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1980.

SOPs = Standard operating procedures; clear concise, written instructions that are tailored to the work protocols of each individual practice.

Toxoplasmosis = A zoonotic disease caused by toxoplasma gondii (a coccidial parasite of the cat). This may result in diverse neurological signs and cysts and can lead to fetal abnormalities.

Zoonosis = A disease carried by animals which is transmissible to humans.