Word parts
What it means
A word nurses use for a body function that is slower or weaker than expected. Hypoactive bowel sounds are fewer and quieter than normal; hypoactive reflexes are weak; a client with hypoactive delirium is quiet, sleepy and withdrawn rather than agitated. The opposite is hyperactive. The word part hypo-HY-pohA word beginning that means under, below or less than normal.Full entry means below normal.
In a chart
"Abdomen soft, bowel sounds hypoactive in all four quadrants."
Related terms
hypo-
A word beginning that means under, below or less than normal.
delirium
A sudden state of confusion and poor attention that comes and goes over hours or days.
auscultation
Listening to the sounds inside the body, usually with a stethoscope.