Dictionary

Named signs

Signs and patterns named after the people who described them: Kussmaul, Homans, Chvostek and more.

Mallory-Weiss tearA tear in the lining where the esophagus meets the stomach.

Maslow hierarchy of needsA theory that ranks human needs in five levels, from basic body needs at the bottom to self-fulfillment at the top.

McBurney pointA spot on the lower right abdomen about one-third of the way from the front of the hip bone to the navel.

McRoberts maneuverPulling a laboring client's legs back sharply so the thighs press against the abdomen, to widen the pelvis during birth.

Montgomery tuberclesSmall raised bumps on the areola, the darker skin around the nipple.

moon faceA rounded, full, puffy face with fat padding in the cheeks.

Moro reflexA newborn reflex in which a sudden noise or loss of support makes the baby fling the arms out and then bring them back in.

Murphy signA sudden catch in breathing, from pain, when the examiner presses under the right ribs while the person breathes in deeply.