What it means
A direction word. On a limb, proximal means nearer the trunk: the elbow is proximal to the wrist. In the gut or a tube, it means nearer the start. The opposite is distal, farther from the center or the point of attachment.
For the nurse
Check circulation distal to (below) a cast, IV site or injury, and describe wound and catheter locations with these words.
Remember it
Proximal is in proximity: close.
At a glance
| Spanish | proximal |
|---|---|
| Also written | proximally |