Word parts
What it means
Its opposite is bilateral, both sides. Nurses note whether findings are unilateral or bilateral: unilateral leg swelling, unilateral weakness, a unilateral dilated pupil. A finding on one side only is often more worrying than the same finding on both sides.
For the nurse
Always compare one side of the body with the other, and report a new one-sided change.
At a glance
| Spanish | unilateral |
|---|---|
| Also written | unilaterally |
Related terms
deep vein thrombosis
A blood clot in a deep vein, most often in the leg or pelvis.
neglect
Failure to give a child or dependent adult the food, shelter, care, safety or medical help they need.