Workup Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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workup

[ˈwɜːrkʌp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical assessment

A workup is a series of medical tests and examinations carried out to determine the nature of a patient's condition. It typically involves collecting detailed medical history, performing physical examinations, and ordering laboratory tests. This process helps healthcare providers diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, and monitor the effectiveness of therapies. A comprehensive workup can be crucial for conditions that are not immediately evident and require deeper investigation.

Synonyms

assessment, evaluation, examination.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor ordered a complete workup to understand the symptoms.
  • After several tests, the workup revealed a rare condition.
  • During the workup, multiple specialists are often involved.
  • The patient's workup included blood tests and imaging studies.
Context #2 | Noun

research procedure

In research settings, a workup refers to the process of developing and refining ideas or concepts into a comprehensive plan or proposal. This may include literature reviews, methodological planning, and feasibility studies. The goal is to ensure a project is well-structured and addresses its objectives effectively before implementation.

Synonyms

development, planning, preparation.

Examples of usage

  • The research team conducted a workup to refine their project proposal.
  • A thorough workup led to a successful funding application.
  • The workup process involved several brainstorming sessions.
  • Before the experiment, a detailed workup was necessary.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Practice

  • A workup often involves multiple tests, including blood tests and imaging, to create a complete picture of a patient's health.
  • In emergencies, a quick workup can be crucial for diagnosing life-threatening conditions, allowing doctors to act swiftly.
  • The types of tests performed in a workup can vary widely based on symptoms, ranging from standard check-ups to specialized screenings.

Psychology

  • Workups can also be used in mental health assessments, where psychologists gather information to understand a patient's emotional state.
  • Completing a psychological workup often includes structured interviews and various assessments to pinpoint issues and recommend treatments.

Pop Culture

  • In medical dramas, characters often perform dramatic workups that lead to pivotal plot twists, showcasing the importance of thorough investigations.
  • The idea of a workup is sometimes humorously referenced in popular memes about going to the doctor and getting every test imaginable.

Education

  • In academia, a workup can refer to the process of gathering comprehensive data before presenting a research paper or thesis.
  • Many educational programs emphasize the importance of a thorough workup in case studies, encouraging students to explore every angle of a problem.

Origin of 'workup'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'workup' combines 'work' and 'up,' suggesting a thorough examination or activity that uncovers important information.
  • It became common in medical jargon in the early 20th century, evolving from broader uses to its current medical focus.

The term 'workup' combines the word 'work' with the suffix '-up', which indicates a process or degree of completion. The use of 'workup' in medical contexts dates back to the mid-20th century, reflecting a growing emphasis on systematic diagnostic procedures. Initially, it applied primarily to physical examinations and laboratory testing conducted to formulate a diagnosis. Over time, the usage expanded into other fields, including research and engineering, illustrating its adaptability in various professional domains. As healthcare and research became increasingly complex, the workup approach facilitated a methodical way to gather necessary information, ensuring thorough evaluations and informed decision-making. Today, 'workup' is recognized in both clinical and academic environments, symbolizing a structured methodology in tackling complex problems.