algorithm

Introduction

A step-by-step method for solving a problem generally encoded in software.

Clinical significance

• in health care decision-making, an algorithm is a defined & prescribed sequential process whereby clinical & diagnostic findings at a particular point in the process determine the next diagnostic, clinical, or therapeutic decision or action to be made or taken

More specific terms

• ACLS algorithm for suspected stroke
• algorithm for management of GI bleed

Additional terms

• software; computer program; electronic application