device /divīs″/ [OFr, deviser, to divide] , an item other than a drug that has application in health care. The term is sometimes restricted by federal governments to items used directly by, on, or in the patient. Devices include orthopedic appliances, crutches, artificial heart valves, pacemakers, prostheses, wheelchairs, cervical collars, hearing aids, and eyeglasses. See also medical device.
