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extradural hemorrhage

bleeding that occurs outside the dura mater, the outermost of the three protective membranes (meninges) that cover the brain. It usually involves a ruptured artery resulting from a severe head injury, such as a skull fracture. There may be a brief lucid period after the injury, then severe headaches, dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness, and finally death if the hemorrhage is not controlled. Also called epidural hemorrhage.

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Psychology term of the day

January 19th 2025

pretest

pretest

1. n. an initial assessment designed to measure existing characteristics (e.g., knowledge, ability) before some intervention, condition, manipulation, or treatment is introduced. Pretests often are given to research participants before they take part in a study. For example, in a study examining whether training helps math performance, participants might be administered a short math test to assess their original knowledge prior to undergoing the training. See also posttest.

2. n. a test administered before the main study to ensure that participants understand the instructions and procedures. See pilot study; practice trial.

3. vb. to administer a pretest.