Concept General Information

Concept General Information

• All concepts will have at least two (2) descriptions: one (1) FSN (Fully Specified Name) and one (1) PS (Preferred Synonym);
• The Fully Specified Name is always unique in the terminology, while other descriptions may not be unique;
• Additional synonyms may be added to concepts;
• The format of synonyms and addition of synonyms is often driven by the domain requirements;
• Note that all synonyms of Immunization concepts are unique. This is important to ensure patient safety.

Fully Specified Name (FSN)

• Is intended to be unambiguous and unique in SNOMED CT®;
• It is recommended that the FSN NOT be used at the user interface;
• US English spelling is used in Canada. e.g. milliliter instead of millilitre;
• Restrictions in punctuation may restrict how terms are described;
• Refer to the domain specific guidelines for specific guidance.  

Preferred Synonym (PS)

• The PS is intended to be used at the user interface; 
• The PS used is familiar to domain stakeholders;
• US English spelling is used.  e.g.: pediatric as opposed to paediatric
• Restrictions in punctuation may restrict how terms are described;
• Refer to the domain specific guidelines for specific guidance; 
• Restrictions in field length may require adjustment of wording;
• With the exception of Immunization, the PS is not always unique.

Other Synonym (OS)

• A concept may have one or more synonyms;
• Content developed in the Canadian Edition includes a synonym that is the FSN without the semantic tag.