AIIMS Raipur NO - 2019 (Shift-2)
Computer and Nursing Information
Easy

A form of computer data storage that stores data and machine code and can be searched and changed in any order?

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur NO - 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

  • Random Access Memory (RAM) is the primary memory used by computers to store data and machine code that are actively being used.
  • The term 'random access' specifically means that any piece of data can be accessed directly and in any order, without needing to go through preceding data.
  • It is a volatile memory, meaning its contents are lost when the computer is powered off.
  • This allows for fast read and write operations, which is essential for the performance of the system's processor.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option A: Remote memory is not a type of local data storage on a computer. It refers to accessing memory on another device over a network, which involves significant latency compared to local RAM.
  • Option C: Read-Only Memory (ROM) cannot be changed, which contradicts a key part of the question. It is designed to permanently store firmware and boot instructions.
  • Option D: While Flash Memory is a read/write storage, RAM is the specific type of memory known for its high-speed 'random access' for currently executing programs. Flash memory is primarily used for long-term, non-volatile storage.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Computer Memory as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • Understanding basic computer components like RAM is crucial for nurses in today's technology-driven healthcare environment. Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, medical devices, and telehealth platforms all rely on computers to function.
  • A computer with insufficient RAM will run slowly, which can delay access to critical patient information, impacting patient care and safety.
  • What if a nurse is using a bedside computer to document medication administration and the system is lagging or crashing? This could be due to insufficient RAM to handle the EHR software, potentially leading to documentation errors or delays. Recognizing this as a technical issue is the first step to resolving it.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, break down the question to identify the key requirements for the data storage type. The critical phrases are 'stores data and machine code' and 'can be searched and changed in any order'.
  • The phrase 'in any order' is a strong clue pointing towards 'random access'.
  • Evaluate each option against these requirements.
  • Option A, 'Remote memory,' is about location (networked) rather than the intrinsic properties of the memory itself.
  • Option C, 'Read only memory,' is immediately disqualified by the 'cannot be changed' characteristic.
  • Option D, 'Flash memory,' is a possibility, but RAM is the primary memory type defined by its high-speed random access for active processes.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Types of Computer Memory
  • Stem keywords: computer data storage, stores data, machine code, searched, changed, any order
  • Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
  • Negative lead-in flag: false

Question ID

QTdt69m2QZ5G2qZxptq21C

Reference Book

E6 Essentials of Educational Technology Nursing EducationL Gopichandran C Kanniammal (pp 39-344 of 355) p. 201-203

E6 Kaplan Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry-2022 (pp 1-3768 of 3768) p. 3236-3238

Practise the full AIIMS Raipur NO - 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.

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