1. An investigation in which information is systematically collected but in which the experimental method is not used. 2. A comprehensive examination or group of examinations to screen for one or more findings. 3. A series of questions administered to a sample of individuals in a population. [O.Fr. surveeir, fr. Mediev.L. supervideo, fr. super, over, + video, to see]
- field s. the planned collection of data among noninstitutionalized persons in the general population.
- skeletal s. radiographic examination of all or selected parts of the skeleton, as for occult fractures, metastases, etc.
Medical dictionary. 2011.