診断 (shindan) refers to the process of identifying a disease or condition based on a patient's symptoms and medical history. It often involves various methods, including physical examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. The goal of 診断 is to determine the underlying cause of a patient's health issues to provide appropriate treatment. In the medical field, accurate 診断 is crucial for effective patient care. Healthcare professionals, such as 医師 (ishi, doctors) and 看護師 (kangoshi, nurses), work together to gather information and analyze results. A timely and correct 診断 can lead to better health outcomes and improved quality of life for patients.