Anatomy and Physiology: Chapter 1 - Orientation

Introduction

• Purpose: Introduces general terms and principles for the course.
• Importance: Knowledge in this field is crucial for exams and a career in nursing.

Definitions

• Anatomy: Study of the human body structure and location.
• Physiology: Study of the human body's functions.

Relationship Between Anatomy and Physiology

• Known as the "Dogma": Structure dictates function.

Types of Anatomy

• Systemic Anatomy: Studies organ systems.
• Regional Anatomy: Studies different body regions.
• Surface Anatomy: Studies surface markings.
• Gross Anatomy: Studies visible structures.
• Microscopic Anatomy: Studies structures requiring a microscope.
  • Histology: Study of tissues.
  • Cytology: Study of cells.

Types of Physiology

• Neurophysiology: Study of the brain and nervous system.
• Cardiovascular Physiology: Study of the heart and blood vessels.

Characteristics of Life

1. Composed of cells.
2. Metabolize (anabolic and catabolic processes).
3. Excrete waste.
4. Growth (cell size or number).
5. Respond to stimuli.
6. Movement.
7. Reproduction (mitosis and meiosis).

Levels of Structural Organization

1. Chemical Level: Atoms and molecules.
2. Cellular Level: Formation of cells.
3. Tissue Level: Cells form tissues.
4. Organ Level: Tissues form organs.
5. Organ System: Organs working together.
6. Organism: All systems form a functioning organism.

Anatomical Position

• Body standing upright, arms at sides, palms facing forward.
• Directional Terms:
  • Anterior: Front of the body.
  • Posterior: Back of the body.
  • Superior (Cranial): Towards the head.
  • Inferior: Away from the head.
  • Proximal: Closer to the point of origin.
  • Distal: Farther from the point of origin.
  • Medial: Closer to midline.
  • Lateral: Farther from midline.
  • Superficial: Closer to surface.
  • Deep: Farther from surface.

Body Regions

• Axial Region: Head, neck, trunk.
• Appendicular Region: Limbs.

Planes of Section

• Sagittal Plane: Divides body into left/right.
  • Midsagittal: Equal halves.
  • Parasagittal: Unequal sections.
• Frontal (Coronal) Plane: Divides body into anterior/posterior.
• Transverse Plane: Divides body into superior/inferior.
• Oblique Plane: Angled division.

Body Cavities

• Dorsal Cavity: Cranial and spinal cavity.
• Ventral Cavity: Thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities separated by the diaphragm.
  • Thoracic Cavity: Includes pleural cavities, mediastinum, pericardial cavity.
  • Abdominopelvic Cavity: Abdominal and pelvic cavities.

Serous Membranes

• Function: Produce serous fluid to reduce friction.
• Types:
  • Pleural Membrane: Surrounds lungs.
  • Pericardial Membrane: Surrounds heart.
  • Peritoneal Membrane: Surrounds abdominal organs.

Medical Imaging

• X-rays: Use ionized radiation.
• CT Scans: Show transverse views, use ionized radiation.
• MRI: Uses magnetic radiation for detailed images.

Homeostasis

• Definition: Maintenance of internal environment.
• Feedback Loops:
  • Negative Feedback: Reduces change, restores set point.
  • Positive Feedback: Increases change, used in situations like childbirth.

Cell Communication

• Electrical and Chemical Signals: Maintain homeostasis.

Conclusion

• Emphasized importance of homeostasis and structure-function relationship throughout anatomy and physiology.