Structural Organization of the Body and Organ Systems

Structural Organization of the Body
Objective

  • Understand the structural organization of the body, including cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems, enabling a foundational knowledge of anatomy and physiology.

  • Understand the roles of the first responder in assessing and addressing injuries or illnesses related to each level of structural organization.

Tissues

  • Composed of cells grouped by size, shape, and function to perform specific tasks within the body.

    • Epithelial: Covers outside and lines the inside of the body, providing protection, absorption, and secretion.

    • Skin: a primary example, providing a protective barrier against external elements.

    • Membrane: two thin layers of tissue that form together; cells may secrete a fluid, such as serous or mucous membranes, to reduce friction or trap pathogens.

    • Connective: Supports and connects organs and tissue, providing structure and cohesion.

    • Adipose: stores fat cells, providing insulation and energy reserve.

    • Cartilage: firm, flexible support of the embryonic skeleton and part of the adult skeleton, found in joints and respiratory structures.

    • Tendons: white bands of connective tissue attaching skeletal muscle to bone, facilitating movement.

    • Ligaments: strong, flexible bands of connective tissue that hold bones firmly together at the joints, providing stability.

    • Muscle: Contracts and moves a body part, enabling locomotion, posture, and internal organ function.

    • Cardiac: striated, involuntary; contracts the heart to pump blood throughout the body.

    • Skeletal: striated, voluntary; attached to the skeleton, allowing for conscious movement.

    • Smooth: nonstriated, involuntary; provides movement in various body systems, such as digestion and blood vessel constriction.

    • Nervous:Reacts to stimulation and conducts an impulse, enabling communication and coordination within the body.

    • Neurons: transmit electrical signals throughout the body.

    • Glial Cells: support and protect neurons.

Organ Systems

  • Skeletal System: Provides support, protection, and movement, forming the body's framework.

    • Examples: Skull (protects the brain), Ribs (protect the thoracic cavity, including heart and lungs), Pelvis, Humerus, Femur.

  • Muscular System: Provides support, protection, movement, and heat, enabling posture and locomotion.

    • Examples: Diaphragm (aids in breathing), Pectoralis Major, Gluteus Maximus.

  • Circulatory System: Pumps blood and transports oxygen, nutrients, and hormones throughout the body.

    • Examples: Blood, Arteries, Veins, Heart.

    • Blood pressure: BP=systolic/diastolicBP = systolic/diastolic

  • Lymphatic System: Stimulates immune response and produces lymphocytes, defending the body against infection and disease.

    • Examples: Spleen, Tonsils, Thymus Gland.

  • Respiratory System: Allows for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, essential for cellular respiration.

    • Examples: Lungs, Diaphragm, Alveoli, Larynx, Pharynx.

  • Digestive System: Digests food and absorbs nutrients, providing energy for the body.

    • Examples: Esophagus, Stomach, Liver, Large Intestine, Small Intestine.

  • Integumentary System: Protects, regulates body temperature, and provides sensation, acting as a barrier against the external environment.

    • Examples: Skin, Hair, Sweat Glands.

  • Nervous System: Processes information, enabling rapid communication and control throughout the body.

    • Examples: Brain, Spinal Cord.

    • Central Nervous System: Brain and Spinal Cord

    • Peripheral Nervous System: Nerves throughout the body

  • Sensory System: Provides sensation, allowing the body to perceive and respond to the environment.

    • Examples: Eyes, Ears, Nose, Mouth, Skin.

  • Urinary System: Allows for the elimination of urine, removing waste products from