(TBBS) Body and Body Systems Module Overview

Body and Body Systems Module Overview

Introduction

Our bodies are comprised of a complex system of organs that each serves a specific function in keeping us alive. This unit will give you a basic knowledge of these body systems, as well as their related organs and functions. Understanding and knowing a few key structures, their locations and their functions will help you provide care to victims and communicate effectively with EMS personnel.

Essential Questions

  • What are the body systems and the major structures/organs in each system?
  • What are the primary functions of each body system?
  • What conditions may occur within each body system that would require emergency care?

Module Minute

A body system is a group of organs and structures that work together to perform specific body functions necessary for life. They include the Respiratory, Circulatory, Nervous, Musculoskeletal, Integumentary, Endocrine, Digestive, Urinary and Reproductive systems. None of these systems work independently but rely on each other to help maintain a healthy body. As a result, an injury or illness affecting one body system will often impact other systems. The nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal, controls all other body functions and body systems. Therefore, an injury to the neck may result in nerve damage that could affect the musculoskeletal system.

Key Terms

  1. Body System- A group of organs that work together to carry out specific functions to maintain homeostasis.
  2. Cranial Cavity- The space in the body that is located in the head and contains the brain and is protected by the skull.
  3. Spinal Cavity- The space in the body that extends from the bottom of the skull to the lower back and contains the spinal cord and is protected by the bones of the spine.
  4. Thoracic Cavity- The space in the body that is located in the trunk and contains the heart, lungs and other important structures which are protected by the rib cage and upper spine.
  5. Abdominal Cavity- The space in the body that is located in the trunk between the diaphragm and the pelvis which contains many organs including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, intestines, spleen, stomach and kidneys.
  6. Pelvic Cavity- The space in the body that is located in the pelvis or lowest part of the trunk and contains the reproductive organs, bladder and rectum.
  7. Airway- A passageway for air into or out of the lungs.
  8. Arteries- Any of the tubular branching vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the heart through the body
  9. Bone- Rigid organs that constitute part of the skeleton. They support and protect the various organs of the body, produce red and white blood cells and store minerals.
  10. Brain- The center of the nervous system that controls all body functions.
  11. Cell- The basic unit of all living things.
  12. Heart- The muscular organ that pumps blood through the blood vessels by repeated, rhythmic contractions.
  13. Lungs- The two spongy organs located in the chest that provide the mechanism for taking in oxygen and removing carbon dioxide during breathing.
  14. Muscle- A fibrous body tissue consisting of long cells that contract when stimulated and produce motion.
  15. Nerve- Filamentous bands of nervous tissue that sends signals (impulses) to and from the brain and all body parts impulses.
  16. Organ- A differentiated structure consisting of similar tissues and performing some specific function in an organism.
  17. Pulse- The beat you feel with each heart contraction.
  18. Skin- The tough, supple outer membrane that covers the surface of the body.
  19. Spinal cord- A long, thin, tubular bundle of nervous tissue and support cells that extends from the brain and extends down to the lower back.
  20. Tissue- A collection of similar cells that act together to perform specific body functions.
  21. Veins- Blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from all parts of the body to the heart.

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