Anatomy And Physiology|Biology
Homeostasis is defined as __________.
ANSWER:
the ability of the body to respond to external stimuli
the relationship between structure and function
the chemical processes that take place inside the body
the maintenance of a stable internal environment
Chapter 1 Running Case: Is Heartburn Dangerous?
Kenji Oshima (called KO) is a 58-year-old man who has not been to the doctor’s office for many years, which is not uncommon for men his age. He has insurance provided by his employer, but he hasn’t used it because he hasn’t been sick. Unfortunately, over the last eight months this has changed. In this period KO inexplicably has lost almost 20 pounds, and has regular episodes of heartburn. He frequently becomes short of breath and nauseated, which is followed by frightening episodes where he feels feverish and sweaty. He finally decided, with pressure from his wife and daughter, that he needed a full checkup. After KO filled out a medical history questionnaire in the waiting area, it didn’t take too long for him to be called back to an examination room. The medical assistant took KO’s vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate) and measured his height and weight, and then ushered him into a small examination room. KO was given a gown to wear and instructed to disrobe completely under the gown, and then to have a seat on the exam table. Miss Young, ARNP, introduced herself as the nurse practitioner who would be asking KO many questions in addition to those on the questionnaire. She said she would also be performing the physical portion of his exam. Ms. Young noticed that KO’s father had died of gastric cancer at the age of 64. When KO asked if he was supposed to see a doctor or a nurse practitioner, Ms. Young explained her role in the family practice medical group, something she explained regularly to new patients. KO wasn’t that familiar with the changes in healthcare and the types of providers that were practicing these days. He admitted that he was nervous about the appointment in general and meant no disrespect, but he was curious about Ms. Young’s qualifications and her educational background. Seeing KO’s apprehension, Ms. Young encouraged him to ask questions about anything that he felt would put his mind at ease. It is critical to develop a rapport with a new patient that is built on mutual respect and trust. This is the foundation that allows a healthcare provider to ask for and collect sensitive information that patients are sometimes unwilling to discuss even with close family members. In this same way, the study of anatomy and physiology is an important educational foundation to which aspiring healthcare providers must commit themselves. Without a solid foundation, the obligation to lifelong learning that all professions within the healthcare field advocate is a hollow oath.
Part A – Module 1.2 Overview of Anatomy and Physiology
The history and physical examination is a detailed process that attempts to establish a connection between the information provided by the patient about their health and lifestyle with the physical findings from the inspection of each of the eleven body systems. Which of KO’s symptoms is paired incorrectly with the body system that might produce that symptom?
