Introduction
Anatomy and Physiology are the two main branches of medical and nursing science.
They help us understand how the human body is structured (Anatomy) and how it functions (Physiology).
Every nursing student must learn both subjects deeply to understand the patient’s body system and disease conditions.
Definition
Anatomy:
Anatomy is the study of the structure of the human body and its parts.
It explains how each organ is made and where it is located.
Example: Studying the shape, size, and position of the heart.
Physiology:
Physiology is the study of the functions of the body parts.
It explains how organs work and maintain normal body functions.
Example: Understanding how the heart pumps blood throughout the body.
Branches of Anatomy
| Branch | Description |
|---|---|
| Gross Anatomy | Study of body parts visible to the naked eye (e.g., muscles, bones). |
| Microscopic Anatomy (Histology) | Study of cells and tissues under a microscope. |
| Surface Anatomy | Study of external features of the body. |
| Developmental Anatomy (Embryology) | Study of body development from fertilization to birth. |
Branches of Physiology
| Branch | Description |
|---|---|
| Cell Physiology | Study of cell functions. |
| Systemic Physiology | Study of specific organ systems (e.g., cardiovascular, respiratory). |
| Pathophysiology | Study of how diseases affect normal functions. |
| Comparative Physiology | Comparison of body functions between different species. |
Levels of Structural Organization
The human body is organized into different levels:
- Chemical Level – atoms and molecules (like water, proteins).
- Cellular Level – smallest unit of life (cell).
- Tissue Level – group of similar cells performing a specific function.
- Organ Level – different tissues working together (like heart, lungs).
- System Level – organs that work together (like digestive system).
- Organism Level – the complete living body.
Difference Between Anatomy and Physiology
| Basis | Anatomy | Physiology |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Study of structure of body parts | Study of function of body parts |
| Focus | “What is it?” | “What does it do?” |
| Example | Structure of the lungs | Process of breathing |
| Tools Used | Dissection, models, diagrams | Experiments, measurements |
| Purpose | To know how the body is built | To know how the body works |
Importance in Nursing
- Helps nurses understand normal body functions and changes during disease.
- Guides in administering medicines, injections, and IV fluids properly.
- Helps in interpreting clinical signs and symptoms.
- Supports in emergency care and patient monitoring.
- Builds foundation for advanced nursing subjects like pathology and pharmacology.
Examples in Daily Nursing Practice
- Knowing the anatomy of veins helps in giving IV injections safely.
- Understanding respiratory physiology helps in managing oxygen therapy.
- Knowledge of cardiac anatomy helps in monitoring pulse and BP correctly.