Anatomy & Physiology II builds upon the foundational knowledge established in Anatomy & Physiology I, focusing on the structure and function of the body’s major organ systems. This course provides a detailed exploration of the cardiovascular system, including cardiac anatomy, blood vessel structure, hemodynamics, and the composition and functions of blood, along with the cellular and molecular components of the immune system. Students will examine the respiratory system’s role in gas exchange and acid-base balance and investigate the complex processes of digestion, absorption, and elimination within the gastrointestinal tract.
The course concludes with comprehensive coverage of the urinary system’s role in fluid and electrolyte balance, the structural and functional aspects of the reproductive systems, and the physiological processes of development and inheritance. Students will develop critical thinking skills that integrate their understanding of multiple body systems and prepare them for advanced study in health sciences or clinical practice.
Learning objectives
After the completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Describe the structure and function of the heart, including cardiac conduction, and explain the physiological mechanisms that regulate cardiac output and blood pressure.
- Differentiate between the formed elements of blood and explain their functions while analyzing the roles of the immune system in defending against disease and maintaining homeostasis.
- Examine the anatomy of the respiratory system and explain the mechanics of breathing, gas exchange, and transport of respiratory gases in the blood.
- Trace the pathway of food through the digestive tract, identifying the major digestive organs and explaining their roles in mechanical and chemical digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Analyze the structure and function of the kidneys in urine formation, and explain how the urinary system maintains fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance.
- Compare and contrast male and female reproductive anatomy and physiology, including gametogenesis, hormonal regulation, and the processes of fertilization and early development.
- Interpret physiological data related to cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal function to assess normal function and identify potential dysfunction.
- Correlate anatomical structures with their physiological functions across multiple organ systems and explain their interdependence in maintaining homeostasis.
- Evaluate how disruptions in one body system can lead to compensatory or pathological changes in other systems.
- Apply clinical reasoning to case studies involving disorders of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.
Course outline
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Cardiovascular System
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Blood and Immune System
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Respiratory System
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Gastrointestinal System
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Urinary System
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Reproductive System