Anatomy I II HEC-UHS Curriculum The study of human anatomy is fundamental in nursing education, providing essential knowledge about the structure and function of the human body. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program includes two comprehensive anatomy courses: Anatomy I and Anatomy II. Each course is designed to equip nursing students with the understanding necessary to provide effective patient care. In this overview, we will explore the syllabus, course objectives, major topics covered, and the resources recommended for students.
Course Description
The Anatomy I and II courses are structured within a 136-credit hour program, comprising 3 theory credit hours for each course. Notably, these courses do not require any laboratory or clinical hours, focusing primarily on theoretical knowledge. The objective is to introduce learners to the structures and functions of the human body, which is essential for integrating theoretical knowledge with clinical practice in nursing.
Course Objectives
Upon completing the anatomy courses, students will be able to:
- Describe the structure and function of various systems of the human body.
- Discuss the role of homeostasis in maintaining normal body function.
- Relate basic anatomy and physiology concepts to the nursing care of clients.
Anatomy I Course Outline
Unit I: Introduction to the Body as a Whole
- Definition of Anatomy: Understanding the relationship between anatomy and physiology.
- Levels of Organization: Explore the levels of organization in the body and define the anatomical position.
- Body Planes and Cavities: Describe various body planes and define the body cavities.
- Body Cavities and Organ Identification: Discuss body cavities and list the organs within each cavity. Identify the abdominal pelvic region and quadrants.
- Abdominal Pelvic Regions: Identify organs in the nine abdominal pelvic regions and discuss the significance of quadrants.
Unit II: Cell, Tissues & Membrane
- Cell Structure and Function: Describe the structure and function of cells and discuss cell division processes, such as mitosis and meiosis.
- Importance of Mitosis and Meiosis: Classify body tissues into four major types based on structure, location, and function:
- Epithelial Tissue
- Connective Tissue
- Muscle Tissue
- Nervous Tissue
Unit III: The Skeletal System
- Skeletal System Overview: Define the skeletal system and discuss the structure, types, and functions of bones.
- Functions of the Skeletal System: Identify the bones of the axial and appendicular skeleton.
- Bone Markings: Describe various surface markings on bones, including those of the skull, vertebral column, rib cage, and limbs.
Unit IV: The Joints
- Definition of Joints: Define joints and classify them into three types: fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial.
- Characteristics of Synovial Joints: Discuss common features and types of movements possible at synovial joints.
Unit V: The Muscular System
- Muscle Anatomy: Define key terms related to muscle structure (fascia, epimysium, perimysium, endomysium, tendons, and aponeurosis).
- Major Muscles: Describe the location and function of major muscles in the neck, face, back, arms, and legs.
Unit VI: Integumentary System (Skin, Nail & Hair)
- Skin Structure: Describe the two layers of skin: epidermis and dermis, and the structure of skin derivatives (sweat glands, sebaceous glands, hair, and nails).
Unit VII: The Cardiovascular System
- Blood Composition: Define blood and describe its structure, including cellular components and plasma.
- Vascular Structures: Explain the structure of arteries, veins, and capillaries, as well as the heart and its great blood vessels.
- Blood Circulation: Discuss the blood flow through the heart and the conducting system.
Unit VIII: The Lymphatic System
- Lymphatic Overview: Define lymph and the lymphatic system, identifying the organs involved.
- Structure of Lymphatic Organs: Describe the structure of lymph nodes, nodules, spleen, and thymus glands.
Unit IX: The Digestive System
- Digestive Anatomy: Describe the anatomy of digestive organs and the role of accessory organs in digestion.
- Organ Structures: Discuss the structure of the mouth, stomach, small intestines, and large intestines.
Anatomy II Course Outline
Unit I: Respiratory System
- Respiratory Anatomy: Describe the structure of the upper respiratory tract (nose, pharynx, larynx) and the lower respiratory tract (trachea, bronchial tree, lungs).
Unit II: Urinary System
- Urinary System Organs: List the organs of the urinary system and discuss the location and structure of the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, and urethra.
Unit III: Nervous System
- Nervous System Organization: Discuss the organization of the nervous system and describe the structure of neurons and neuroglia.
- Brain Structure: Identify the principal parts of the brain (hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain) and describe the structure of the cerebrum, brainstem, and cerebellum.
- Spinal Cord Structure: Discuss the general and gross sectional structure of the spinal cord and the reflex arc.
Unit IV: Special Senses
- Sensory Organs: Describe the structure and function of the ear and the eye, including accessory structures related to vision.
Unit V: Endocrine System
- Endocrine Glands: Define the endocrine system and identify its glands and tissues.
- Pituitary Gland: Discuss the location and structure of the pituitary gland and briefly review other glands, including the thyroid, parathyroid, pineal, adrenal, and pancreas.
Unit VI: Reproductive System
- Female Reproductive Organs: Categorize the essential and accessory organs of the female reproductive system and discuss their location and structure.
- Male Reproductive Organs: Categorize the essential and accessory organs of the male reproductive system and discuss their location and structure.
Recommended Books
- Guyton, A. C. (2001). Medical Physiology (10th ed.). Washington: Kirokawa.
- Tortora, G. J. (2000). Principles of Human Anatomy and Physiology (3rd ed.). New York: Happer & Row.
- Ross & Wilson. (2000). Anatomy & Physiology in Health & Illness. Edinburgh: Churchill 8th Edition.
Conclusion
The Anatomy I and II courses in the BScN program provide a comprehensive overview of human anatomy, essential for nursing students. The structured syllabus, covering various systems of the human body, prepares students to integrate anatomical knowledge into their nursing practice effectively. By understanding the structure and function of the body, nursing students can better address the health needs of their patients, promoting overall well-being and effective care.