Nursing Assistant Certification Course

Week 3: Anatomy and Physiology I

Duration: 3 hours

I. Introduction to Human Body Systems (0.5 hours)
   A. Overview of Body Systems
      1. Definition and importance of body systems
      2. Interaction and interdependence between body systems
   B. Organization of the Human Body
      1. Levels of organization: Cells, tissues, organs, and systems
      2. Homeostasis and the body's ability to maintain balance

II. Integumentary System (1 hour)
   A. Structure and Function of the Skin
      1. Layers of the skin: Epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis
         Example: The epidermis is the outermost layer, providing protection and giving rise to skin color.
      2. Functions of the skin: Protection, sensation, temperature regulation, and excretion
   B. Accessory Structures of the Integumentary System
      1. Hair: Structure, function, and growth
         Example: Hair provides protection from UV radiation and helps regulate body temperature.
      2. Nails: Structure, function, and growth
         Example: Nails protect the sensitive tips of fingers and toes and aid in manipulating objects.
      3. Glands: Sebaceous glands, sweat glands, and their functions
         Example: Sebaceous glands secrete sebum, which moisturizes the skin and hair.
   C. Common Skin Conditions and Disorders
      1. Infections, inflammations, and allergic reactions
         Example: Acne is a common skin condition caused by the blockage of hair follicles and sebaceous glands.
      2. Skin cancer and risk factors
         Example: Melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer, can develop from prolonged exposure to UV radiation.

III. Musculoskeletal System (1.5 hours)
   A. Structure and Function of the Skeletal System
      1. Bone composition and types
         Example: Long bones, such as the femur, provide support and facilitate movement.
      2. Major bones and their functions
         Example: The skull protects the brain and supports the structures of the face.
      3. Joints: Structure, function, and types
         Example: The knee joint, a hinge joint, allows for flexion and extension of the lower leg.
      4. Functions of the skeletal system: Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, and blood cell production
   B. Structure and Function of the Muscular System
      1. Types of muscle tissue: Skeletal, smooth, and cardiac
         Example: Skeletal muscle is responsible for voluntary movements, such as walking or lifting objects.
      2. Structure of skeletal muscles: Muscle fibers, fascicles, and connective tissue
      3. Muscle contraction: Sliding filament theory, role of ATP, and neuromuscular junctions
   C. Major Muscles of the Body
      1. Identification and function of major muscle groups
         Example: The biceps brachii muscle in the upper arm flexes the forearm at the elbow joint.
      2. Muscle actions and their opposing forces
         Example: When the biceps brachii contracts, the triceps brachii muscle relaxes, allowing for smooth movement.

Upon completing Week 3, students will have a foundational understanding of the integumentary and musculoskeletal systems. This knowledge will support their future learning in anatomy and physiology and enhance their ability to provide effective patient care as nursing assistants.