TL;DR
Body Systems (Anatomy & Physiology): The 11 organ systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive.
Body Systems (Anatomy & Physiology)
Definition
The 11 organ systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive.
Practical Example
Clinical Procedure: Respirations measurement is relevant to body systems (anatomy & physiology).
Technique: Count without patient awareness (keep fingers on wrist), observe chest rise, count 30 sec x 2 or 60 sec if irregular
Normal values: Normal adult: 12-20/min. Tachypnea over 20, bradypnea under 12.
Workplace Applications
Workplace application of body systems (anatomy & physiology) requires fluency in medical terminology:
| Prefix | Meaning |
|---|---|
| brady- | slow |
| hypo- | below/deficient |
| hyper- | above/excessive |
| dys- | difficult/painful |
| Suffix | Meaning |
|---|---|
| -itis | inflammation |
| -algia | pain |
| -osis | abnormal condition |
| -otomy | incision into |
Documentation
Documentation of body systems (anatomy & physiology) in the medical office uses HCPCS Level II: Supplies, equipment, drugs, non-physician services with alphanumeric starting with letter.
Examples: J7050: Normal saline solution infusion; A4253: Blood glucose test strip; E0601: CPAP device.
All documentation must be timely, accurate, legible, and include the provider signature. Late entries must be labeled as such with the date of the original event.
Patient Communication
Patient education about body systems (anatomy & physiology) should use simple language (6th-grade reading level). Verify understanding with teach-back: ask the patient to explain in their own words what was discussed. Provide written instructions to reinforce verbal education. Address cultural and language barriers using certified interpreters, not family members, for medical discussions.
Differential Diagnosis
When studying body systems (anatomy & physiology), carefully distinguish it from related but distinct concepts: medical terminology, vital signs. Exam questions often test your ability to select the most specific and appropriate answer when multiple options seem partially correct. Look for the option that most completely addresses the scenario presented.
Why It Matters
A&P tested across MA, EMT, Paramedic, and CST exams.
Related Terms
Practice This Topic
Ready to practice for the MEDICAL ASSISTANT?
Adaptive practice powered by Item Response Theory targets your weak areas. Start with 3 free sessions.
Start free practice →