Health science careers are not only in high demand, but they offer a diverse range of careers for all types of people interested in helping others. Acquire foundational knowledge required to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, and the education, training, and credentials needed to attain them. Learn basic medical terminology, principles of anatomy and physiology, and legal and ethical responsibilities. Explore communication, teamwork, and leadership techniques – providing a solid basis for those wanting to advance through the health sciences.

Unit 1: Considering a Career in Healthcare? Finding the Right Role

A rewarding career is something every young person would like to look forward to. And while health science careers are secure, as even during economic downturns everyone needs health care, an even more exciting aspect to careers in this field are the various types of work available for all different kinds of people—introverts and extroverts, the mechanically-minded, caregivers, visual thinkers, good organizers, and especially those who work well under high stress. Not only can people with different personality types find a good career in this area, but also many entry-level positions are in demand and that can lead to higher-paying jobs with more experience and further training. Health science is truly an exciting and versatile industry to explore—so let’s start the journey and discover the many career options in healthcare!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the concepts of the five career pathways in health science and provide examples of jobs in each category

• Compare the roles and contributions of different members of a healthcare team

• Research and assess the level of education and training required for specific healthcare jobs

• Develop a logical potential career path in health sciences

Unit 2: Healthcare Today: The Business of Caring

Unique! Uneven! High-cost! Hybrid! Best in the world! These and many other phrases have been used to describe the healthcare system in the United States. There is some truth to all those statements, and with the complexity of our healthcare system, you can say lots more about it. Let’s learn how the many parts of the US system of healthcare fit together to deliver care to a diverse population. From the facilities to the levels of care, we will move on to consider how health insurance and government agencies fit into this complicated system. We’ll also take a dip into the history of medicine, explore the present, and even look at some of the changes that we expect to see in the future of healthcare.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Compare the services of different healthcare settings

• Explain the government’s role in the US healthcare system

• Distinguish between the delivery models of HMOs, PPOs, EPOs, and POSs

• Analyze the economic factors affecting healthcare

• Trace the origins of current health treatments to older practices from many cultures

Unit 3: Anatomy, Physiology, and Medical Terminology in a Nutshell

It’s all Greek to me! That’s a phrase you won’t need to say after you dip your toe into the world of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. Learning about the body is fun, but it is also exciting to be able to describe things using the precise terms that are used in the healthcare professions. We’ll learn the basic structure and function of the human body, giving you a foundation for all that you will learn in the future. Then we’ll journey into terminology, breaking words down into their parts to make them easy to understand. Mandibular fossa, anyone? Just a part of the jaw. How about cardiopulmonary resuscitation? You may already know that one is CPR, the lifesaving technique to restart the heart and breathing. Soon, you’ll know how to decipher any medical term you come across, no matter how complicated it looks!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Trace the hierarchy of the structure of the human body, from atoms up to the whole organism

• Distinguish between anatomy and physiology, and discuss the relationship of these two fields of study

• Explain homeostasis and give three examples of this process

• Describe the position and direction of movement in anatomical terminology

• Decipher complex medical terms and build medical terms from prefixes, roots, and suffixes

Unit 4: Growth and Development Throughout the Life Span

The cycle of life—from birth to death—is a process of change and growth. Each stage brings challenges but also accomplishments and joy. Each of us is on this journey of life, and here, we will trace the needs of the tiniest humans up to their great-grandparents, and everyone in between. We will look at what each stage of life needs, physically, psychologically, and socially. We will also learn two of the most prominent theories about growth and psychological motivation: Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Hop on for the ride and get an overview of the development of a human being through the lifespan.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the physical, emotional, and social needs of babies, toddlers, teenagers, and adults

• Predict healthcare needs throughout the lifespan

• Debate the value of Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development in modern times

• Apply Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to understand what motivates human behavior

Unit 5: Health and Wellness

Medical professionals only work with people who are injured and unwell, right? Wrong! Health follows a continuum from optimal wellness to severe illness and everything in between. Today’s health professionals also focus on helping people develop healthy habits to increase their wellness. From eating well and exercising to minimizing exposure, to substances and diseases, allied health workers can improve the health of a whole population with small interventions. Concentrating on physical, emotional, and social health can be an enjoyable part of any health profession as it focuses on planning for health rather than waiting for illness to set in.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Integrate healthy eating and regular exercise into daily habits

• Assess and avoid the risks associated with using substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs

• Reflect on the emotional reactions to illness and the stages of grief

• Apply wellness principles to improve health and plan for wellness

• Link the effects of chronic stress to physical health and strategize interventions for stress management

Unit 6: Effective Communication in Healthcare

“What’s up, doc?” We all communicate every day, through the words we speak and write and also through the gestures and expressions of our bodies. In healthcare, communication is key to serving patients—as errors are costly. Medical error is the third leading cause of death in the United States, and up to 30 percent of all malpractice cases report communication error as a factor. So it pays to have every healthcare worker learn the techniques needed to communicate effectively and clearly. In addition, learning to communicate no matter the barriers—whether cultural or physical or as a result of how one communicates—means that important objective and subjective information can be collected and used to treat patients. Once the information is gathered, it will be time to report the data, in both written and oral formats. With that, we will have a great start in learning how to communicate in healthcare settings.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Deconstruct communication using the sender-receiver model

• Experiment with active listening and using open-ended questions in personal and school life

• Articulate barriers to communication in healthcare settings, including cultural factors

• Adapt your body language to build trust in a professional setting

• Categorize objective and subjective data and report events in the order of occurrence

Unit 7: Health and the Law

What would you do if a patient refused treatment that would save their life? How would you handle it if your best friend asked you questions about a patient at your clinic? Just because someone is a patient does not mean they are passive—patients participate in their care and they have rights. Respecting patient rights and autonomy is an important part of the job. Get the inside scoop on informed consent and that weird beast of a law—HIPAA—that helps keep patient records confidential. Knowledge is power, so learn the laws that apply to the health professions and learn how to protect yourself from criminal or civil liability. Plus, find out what employment laws will keep you safe and happy on the job.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Advocate for your rights as a patient

• Explain the components of HIPAA to keep patient information safe

• Debate the legality of actions a healthcare worker might take

• Role-play situations with legal and ethical implications for health workers

• List workplace rights and responsibilities that apply to healthcare employees

Unit 8: Ethical Responsibilities

Do the right thing! That’s what we should all do all the time, but in healthcare, there are ethical guidelines that help us figure out what that ‘right thing’ is. Complex matters of life and death come up every day in healthcare settings, providing ethical dilemmas that require thought and consideration to sort out. Thankfully, each profession and each healthcare institution has a code of ethics to help workers find the most beneficial and least harmful course of action. Learning how to recognize and deal with ethical dilemmas, from the life-threatening to the daily small decisions, is something that all healthcare professionals can use. These ethical conundrums are some of what make the healthcare field so interesting and challenging, no matter what career you choose. Fasten your seatbelts and come along as we explore ethics in the practice of healthcare.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Apply ethical principles to healthcare decisions

• Compare and contrast the scope of practice and codes of ethics

• Debate the ethics of technological advances in healthcare

• Reflect on how empathy is related to ethical principles in healthcare

Making sure that you, your patients, and your colleagues stay safe, you’ll begin analyzing your responsibilities for ensuring patient and personal safety with special attention paid to emergency procedures. Examine infection control, first-aid, CPR, and measuring a patient’s vitals. Learn about numerical data, such as systems of measurement, medical math, and reading and interpreting charts. And examine effective teamwork and leadership characteristics while building your employment skills.

Unit 1: Health, Safety, Security

Every workplace has dangers, but the risks that occur in healthcare settings are part of the everyday jobs of every player on the healthcare team. From taking care of the safety of vulnerable patients to taking care of your health so you can continue to help people, there are many things to learn about applying safety measures while working to improve the health of those in your community. Implementing standard precautions and following all hazard warnings, including reading SDSs for the chemicals you use, will ensure safer conduct. When there is an emergency, you not only need to respond to protect yourself but to operate as part of the response to any threat. Finally, we look at how to reduce medical errors in healthcare settings, creating a culture of safety on the job.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and manage safety hazards in a healthcare setting

• Implement proper body mechanics while moving patients

• Explain how different government agencies contribute to safety in healthcare

• Prepare for and respond to emergencies

• Analyze a problem using root cause analysis

Unit 2: Infection Control

How do we get sick? Tracing the chain of infection, we will learn how pathogens can invade and cause illness. We will learn how the body defends itself and the steps that each person can take to help stop the spread of infection. Something as simple as handwashing is the strongest weapon against pathogens, helping ordinary people and healthcare workers to keep germs at bay. But healthcare workers have a special duty to fight the spread of disease, being in the center of infection control—and with the power to fight the spread of disease, both to themselves and to the public at large.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Summarize the chain of infection

• Compare levels of cleaning in a healthcare setting

• Recommend when and how to cleanse hands in a healthcare setting

• Differentiate between standard precautions and transmission-based precautions

• Link infection control practices to the fight against drug-resistant infections

Unit 3: Bloodborne Pathogens

Jobs in healthcare are on the front lines of the fight against the spread of pathogens, and none more important than the serious bloodborne diseases caused by HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. We will learn the proper techniques for putting on and taking off PPE to stay safe from bloodborne and other pathogens. Each step done properly can stop a deadly pathogen in its tracks. In addition, we will dig into what community members can do to prevent exposure or access resources if they are exposed to a bloodborne disease.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Assess the risks posed by the most common bloodborne pathogens in the United States

• Describe how bloodborne pathogens can spread in healthcare settings

• Reconstruct the steps for properly putting on PPE

• Explain the reasons for safely disposing of biohazardous waste

• Summarize the most risky behaviors for transmission of bloodborne diseases, both in a healthcare setting and in the community

Unit 4: Signs of Life: Vital Signs and CPR

The signs of life, or what we call vital signs, are the ways we can sense the mysterious quality we call “life” in a body. The right temperature, the beating of the heart, the in and out of respiration, and the pressure with which blood pumps throughout our bodies are the ways we can tell that we are alive. Anytime any one of the vital signs deviates from the normal range, it can signal a serious health problem, so healthcare workers check on these signs of life very frequently, looking for any early sign of an ailment that they can help. Knowing how to properly check these measurements and record them is an integral part of most healthcare jobs. In an emergency, when these signs are not present or are wavering, learning CPR and first aid will mean that you can help keep these vital signs going, keeping a person alive until advanced medical care can take over.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Measure and assess body temperature readings, integrating knowledge about thermoregulation

• Trace the changes in breathing and pulse rates throughout the lifespan

• Appraise the relationship between the oxygen saturation of the blood and other vital signs

• Summarize the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings

• Describe the effects that CPR can have on a patient in cardiac arrest

Unit 5: Data, Measurement, and Math

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 to apply math skills to healthcare calculations that are used every day. Fractions, decimals, and converting measurements are numerical tools that healthcare workers use all the time. Measuring time, temperature, height, weight, distance, angle, and many other parameters provide valuable data for treating patients or analyzing public health problems. Once that important data is collected, turning it into a visually interesting graph, table, diagram, or chart can help healthcare professionals and their patients understand this information quickly and easily.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Distinguish between ratios and percentages

• Name the units of measurement in imperial and metric systems

• Convert between imperial and metric measurements

• Calculate body mass index

• Interpret charts, diagrams, graphs, and tables to use numeric information

Unit 6: Technology in Healthcare

Information technology as well as simple and advanced technologies used in diagnosing and treating patients plays a crucial role in medicine today. From stethoscopes to CT scanners, all this tech requires skilled, observant workers to correctly operate and maintain. But some of the biggest changes that tech brings to healthcare are in the electronic health records (EHRs) that store all types of patient information so medical professionals can help patients to optimize their health. Of course, along with the ease of using EHRs comes the danger of compromising patient privacy—either by posting about your work on social media (a big no-no!) or simply sending a record to the wrong person. Learning how to appropriately handle medical records is therefore of the utmost importance – let’s dive in!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the different types of technology used to diagnose, treat, and track patient health

• Troubleshoot simple computer problems

• Summarize the different parts of an electronic health record (EHR)

• Evaluate the reliability of health resources on the web

• Explain steps to keep protected health information (PHI) safe as an allied health professional

Unit 7: Teamwork and Leadership

Healthcare is a team sport—each person on the team has a job, and if they all work together effectively, the goal of high-quality patient care can be met. Everyone wins when the team pulls together. But just what can each person do to be a great team member? Read on for some great teamwork tips, as well as guidance on how to become a leader. Leadership can be practiced whether you are a member of a team or leading a team. When the team comes into conflict, there are some basic strategies to manage and resolve issues so everyone can continue to work towards the goal of health for the community.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Analyze the roles of different healthcare team members

• List and explain the characteristics of good teams

• Lead or participate effectively in meetings

• Recognize resistance to change in patients and colleagues

• Apply conflict resolution techniques to disagreements

Unit 8: Employability in Healthcare

The healthcare industry has the most jobs of any sector of the US economy. Students who can demonstrate both competent skills and strong “soft” skills will likely become valuable team members. Enthusiasm, integrity, and a strong work ethic will impress potential employers, so improving these qualities in oneself is an important part of preparing for a career. Read on for some tips regarding how to find and successfully apply for job opportunities in the field.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Present a professional image through behavior, appearance, and demeanor

• Demonstrate work-ready characteristics and habits such as punctuality, dependability, discretion, and flexibility

• Analyze your career goals and assess their feasibility

• Evaluate and interpret employment opportunities in healthcare

• Create elements of a career portfolio

Whether you plan on pursuing a career in health sciences or simply looking to gain an understanding of how the human body works, you’ll first need to understand the relationship between anatomy and physiology. Learn how to read your body’s story by understanding cell structure and their processes, and discover the functions and purposes of the skeletal, muscular, nervous, and cardiovascular systems, as well as diseases that affect those systems.

Unit 1: Human Body Organization

While Anatomy and Physiology courses are required for students beginning their journeys to a career in health science, they can also be of great value to others who simply want to improve their health and well-being. Just as it’s easier to navigate a foreign country if you understand the language spoken, it’s easier to navigate the human body if you understand the terminology related to the forms and functions of this fascinating area of study. If you’re lost in Italy, hopefully, you have a translation app. If you’re lost and trying to figure out how one symptom might be a clue to a larger problem in a patient, this material will help you navigate your way through body systems.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define and discuss the terms anatomy and physiology and their relationship to one another

• Describe the levels of organization of the human body from simple to complex

• Define and describe the anatomical positions and directional terms used in human anatomy

• Locate and describe the main regions, sections, and cavities of the body

Unit 2: Chemistry of the Body

Remember how we talked about one cell being smaller than a period? It’s mind-blowing to think that something so small has so much control over all of our body systems. There are over 200 different types of cells in the body that make up a total of 100 TRILLION cells in one person. Think about it for a minute: that number is the number 1 followed by 14 zeroes!

Let’s take a look at how cells are designed to make sure the human body stays healthy and balanced. Understanding cell design and reproduction is key to understanding how each body system works and how they interact to sustain life.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Summarize the relationships among homeostasis, control systems, and feedback loops

• Explain the structure and function of typical cells

• Explain mitosis and meiosis: their similarities and differences

• Describe and discuss how damage to one type of cell and/or tissue may impact the function of other cells and tissues

Unit 3: The Skeletal System

Can you imagine what it would be like if you didn’t have any bones and were only made up of muscle and skin? You wouldn’t be able to walk very well, type on the keyboard, or, certainly, be able to dance! There are 206 bones in the adult human skeleton. When we are born, we have more than 250 bones in our bodies, and as we grow and develop, some of the smaller bones fuse to form stronger, longer, and less pliable bones. The skeleton is not only what determines the shape and size of an individual, but it allows us to walk upright and perform the activities of daily life.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the structure and function of bones

• Identify the different types of bones

• Differentiate between the axial and appendicular skeleton

• Classify joints and their specific functions

• Summarize common diseases and disorders of the skeletal system

Unit 4: The Muscular System

Sit perfectly still while you look at your computer screen. You might think that none of your muscles are moving, but they are. The diaphragm, the sheet of muscle that rests under your lungs, is contracting and relaxing to facilitate your breathing when you’re at rest or in motion. Muscles also perform other functions that you may not have considered; not only does the muscular system move your limbs, it also interacts with other body systems to support vital movements around your body. Let’s see what muscles do for you.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the structure and function of muscles and muscle tissue

• Describe the sliding filament theory

• Interpret the names of various muscles based on Latin terms

• Distinguish between a muscle strain and other muscle injuries

Unit 5: The Nervous System

Snap your fingers. Can you imagine that in the time it took you to snap, a nerve impulse could travel the length of a football field? Now, think about an amazingly fast relay race. Your nervous system is like a relay: the baton gets passed from one group of cells to the next to deliver a message with lightning speed. It’s not one individual who carries the baton the length of the football field; it’s multiple people passing the baton across the length of the impulse to make the movement or sensation happen. Once you examine all the individual parts of the nervous system and how they work together, you’ll appreciate how fascinating it is.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Outline the organization and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems

• Locate and identify the major regions of the brain and describe their functions

• Analyze the basic structure and functions of the cranial nerves, spinal cord, and special sense organs

• Discuss common diseases and disorders of the neurological system

Unit 6: The Integumentary System

The integumentary system is one of the most unappreciated in the body. Most people might guess that the brain, heart, or lungs are the most important organs in the body, but the integumentary system plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis and protecting all of these other important organs. Let’s learn what makes the integumentary system so important.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Analyze the structure and function of the integumentary systems

• Discuss potential alterations in skin integrity

• Demonstrate the knowledge and skill related to performing effective hand hygiene

• Identify and analyze common diseases and disorders of the integumentary system

Unit 7: Essential Knowledge About Blood

Have you ever accidentally cut yourself so badly that your blood started to pool? As horrifying as that experience can be, it’s also fascinating to consider exactly what that deep red liquid is. Blood is a tissue that is made up of millions and millions of cells and chemicals that are dissolved within it. Like other body systems, it has multiple intricate parts that work together to perform functions within its assigned body system and coordinate activities with other body systems. It’s the levels of the various components of blood, the path they take to circulate in the body, and their relationship with our heart and lungs that contribute to maintaining homeostasis.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Distinguish between the various types of blood vessels

• Demonstrate knowledge of the composition of blood

• Identify the different ABO compatibilities

• Describe various disorders and diseases of the blood and its components

Unit 8: The Cardiovascular System and The Heart

We’ve all seen images on television of someone dramatically grabbing their chest and dropping to the ground, presumably having a heart attack. These significant injuries are a result of problems within the heart that are similar to the flickering of electricity in a room or clogged pipes in a sink. As you move through this unit, you will learn about the power grid and the plumbing in the heart, what happens when they are in top condition, and what happens when there is a service disruption.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the structure and function of the heart and circulatory pathways

• Compare and contrast systemic and pulmonary circulation

• Summarize the path for electrical conduction in the heart

• Discuss common diseases and disorders that affect the cardiovascular system

Examine the form and function of even more body systems. Learn about the structure, function, and interrelation between the lymphatic, immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and endocrine systems. The reproductive system is also discussed along with hereditary traits and genetics. And discover the importance of accurate patient documentation as well as the technology used in the industry.

Unit 1: The Lymphatic and Immune System

As you’ve already learned, the lymphatic and immune system is one of the major body systems. Some texts will label this body system as simply ‘lymphatic’ and exclude the immune system perhaps because you can’t see it. For this course, however, we’re going to combine the lymphatic and immune systems so that you develop an understanding of how these two systems work together to protect the human body from bacteria, viruses, and harmful cells within the body (in autoimmune disease and cancer for example).

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the structure and function of the immune system

• Compare and contrast the different types of immunity

• Explain the relationship between the lymphatic and circulatory systems

• Discuss common diseases and disorders of the lymphatic and immune system (etiology, prevention, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation)

Unit 2: The Respiratory System

The respiratory system is important. All cells of the body require energy, and this energy cannot be obtained through chemical reactions without oxygen. The respiratory system not only provides the route to collect the oxygen that is used in each of the metabolic processes that sustain life, but it also provides the route to rid the body of carbon dioxide, the by-product of many of these metabolic processes. In this unit, you will examine the structures that support the respiratory system, explore how oxygen is brought to the sites of cellular metabolism to help maintain homeostasis and learn what happens when the respiratory system is compromised. Now, take a deep breath and read on.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the structure and function of the respiratory system

• Compare and contrast ventilation and respiration

• Explain gas exchange

• Discuss common diseases and disorders of the respiratory system (etiology, prevention, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation)

Unit 3: The Digestive System

The digestive system is quite familiar to us since we are aware that we use it several times a day. There are so many mechanical and chemical processes, however, that take place to ensure the food we eat is digested and absorbed for use by the body. We might not realize just how complex and critical this body system is. Prepare to be amazed.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organization of the digestive system

• Explain the structure and function of the digestive system

• Discuss the six digestive processes and the digestive enzymes

• Describe diseases and disorders of the digestive system

Unit 4: The Urinary System

We might not enjoy speaking about the functions of the urinary system in our everyday lives, but this body system is critical to our health and to our body’s ability to maintain homeostasis. It’s important to understand the urinary system but also the important relationships between this system and others, such as the circulatory system. Did you know that the bladder can hold 1000 ml—or one whole liter—of urine?

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organization of the urinary system

• Explain the structure and function of the urinary system at both a macro and micro level

• Compare and contrast the female and male urinary systems

• Explain how urine is formed and excreted from the body

• Describe diseases and disorders of the urinary system

Unit 5: The Reproductive System and Genetics

The differences between men and women enable us to create unique and precise human offspring. How can we predict what diseases individuals will have, and how specifically do human beings grow from being tiny cells of fertilization? It’s truly fascinating to consider that each of us exists based on odds similar to winning the lottery. When someone tells you that you’re one in a million, you’re going to respond, “No, I’m one in fifteen million.” Read on to find out why!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Compare and contrast the organization of the male and female reproductive systems

• Explain the structure and function of the reproductive system

• Discuss genes and chromosomes from conception to birth

• Understand how a negative is used to create an image print

• Describe common diseases and disorders of the reproductive system

Unit 6: The Endocrine System

This is the last body system that you will explore in this course. Have you decided yet which one you feel is the most important? Which one, if it fails, will impact a person’s life the most? Have you thought about whether breathing is more important than the message the brain sends to the lungs to act breathing? Is your decision firm? What if you now learn that two organ systems work together more than any others to maintain homeostasis? Would this change your mind? In this unit, you are going to learn about the intricate ways that the glands and organs of the endocrine system work with the nervous system to ensure that all the hormone, electrolyte, and fluid levels are kept in balance. After working through this unit, you’ll be asked which is truly your favorite unit and the one that you believe plays the most important role in sustaining life.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organization of the endocrine system

• Explain the structure and function of organs of the endocrine system

• Explain how the endocrine system maintains homeostasis

• Describe diseases and disorders of the endocrine system

Unit 7: Assessing and Documenting Anatomy and Physiology

Have you ever read a journal or a personal memoir? Even a newspaper that recalls a series of events? If you have, you know that what makes them complete and informative is detail. The use of dates, times, and specific words helps the reader understand exactly what is being described by the author. A complete health assessment allows a healthcare provider to develop a full story or sequence of events that apply to a person’s situation. The recording of this information on paper or electronically ensures that care can be provided in a consistent, safe way.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the purposes of a healthcare record

• Discuss legal guidelines for documentation

• Describe confidentiality and the laws that govern patient privacy

• Describe the different methods of data collection

• Conduct a health history

• Organize a basic body systems physical assessment

Unit 8: The Science & Technology of Anatomy & Physiology

You’ve already learned that anatomy and physiology courses are required for students who are beginning their journey to a career in health science or for individuals who want to improve their health and well-being. Along this journey, you may have had questions about where it all began and what the proof is behind certain things that you read, or maybe you’ve even questioned why you would possibly need to know some of this material. This unit will bring you back to the beginnings of anatomy and physiology as a science and hopefully answer some of the remaining questions you have about why anatomy and physiology is important. You’ll also explore more about the various healthcare careers that use anatomy and physiology as a foundational tool in their scopes of practice.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the history of anatomy and physiology as a science

• Distinguish between the scopes of practice of various healthcare professions

• Differentiate between qualitative and quantitative research

• Discuss examples of different types of research studies that can advance the science of anatomy and physiology

• Illustrate how healthcare professionals work collaboratively

Learning the language is essential for careers in health science. Join word parts to form medical terms, associations within body systems, and better communicate with colleagues and patients. Build your proficiency and confidence with this course and prepare yourself for a career in health sciences.

Unit 1: Word Elements: Where It All Begins

Medical terminology is a language unique to a specialized field. To better understand medical terms, you need to first get to know the origin of words, how to dissect them, and how to build them. Part of this dissection and building process involves learning word parts and how to put those pieces together. In this unit, we will learn prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms. We will also learn about the origins of words that cannot be broken down using traditional methods. Additionally, we’ll explore how some of these terms are abbreviated and cases in which these abbreviations are not acceptable practice. So, let’s start putting the pieces of the puzzle together and learn more about this special language!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the components making up a medical term and the process for defining a word using those components

• Explain uses for prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms

• Recognize commonly used prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms

• Identify common medical abbreviations as well as those on the Do Not Use List

• Describe the origin of an eponym and give examples of common eponyms

Unit 2: The Building Blocks of the Body

The body is an amazing structure made up of many cells, tissues, organs, and systems. We can break down the way the body is built from the tiniest structure up to entire body systems. Taken as a whole, we then learn about body movement and the organization of body structures. By studying the cavities, regions, and quadrants of body organization, we can locate organs and other body structures and, by using this organizational system, healthcare providers are better able to pinpoint conditions and accurately communicate with patients. Ready to become an expert in navigating and identifying these structures? Let’s get started!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the building blocks of the body and how they are organized, from cell to system

• Define anatomic position and terms related to a change in that position

• Explain terms related to body movement and communicate body planes as related to anatomic position

• Explain the division of the body into cavities

• Describe the regions and quadrants of the abdomen and identify organs found in the different cavities, regions, and quadrants

Unit 3: Move It: Understanding Body Movement

With so many body parts, we need to be able to describe exactly how each part moves. Medical terms relating to movement allow us to do just that! By exploring the world of body movement, we find different types of movement and different types of joints that make this happen. As part of this world, we’ll learn abbreviations used commonly in medical documentation relating to these body parts and their movements. In addition, we’ll discover the many career possibilities related to the movement of body parts. Ready? Let’s get moving!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define medical terms related to body movement

• Explain movements using medical terminology

• Describe types of joints found in the body

• Identify commonly used abbreviations related to movement

• Understand occupations related to body movements

Unit 4: Breathing Easy: The Respiratory System

Breathing is an essential part of health and body function. The organs of the respiratory system make up a complex tree-like structure that helps us breathe without even thinking about it. To be an effective healthcare provider we must be familiar with the medical terminology that refers to the diseases, conditions, treatments, and tests of this system. We also need to be able to write and translate abbreviations and terms when documenting about this system. Let’s take a deep breath and explore this airy world!

• What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify and describe the functions of the organs in the respiratory system

• Recognize prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the respiratory system

• Describe diseases and conditions of the respiratory system

• Explain common treatments and tests used when evaluating conditions of the respiratory system

• Write and translate abbreviations used in medical documentation for respiratory conditions

Unit 5: Going with the Flow: The Cardiovascular System

We feel our heartbeat all the time, but what’s the reason and what’s it really doing? We’ll now explore the cardiovascular system with its organs and find our answers! As we investigate the workings of this system, we’ll learn the medical terms and word parts that describe different areas. As with any part of the body, things can go wrong. Our journey will take us through some of the conditions and diseases of this system, along with tools, tests, and treatments used in this world. Let’s get our blood pumping!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organs of the cardiovascular system and their functions

• Recognize and use the prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the cardiovascular system

• Identify common diseases and conditions of the cardiovascular system

• Explain tools, procedures, and tests used in diagnosing and treating the cardiovascular system

• Use and decode abbreviations commonly used when referring to the cardiovascular system

Unit 6: Keep Calm and Explore the Nervous System

With so many organs, tissues, and cells in the body, something must be in control! That’s where the nervous system comes into play. To be an effective healthcare team member, we need to learn the functions of the nervous system, the disorders associated with it, and ways to fix it. We also need to study the language, its word parts, and ways to abbreviate it. So, who’s in control here? Let’s find out on our journey through the nervous system!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the organs of the nervous system and describe their functions

• Recognize and use prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the nervous system

• Describe conditions, disorders, and diseases of the nervous system

• Explain tests, procedures, and treatments used for nervous system conditions

• Translate and use abbreviations in medical documentation related to the nervous system

Unit 7: Skin, It’s Got You Covered!

When you look at someone, what is the main thing you see? Skin is probably not your first answer, but if you think about it, that’s probably the best answer. That’s because skin is the body’s largest organ. There’s more to this world than meets the eye though. Let’s explore this complex world of tiny accessory organs and see just how much work this underrated system does.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify organs in the integumentary system and their functions

• Translate medical terms associated with the integumentary system using prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms

• Describe common diseases and conditions associated with the integumentary system

• Explain tests, procedures, and treatments used for conditions of the integumentary system

• Use abbreviations associated with the integumentary system

Unit 8: Hold Me Up: Musculoskeletal System

What allows us to stand? What protects our vital organs? How do we move? As we journey through the musculoskeletal system, we’ll find the answers to these questions and so much more. Our exploration will help us identify terms, conditions, tests, and treatments for this system. We’ll also work on our skills in decoding abbreviations for this system. Get ready to play detective and find out what’s holding us up!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organs of the musculoskeletal system and explain their functions

• Recognize prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms used in the musculoskeletal system

• Explain common conditions and diseases of the musculoskeletal system

• Identify common tests and treatments for conditions and diseases involving the musculoskeletal system

• Translate abbreviations and other medical documentation using terms related to the musculoskeletal system

Discover the medical terminology associated with even more body systems to increase your ability to master prefixes, suffixes, and roots. Connect this language to real-world patients and clinical settings through practical applications and specific scenarios. Launch your health knowledge with detailed medical terms.

Unit 1: Waste Away! The Urinary System

As the body takes in the materials that it needs, there has to be a way to get rid of the materials it doesn’t need. When we explore the urinary system, we’ll find out how this happens. We’ll also look at the word parts, terms, and abbreviations that are commonly used to relay information about this system. As with any complicated system, things can go wrong, so we’ll discuss diseases that affect the urinary system and ways to treat them. Come along as we keep what’s good and waste the rest!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organs of the urinary system and how each functions

• Identify commonly used prefixes, suffixes, and word parts of the urinary system

• Define common conditions and diseases that affect the urinary system

• Explain tests and procedures used in treating urinary system conditions

• Translate medical documentation using abbreviations and medical terminology of the urinary system

Unit 2: Creating the Future: The Reproductive System

What makes a male different from a female? As we explore the reproductive system, we’ll learn about the many organs that make these two very different! We’ll improve our translation skills as we look at word parts and abbreviations related to this system. We will also explore the diseases and conditions related to this system and the many ways to treat them. The world of medical terminology is a big one, let’s put together another piece of the puzzle!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe organs of the reproductive system and their functions

• Identify prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the reproductive system

• Define common diseases and conditions that affect the reproductive system

• Explain tests, treatments, and procedures used to treat conditions affecting the reproductive system

• Translate medical terms and abbreviations related to the reproductive system

Unit 3: Carry It, Clean It, Fight It: Blood, Lymph, and Immune Systems

What does blood do other than fill the vessels? What’s it made of? How does the body defend itself against invaders? The answers to these questions lie in the exploration of the blood, lymphatic, and immune systems. These systems are so connected we explore them together! During our exploration, we’ll discover diseases and conditions as well as treatments and tests for these systems. We’ll also add another piece to our medical terminology puzzle as we learn word parts, terms, and abbreviations. Let’s see how the body transports, cleans and defends!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the parts and organs of the blood, lymphatic, and immune systems

• Identify prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the blood, lymphatic, and immune systems

• Define conditions and treatments that affect the blood, lymphatic, and immune systems

• Explain the tests, treatments, and procedures related to the blood, lymphatic, and immune systems

• Translate medical documents using medical terminology and abbreviations related to the blood, lymphatic, and immune systems

Unit 4: Superpowers? No, Special Senses!

The abilities to see and to hear are remarkable characteristics that allow us to perceive the world differently. These special senses are a lot like superpowers in that they allow us to analyze our surroundings in many ways. As we dig deeper into these senses, we’ll see the conditions and treatments as well as the terminology used to refer to the eyes and ears. As we add this piece of the medical terminology puzzle, we’ll see what kind of powers we have!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organs and parts that make up the special senses

• Recognize prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms used to make medical terms related to the special senses

• Identify conditions and diseases that impact the special senses

• Explain the tests, procedures, and treatments used in diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the special senses

• Transcribe, translate, and abbreviate medical terminology related to the special senses

Unit 5: Take What's Needed, Let the Rest Go: The Digestive System

For humans, food is one of the essential elements needed to survive, but what does the body do with that food once we take it in? We’ll now find out by tracking the course of food through the digestive system to discover the organs and the parts of those organs that make them work properly. We’ll see the many word parts and abbreviations that are used to describe this system, as well as its conditions, diseases, tests, and treatments. This journey takes many twists and turns, let’s start the adventure!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organs and functions of the digestive system

• Recognize the prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms used to describe terms related to the digestive system

• Identify conditions and diseases that impact the digestive system

• Explain tests, procedures, and treatments used for the diagnosis and treatment of digestive system disorders

• Translate and abbreviate documentation related to the digestive system

Unit 6: Taking Control! The Endocrine System

Have you ever wondered what controls the processes in the body? What makes one thing speed up but later slow down? The answer to these questions is found in the study of the endocrine system. As we explore this complicated world, we’ll investigate the conditions and diseases that occur when things go wrong. We’ll also discover the tools, tests, and treatments to fix those conditions. Before we finish our exploration, we’ll become familiar with the medical language and abbreviations unique to the endocrine system. Let’s find out how the body takes control!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the organs of the endocrine system, including their functions

• Recognize and use prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms related to the endocrine system

• Define common diseases and conditions of the endocrine system

• Explain the tools, tests, and treatments used for diseases and conditions of the endocrine system

• Translate medical terms and abbreviations related to the endocrine system

Unit 7: Providing the Foundation: Medical Specialties

As we’ve seen, the body is made of multiple, complex body systems that require vast knowledge to diagnose and treat. To provide the services needed for the diagnosis and treatment of many conditions, medical specialties rise to the occasion! We’ll now explore the prefixes, suffixes, combining forms, and abbreviations that create the medical terminology for these areas. We’ll also identify the tests, procedures, and treatments provided by each area. Let’s discover the areas that give support and provide a firm foundation for the medical world!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the functions of specialty areas like pharmacology, psychiatry, oncology, genetics, radiology, and pathology

• Recognize prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms used in pharmacology, psychiatry, oncology, genetics, radiology, and pathology

• Identify conditions and diseases diagnosed and treated by pharmacology, psychiatry, oncology, genetics, radiology, and pathology

• Explain tools, procedures, and treatments used by pharmacology, psychiatry, oncology, genetics, radiology, and pathology

• Translate medical documents that include medical terminology and abbreviations used by pharmacology, psychiatry, oncology, genetics, radiology, and pathology

Unit 8: Putting It Together: A Healthcare Perspective

As we’ve seen throughout our explorations of the various body systems, each has its own set of conditions, tests, treatments, and medical language. When working in the medical world, those systems aren’t always separate. In many cases, patients have complex issues that cross boundaries and require knowledge of all body systems. Let’s now follow a few patients and see things from a healthcare perspective!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify medical terminology of the respiratory, cardiovascular, integumentary, digestive, urinary, reproductive, musculoskeletal, blood, immune, nervous, and special senses systems

• Break down medical terms of the respiratory, cardiovascular, integumentary, digestive, urinary, reproductive, musculoskeletal, blood, immune, nervous, and special senses systems into parts using your knowledge of prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms

• Translate medical documents of the respiratory, cardiovascular, integumentary, digestive, urinary, reproductive, musculoskeletal, blood, immune, nervous, and special senses systems using knowledge of abbreviations and medical terminology

• Recognize organs of the respiratory, cardiovascular, integumentary, digestive, urinary, reproductive, musculoskeletal, blood, immune, nervous, and special senses systems

• Understand tools, treatments, and tests used for diseases and disorders of the respiratory, cardiovascular, integumentary, digestive, urinary, reproductive, musculoskeletal, blood, immune, nervous, and special senses systems

From doctors and nurses to x-ray technicians and medical aides, the field of healthcare offers numerous roles that will allow you to make a difference in the lives of patients. In this course, you’ll learn all about the foundations of healthcare from how the industry works around the world, to the different professions that fall within the field. You’ll also learn medical terminology and calculations, the difference between diagnostic and therapeutic careers, and the legal and ethical considerations. Let’s start building the foundation of a healthcare career today!

Unit 1: A Trip through the Exciting World of Health Care

Global pandemics, variations in access to health care, political health issues, economic forces, noncommunicable diseases, and environmental changes all influence the world of health care as we know it today. To understand our present, we need to look at the history of this exciting world and the factors that influenced its development. As we’ll see, not all health care is created equal, and health care differs drastically from one area of the world to the next. As we explore the past, present, and future of health care, we’ll see why choosing a career in health science makes perfect sense!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define healthcare and the components that influence healthcare systems

• Describe types of healthcare systems throughout the world

• Analyze the United States healthcare system and the agencies that oversee it

• Evaluate the global impact of disease and the effects of access to quality healthcare

• Identify the factors that make health care a good career choice

Unit 2: Adventures in Healthcare Careers

Do you like technology and working with equipment or do you prefer communicating and working hands-on with patients? Whatever your skills and preferences, the healthcare world has a career for you! As we take an adventure through healthcare careers, we’ll see some skills each one requires and take a glimpse at the types of functions performed daily. We’ll also explore the personal qualities required for these types of careers and workplace expectations for someone in these roles.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe diagnostic health science careers, including duties, skills, and qualifications

• Identify therapeutic health science careers, including duties, skills, and qualifications.

• Explain workplace expectations in a healthcare setting

• Differentiate between job settings in healthcare

• Analyze key components of different healthcare careers

Unit 3: Using a New Language

Have you ever heard someone explain something using technical terms and had no idea what they meant? Industries use everyday language to relay information, and unless you know how the terms apply in that setting, it’s impossible to understand their meaning. The healthcare world is no exception when it comes to language! Communication in health sciences requires understanding and properly using medical terminology and calculations that are part of everyday interactions. Using the new language effectively helps you function in this highly specific world as a valuable team member.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Examine how to decode medical terminology using prefixes, root words, and suffixes

• Differentiate between commonly used medical abbreviations and abbreviations that should not be used

• Describe body parts and movements using common medical terms

• Review common calculations used by healthcare professionals

Unit 4: Communicate Like a Pro

No matter what type of health science profession interests you, good communication skills are essential for success. From verbal to nonverbal techniques and personal to professional exchanges, the way we interact with the people around us forms the foundation for whatever we’re trying to accomplish. As we explore the various types of communication, we’ll investigate barriers to communication, cultural awareness, and ways to communicate with special populations. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to communicate like a pro!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Contrast various types of communication and the importance of active listening

• Describe the components of the communication process

• Analyze features of effective communication

• Identify potential barriers to communication and ways to overcome them

• Explain ways to effectively use technology as a communication tool in healthcare

Unit 5: Get Well, Stay Well

Healthcare professionals work to take care of health issues in patients, but they also provide patient education about preventive measures patients can use to avoid health issues. As we explore the concepts of health and well-being, we’ll look at methods people can use to identify aspects of wellness and improve their health and well-being. We’ll also discuss how healthcare workers need to remember and apply the concepts they’re teaching to patients in their own lives. As we’ll see, everyone needs to know how to get well and stay well!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the differences in health and wellness and the importance of development milestones

• Describe the hierarchy of needs and its role in health and wellness

• Analyze dimensions of wellness and strategies used to fulfill them

• Identify complementary and alternative health practices and therapies

Unit 6: Encountering Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a topic we frequently hear about in the news. Other than treating patients affected by substance abuse, this isn’t something we need to worry about, is it? Unfortunately, this question relays a common misconception about substance abuse. As healthcare professionals, although we do need to know how to provide care to patients affected by substance abuse, we also need to be aware of the risks of addiction ourselves. As we explore this topic, we’ll investigate how drug schedules help identify how addictive a particular drug is. We’ll also examine the anatomy and physiology of addiction, the effects of substance abuse, and treatment options. Let’s raise our awareness so we are better prepared to face this difficult topic.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define substance abuse and describe how substances are classified

• Analyze the physiology and cycle of substance use disorder

• Identify risk factors, warning signs, and the potential effects of substance abuse

• Explain treatment options for substance use disorder

Unit 7: Meet the Patient

Although each healthcare professional specializes in job-specific skills required to perform their role on the team, some skills are universal and must be mastered before interacting with patients. Think about a time you had an appointment at a clinic or with a nurse practitioner or doctor. What did the medical assistant, nursing assistant, or dental assistant do before, during, and after interacting with you? Even though these skills often go unseen or are so much a part of the process we take them for granted, they help providers assess the patient and promote a safe environment. Let’s get ready to meet the patient!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the causes of infection and the role of hand hygiene in its prevention

• Identify standard and transmission-based precautions

• Analyze key factors that impact patient interactions

• Explain how to measure vital signs and the normal ranges for each measurement

Unit 8: Legal and Ethical Considerations

Healthcare professionals learn skills specific to their profession, but did you know they are legally obligated to stay within certain guidelines? What tells them what they can or can’t do? As we explore these questions, we’ll investigate guiding principles and learn about legal and ethical considerations faced by healthcare providers. In addition, we’ll look at the consequences of unacceptable behavior.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain ethics and ethical behavioral standards for healthcare professionals

• Describe legal aspects related to the duties of healthcare professionals

• Identify healthcare regulatory agencies

• Analyze the role of professional associations

You’ve built a solid foundation of knowledge of the healthcare field, and now it’s time to probe deeper into the healthcare profession. In this course, you’ll review key aspects of the broad category of safety as well as learn how to assess and treat patients for an array of injuries. You’ll learn how to identify emergencies, trauma, and complex care, and the basics of CPR and life support. Lastly, you’ll explore the importance of collaborating with other team members to manage and resolve conflicts. Let’s suit up to learn how you can positively impact patients in the field of healthcare.

Unit 1: Safety in the Workplace

We know healthcare professionals perform job-specific skills, communicate with patients, and exhibit compassion each day, but who is responsible for keeping patients safe? The answer may surprise you! Anyone working in a healthcare facility plays a role in keeping the environment safe for everyone: patients, workers, and visitors. As we explore what it takes to maintain a safe workplace, we’ll investigate the types of hazards in these environments and the actions we need to take to protect everyone.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe organizations that provide safety guidelines for healthcare institutions, along with examples of patient safety goals

• Identify ways to comply with environmental safety guidelines

• Explain types of hazardous materials and waste found within a healthcare facility

• Analyze ways to reduce the healthcare worker’s risk of injury in the workplace

Unit 2: Documentation

Healthcare providers perform many job-specific tasks as they care for patients. One often overlooked but very important task is documentation. In the healthcare world, it’s often said that if something isn’t documented, it didn’t happen. When dealing with patient welfare, it’s critical to track every move taken throughout the care process to know what was done along the way. As we explore this topic, we’ll look at various types of documentation and methods to ensure accuracy no matter what profession you’re in.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Differentiate between paper and electronic record systems and identify the importance of health information technology

• Describe security measures used to protect health information and how HIPAA influences this protection

• Identify the parts of a medical record

• Analyze other systems used when documenting health information

Unit 3: On the Job

Think about some of the job responsibilities of the allied health professionals we’ve learned about so far. Each profession has some skills unique to that field, while other skills overlap from one profession to another. As we begin to look at skills used in direct patient interaction, we’ll investigate those needed by all professionals, like patient admitting and discharge requirements, communicating effectively in various situations, and patient movement and positioning. After examining these types of skills, we’ll narrow our focus to more specific ones, like assisting patients with daily living tasks and assessing patients’ range of motion. Ready to get on the job? Let’s learn more about the skills you’ll need!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define functions related to patient admission, transfer, and discharge

• Identify methods for moving patients for treatment or examination

• Analyze patient positions and proper use of support devices

• Describe skills related to assisting patients with activities of daily living

Unit 4: Collaboration in Health Care

Although most of the time we think about each healthcare professional as an individual performing functions independently, everyone in the medical world is part of a team. Think about how complex the human body is, with all of the systems working together to maintain everyday functions. Just like the various systems work together for a common goal, so do healthcare workers! No matter which healthcare profession you choose, being a valuable team member and knowing how to collaborate with other professionals puts you on the path to a successful career.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the members that make up a team and the principles of collaboration

• Assess team dynamics, including team roles and the stages of team development

• Analyze effective conflict resolution techniques in healthcare settings

• Identify leadership skills of healthcare professionals

Unit 5: Responding First

From a scraped knee and a bee sting to foreign bodies and open wounds, healthcare workers need to learn all types of skills to care for patients outside and inside medical facilities. The steps they take to care for patients when injuries happen are all first aid. Although most of us know how to deal with minor issues like a scraped knee or bug bite, we may not know how to deal with other types of wounds. Healthcare professionals need to be prepared to not only respond to all types of injuries but also react when things don’t go as planned. As we explore what it takes to respond first, we’ll analyze the steps and the skills needed to care for patients in a variety of non-trauma situations.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define the role of healthcare professionals in providing first aid

• Identify first aid skills used in treating bites, blisters, and bruises

• Explain first aid skills used in treating cuts, foreign bodies, and puncture wounds

• Describe the steps used when performing venipuncture

Unit 6: Recognizing and Reacting to Emergencies

Healthcare professionals of all specialties must be prepared to handle any type of emergency that arises inside and outside of a medical facility. To be ready to react, they need to understand and differentiate between what’s normal and what needs immediate attention. As we explore how to recognize an emergency, we’ll investigate how the body maintains its constant balance of biological and chemical processes. We’ll also examine the signs and symptoms to look for when that balance is disrupted. By recognizing these signs and symptoms, we’ll be ready to react with emergency treatments such as performing CPR, using an AED, and clearing airway obstructions.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain how the body works to maintain homeostasis

• Identify normal and abnormal signs and symptoms as they relate to an emergency

• Describe how to perform CPR and use an AED

• Define the AHA chain of survival and how to dislodge a foreign body obstruction

Unit 7: Trauma and Complex Care

Do you have what it takes to think quickly and make complex decisions related to emergency situations? How well do you adapt when a situation changes or when something doesn’t go as planned? During our exploration into trauma and complex care, we’ll see how the body changes with various conditions and investigate ways to care for patients in different situations. Additionally, we’ll discover the importance of assessing each emergent situation and adjusting decisions to reach the best possible outcome for the patient. As we’re about to learn, treating trauma isn’t just about the condition, it’s about problem-solving and adapting to the situation.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define trauma and complex care along with the importance of critical thinking in these situations

• Explain how blood flow conditions cause changes in the body that result in the need for emergent care

• Describe the impact of exposure to heat or cold on the body

• Identify types of bone and joint injuries as well as the first steps in treating them

Unit 8: What’s Next?

The world of health sciences includes a wide variety of occupations, making it possible for people to choose a career path best suited to their interests. The skills and educational training required for each career provide a foundation for pursuing that dream job. As we explore what’s next, we’ll review written and oral communication skills as they apply to the job search, including preparing application documents and interviewing. We’ll also focus on how to find job opportunities and narrow down that search. To complete the process, we’ll investigate training opportunities and the importance of staying active in the profession. With so much knowledge about health sciences, we’re ready to explore what’s next!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Research educational requirements and certification and licensure by profession and location

• Create a resume and cover letter to prepare for employment opportunities

• Complete steps in obtaining employment including conducting a job search, preparing for an interview, and completing employment procedures

• Analyze the importance of professional organizations and potential areas of career advancement in the health sciences

It takes a strong team to offer top-notch patient care, and each team member plays in integral role. Are you a team player interested in coordinating patient care? Then a career as a medical assistant may be right for you! In this course, you will acquire medical terminology, investigate anatomy and physiology, learn the keys to professionalism in an office setting, and explore office roles while building a professional portfolio. Let’s learn what it takes to fill the important shoes of a medical assistant today!

Unit 1: Healthcare Services and the Healthcare Team

Have you ever wondered what it takes to care for a patient? We all know what it’s like to see a doctor and get treated, but so much more is going on behind the scenes. The healthcare world consists of a wide variety of professionals who perform roles that are just as diverse. As we explore the history of these services and the roles of the people who make up the healthcare team, we’ll also see the importance of teamwork in accomplishing the common goal of treating the patient. Let’s investigate healthcare services and the healthcare team!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Discuss the history of healthcare service

• Identify the components of the healthcare delivery system

• Name the types of healthcare organizations and give examples of organizations that set the guidelines to oversee them

• Describe the responsibilities of different members of the healthcare team to understand the importance of teamwork

• Outline ways to find, apply for, and interview for a healthcare job and recognize the importance of mental health for healthcare professionals

Unit 2: Learning the Language: Medical Terminology

Have you ever heard medical professionals talking in a doctor’s office or a hospital and had no idea what they were saying? What about the abbreviations they use? How can so little mean so much? The medical world has its own language and to become part of that world, we need to learn that language, speak it, and translate it for our patients. Let’s continue building a firm foundation for medical assisting as we learn the language of medical terminology.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Outline the process for building a medical term and making it plural

• Recognize commonly used prefixes and suffixes

• Define commonly used combining forms by translating conditions, procedures, and instruments

• Identify abbreviations, acronyms, and symbols used in the medical world

• Describe anatomical positions, divisions, and body positions as well as their relationship to body movement

Unit 3: Building Up: Anatomy and Physiology I

Before we learn about the skills that are specific to any medical profession involving patient care, we must gain an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology. As we review this material, we’ll start with the smallest unit within the body, examine its systems, and identify growth and development patterns and milestones across the lifespan. Have you ever wondered what keeps all of these processes going? We’ll also look at the role nutrition plays in maintaining health. Let’s build up to staying healthy!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the structural units of the body (e.g., cells, tissues, and organs) and their importance in maintaining homeostasis

• Describe the nutritional needs of the body and how diet may be adjusted to compensate for conditions and disorders

• Outline developmental stages, milestones, and growth patterns in conjunction with the role each plays in patient health education planning

• Recognize the structure and functions of the musculoskeletal system

• Analyze the roles of the integumentary and sensory systems

Unit 4: Take a Deeper Look: Anatomy and Physiology II

We know what we see when we look at someone, but what mysteries lie beneath the surface? As we take a deeper look, we’ll explore systems within the body that perform functions like circulation, respiration, digestion, and sending and receiving nerve impulses. Although each system plays a unique role, we’ll investigate how they work together to maintain homeostasis and create a healthy body.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the structures and functions of the nervous system

• Describe the organs and tissues of the hematopoietic and lymphatic systems

• Recognize the role of the tissues and organs of the cardiovascular system

• Explain the structure and function of the organs of the respiratory system

• Analyze the digestive and urinary systems

• Describe the parts of the reproductive and endocrine systems

Unit 5: When Things Go Wrong: Diseases and Disorders

The way the body’s systems work together to maintain the careful balance of health is truly amazing, but with so many working pieces, sometimes things go wrong. This investigation leads us through the various body systems to determine the causes, signs, and symptoms of common diseases and disorders as well as risk factors and methods of diagnosis and treatment. We’ll also look into the role pathogens play in the spread of disease and ways to prevent them. But, if we don’t consider mental health, we aren’t treating the whole patient, so we’ll also look into the role of psychology in patient care. Come along as we find out what happens when things go wrong!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe common pathology of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems

• Investigate issues involving diseases of the sensory, integumentary, and reproductive systems

• Define the digestive, urinary, and endocrine systems

• Demonstrate knowledge of the pathology of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, and respiratory systems

• Identify pathology of the hematopoietic system and how bloodborne pathogens spread disease

• Explain developmental psychology and factors that impact mental health

Unit 6: Professionalism and the Art of Communication

What characteristics make someone a professional? Sure, the educational requirements and additional certifications are part of the equation, but many traits can be mastered before getting to that level! As we explore the keys to effective communication, we’ll also investigate important factors in professionalism as well as the ethical role and responsibility of a healthcare worker. Join me as we decipher the key to professionalism and the art of communication!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe verbal and nonverbal communication skills, including special considerations

• Analyze common barriers to communication

• Identify proper handling methods for verbal and written correspondence

• Recognize defense mechanisms and how to handle crucial conversations

• Discuss professionalism and ethical behavior in healthcare settings

Unit 7: Technology in Health Care

Have you ever wondered how healthcare organizations manage the huge amounts of patient information that they ask for and update regularly? The days of paper files and large storage rooms are disappearing as all types of healthcare facilities switch to electronic systems. What considerations come along with utilizing these systems and what types of functions make life easier? We’ll find answers to these questions and more as we explore technology in health care.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe similarities and differences between paper-based systems and electronic systems used in health care

• Discuss legal and ethical issues and regulations related to technology in healthcare

• Identify the contents of medical records and the importance of maintaining them

• Define functions of electronic health records, electronic medical records, and computerized physician order entry systems

• Analyze uses of software and peripheral devices

Unit 8: Front Office Roles

Medical assistants perform many roles in the medical world. In the front office, they serve as the voice and face of the facility, guiding patients as they schedule their appointments, come in for the visit, and leave after seeing the doctor. They likewise help to maintain the waiting room and frequently interact with vendors and other business associates. Together, we’ll investigate what it takes to be a medical assistant in the front office. With so much that could go wrong in this process, we’ll see what goes on behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe methods used to format a schedule for patient appointments

• Identify scheduling considerations

• Recognize methods to manage workflow in a medical environment

• Manage the medical facility environment

• Analyze communication methods and methods of improvement in a medical facility

It’s time to grab your latex gloves and snap them back into place so you can get a deeper look into the world of medical assisting! In this course, you’ll explore patient care and procedures, testing and care coordination, pharmacology and safety, reimbursement, and the law. You’ll also narrow your areas of interest so you can better determine what type of medical assisting may be best for you. Are you ready to continue on the road to medical assisting? Grab your lab coat and let’s get going!

Unit 1: Healthcare and the Law

How does the legal system influence the healthcare world? A quick answer to someone on the outside may be “not much,” but in fact, many legal and ethical aspects guide all types of medical professionals. From toeing the legal and ethical line to reporting violations, a medical assistant needs knowledge of these topics to stay within the bounds of the profession. When health and life are on the line, you can bet the law has something to say about it!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the difference between ethical and legal requirements and recognize basic legal terminology as it relates to professional liability

• Identify laws and legal obligations related to a healthcare professional

• Analyze legal requirements related to privacy and confidentiality of patient information

• Explain legal documents related to informed consent and advance directives and how these documents are used in the healthcare environment

• Summarize the importance of recognizing and reporting any legal or ethical incidents or violations

Unit 2: Maintaining a Safe Environment of Care

When you go into any healthcare facility, you probably don’t give much thought to how they are keeping you safe. For something we often overlook, safety is a major focus for all healthcare workers. As we explore things like infection control, safety standards, and proper body mechanics, we’ll take a magnified look at all the little things that go into safety procedures. Let’s see what it takes to maintain a safe environment for our patients and ourselves.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify modes of transmission of infection and methods of infection control to stop them

• Analyze levels of infection control and apply them to the sterile environment

• Describe the keys to proper body mechanics and patient positioning

• Recognize OSHA safety standards within health care and methods of implementation

• Evaluate the importance of quality control procedures within healthcare organizations

Unit 3: Pharmacology

Imagine a time when you were sick enough to go to the doctor. You were examined and prescribed medication, went to a pharmacy to get it filled, and took it as directed on the bottle. Sounds fairly simple, right? It’s not as simple as it sounds. All kinds of medications are available to treat a range of conditions and can be given in a variety of ways. Medical assistants need knowledge of pharmacology as part of their every day practicing skills. Let’s discover the ins and outs of the not-so-simple world of pharmacology!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define pharmacokinetics, including drug classifications and schedules

• Identify the routes of medication administration and the role of the medical assistant

• Analyze methods used to properly handle medications as well as ways to calculate dosages

• Demonstrate knowledge of commonly prescribed medications and commonly used abbreviations on prescriptions

• Describe immunization schedules and requirements

Unit 4: Patient Care Essentials

Have you ever thought about the coordination required to manage patient flow in a medical facility? With so many patients needing to be seen by providers each day, it takes organization and a team effort to keep things going at the right pace. Medical assistants play a large part since they are often the first friendly face in the process. Knowing the importance of this role, we’ll explore the skills it takes to care for patients throughout this process. While some expertise is contingent on the type of office or healthcare organization environment, others are essential for every situation. Let’s start by investigating patient care essentials.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Measure vital signs and other patient assessment data as part of the initial intake process

• Demonstrate knowledge of BLS and CPR

• Recognize signs and symptoms of conditions that constitute a medical emergency

• Identify common conditions like burns, poisoning, bites, cuts, and hot/cold exposure and the first aid skills needed to treat them

• Describe conditions like asthma, hyperventilation, and the differences between common muscle or bone injuries and first aid skills to treat them

Unit 5: Procedural Patient Care

If you break down the term medical assistant, you can guess that these healthcare professionals help with things related to the medical field, but what does that mean? Is something stuck in a patient’s ear? Does a patient need education on how to manage their diabetes? How do you help a patient cope with end-of-life issues? From eyes and ears to skin, lungs, and toes, medical assistants help with all types of procedures, instruction, and counseling. As we explore the role of the medical assistant further, we’ll learn the basics of these procedures and the patient care skills it takes to master this profession.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain methods of testing eyes, ears, and reflexes as part of the patient examination

• Describe steps in assisting with different types of allergy and respiratory tests and treatments

• Discuss methods for assisting with common non-surgical and surgical procedures

• Demonstrate accurate documentation methods while assisting with general physical exams

• Educate, screen, and counsel patients based on provider orders

Unit 6: Laboratory Testing

When a patient comes into a healthcare facility seeking answers about their health, providers compile the signs and symptoms to try to determine the cause of the problem. Often those clues aren’t enough, so they turn to laboratory testing. Since this type of testing plays a huge part in diagnosis, medical assistants need knowledge of the types of tests available and how to perform them. As we explore the world of laboratory testing, we’ll learn everything from collection and normal versus abnormal values to quality control for this type of environment.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe common tests using blood samples along with normal and abnormal results

• Identify common tests using methods other than blood along with normal and abnormal results

• Explain methods of blood collection including techniques and sampling processes

• Recognize methods of collection and sample handling for samples other than blood

• Analyze laboratory processes and quality control standards

Unit 7: Other Types of Testing and Care Coordination

As providers evaluate patients to decide on a diagnosis, they use the physical exam and the laboratory results as stepping stones to set them in the right direction. To confirm a suspected diagnosis or to narrow down the possibilities, they turn to other types of testing. As we explore this next step in the diagnostic process, we’ll see how performing an EKG, recognizing normal versus abnormal rhythms, and differentiating between other diagnostic techs are important skills for a medical assistant helping to coordinate this part of the care process. In addition, we’ll see the adjustments needed when educating patients about all aspects of their care.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Identify the parts of an EKG wave and how it correspond to the heart’s electrical conduction pathway

• Describe the process of performing types of EKGs

• Differentiate between artifacts and critical versus non-critical arrhythmia

• Explain various types of computer-based diagnostic testing

• Analyze the team-based approach to health care and ways to coordinate the patient care process

Unit 8: The Reimbursement Process

When someone mentions working in health care, most people think of working with patients, completing tasks like taking vital signs, performing tests, or providing bedside care. Have you ever wondered how this health care gets paid for? An often overlooked, but just as important, part of the medical world is the reimbursement process. From prior authorizations to coding and billing for services, medical assistants play a big part in making sure things go smoothly and providers get paid for their services.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the importance of insurance and the types of insurance available to patients

• Describe various healthcare delivery models and the incentives available to providers to reduce the cost of care

• Discuss processes and actions in the reimbursement process that help prepare for a patient’s visit

• Identify methods of medical billing and coding

• Analyze ways to identify errors and resolve issues in a medical practice

If you ever thought about pursuing a gratifying career in biomedical sciences, pharmacology is a must. Pharmacology is the fascinating study of the chemistry, origins, and types of medications. Whether you plan on going into medicine, nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or pharmacy, you’ll need to learn the effects of medicines on different biological systems, appropriate dosages, and how the body responds to different medications.

Unit 1: Principles of Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the fascinating study of the chemistry, origins, and types of medications. Like other branches of science and medicine, pharmacology uses specific terminology and a language as unique as English is to the United States and Italian is to Italy. And, in order to be able to understand the pharmacological sciences, those who research, develop, prescribe, and administer medications need to first be able to learn that language. Here, we’ll introduce you to the language of pharmacy and the terms you will need to support your journey!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Define pharmacology, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacotherapeutics

• Distinguish between therapeutic effects, side effects, and toxic effects

• Describe the advantages and disadvantages related to the routes of medication administration

• Explain medical terms associated with drug forms

Unit 2: Medication Math

Medication dose calculations, if done incorrectly, can have serious and sometimes fatal consequences. To prevent causing harm, anyone involved in the prescribing, dispensing, or administering of medications must have knowledge of basic math, be able to convert between various units of measurement and know how to interpret medication orders. Read on to get the tools you need to be sure you can perform medication calculations accurately — this is information no one should miss!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Demonstrate an ability to use metric and household measurement systems

• Convert units of measurement

• Solve one- and two-step medication calculation problems

• Calculate intravenous drip rates

Unit 3: Fluids and Electrolytes

One of the most important parts of patient care is keeping the various body functions stable, known as homeostasis. Electrolyte and fluid balance plays the most significant role in controlling all body mechanisms. Understanding how to manage this requires knowledge of the various components of body fluids and what happens when they are out of balance. Together, we’ll explore these concepts so you can confidently deliver quality care.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the concept of fluid balance and homeostasis

• Compare and contrast the various intravenous solutions used to expand or decrease a patient’s fluid volume

• Identify the functions of these electrolytes: potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium and calcium

• Discuss the common disorders associated with electrolyte imbalances

• Explain the various components of blood and their administration intravenously

Unit 4: Medications that Affect the Peripheral Nervous System

When you think about the peripheral nervous system and learn about the medications that affect it, your thoughts may go to movement and sensation. While this is a great start, the medications that affect this system also impact heart rate, blood pressure, bladder control, and even the pressure in the eye. Comprehending this complex system begins with understanding what happens at the receptor level. Should we jump in?

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the functions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems

• Differentiate between different classifications of medications used to treat abnormalities of the peripheral nervous system

• Establish a method of study that will be used to support your learning of the various classifications of medications in this course

• Recognize the key information that must be included when learning about medication classifications

Unit 5: Medications That Affect the Central Nervous System

Take a minute to think about the various people in your life. Some are more organized than others, right? There is likely one person you know who can take several different things, coordinate them so they work well together, and then communicate them properly. Just like a conductor organizes a band, a football coach organizes the offense and defensive lines, and a travel agent organizes a multi-city trip, the central nervous system takes the information from the whole body and organizes it. So it makes sense that if one piece of information is mixed up or absent, the coordination of the body, band, football team, or vacation is disrupted. Here, we’ll learn about the medications that address issues with the central nervous system and ensure the coordination gets back on track.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the anatomy and physiology of the central nervous system

• Discuss the concept of pain

• Differentiate between different classifications of medications used to treat abnormalities of the central nervous system

• Support your learning of various classifications of medications using study tools

• Recognize the key information that describes the medications used for anesthesia, to control pain, and to treat seizures and mental health disorders

Unit 6: Medications that Affect the Cardiovascular System

Blood is constantly coursing through your body, pumped by your heart which works tirelessly day in and day out. It is therefore quite understandable that the health of the blood and the vessels it travels through, along with the health of the heart as a whole, is imperative to maintaining wellness. When lifestyle modifications and healthy living are insufficient or absent, medications to support some or all of these components of the cardiovascular system are necessary. Get ready to further explore this amazing system and how you can help keep it beating!

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system

• Discuss the electrical conduction system of the heart

• Explain hemostasis

• Differentiate between classifications of medications used to treat hypertension, heart failure, dysrhythmias, and alterations in coagulation

• Support your learning of the various classifications of medications using study tools

Unit 7: Medications that Affect the Respiratory System

Have you ever stopped to consider exactly what is happening every time you take a breath? Of course, we breathe in oxygen, which is required for all body processes. However, did you know that the exchange of gases required to facilitate the delivery of oxygen throughout the body can only occur when the respiratory system functions optimally? Here, we’ll learn about the medications that will optimize the function of the respiratory system and make sure that all patients can keep breathing easy.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the anatomy and physiology of the upper and lower respiratory systems

• Distinguish the differences between antihistamines and decongestants

• Differentiate between antitussives and expectorants

• Discuss the proper use of inhaled medications

• Support your learning of the various classifications of medications using study tools

Unit 8: Medications that Affect the Gastrointestinal and Genitourinary Systems

Sanitation and proper plumbing are crucial to keeping communities healthy – especially in large cities. Proper disposal of waste keeps streets clean and bacteria and vermin from running rampant. The gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems of the body act as the sanitation and plumbing services in our bodies. But, when these systems fail, pharmaceutical treatments can provide a backup to make sure that things continue to flow as usual to maintain homeostasis.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal and renal systems

• Distinguish the differences between the types of laxative medications

• Discuss the medications used to prevent and treat disorders of the stomach

• Distinguish the differences between the types of diuretic medications

• Support your learning of the various classifications of medications in this unit using study tools

When implemented with care, medicine can cure illnesses and even save lives, but when distributed incorrectly, therapeutics can cause great harm. In this course, you will delve deeper into the study of medicine and treatments available to patients. You will learn about available medications for specific diseases, the way therapeutics work in the body, different drug classifications, the law behind administering drugs, and what a Pharmacy career can look like. Are you ready to continue injecting your brain with essential knowledge for a career in the medical field? Let’s continue your journey of care.

Unit 1: Medications that Affect the Endocrine System

Do you know someone influential? Someone who walks into a room and can change the mood, the temperature, the type of music played? The endocrine system is to your body what that person would be to a party. The endocrine system works to regulate mood, tissue function, growth and development, and metabolism. When it comes down to it, the endocrine system is in charge. It speeds up or slows down the other body systems in order to maintain homeostasis. When the endocrine system is deficient, it can be optimized through the administration of the medications you’ll learn about here.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Establish a method of study that will support your learning of the various classifications of medications in this course, recognizing key information that must be included

• Explain the anatomy and physiology of the endocrine system

• Describe type 1 diabetes and the various types of medications used for treatment

• Investigate type 2 diabetes, along with the various types of medications used for treatment

• Discuss the medications that are used to treat disorders of the thyroid gland

Unit 2: Medications Used for Gender-Specific Health Issues

Unlike other body systems, the reproductive systems are not required to sustain the life of an individual. Still, they are necessary to produce and transfer the individual’s genes to their offspring. The glands and hormones of both the male and female reproductive systems also contribute to growth and development, emotional stability, and bone density. These body systems differ between males and females not only in their structure but in their function as well. Here, we will explore the medications that can be used to optimize the reproductive systems to promote or prevent conception, along with those used to improve the quality of life when these systems fail.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system

• Describe the various types of medications used to promote and prevent reproduction and those used to support women as they age

• Explain the anatomy and physiology of the male reproductive system

• Discuss the medications used to treat erectile dysfunction and illnesses that affect the prostate gland

Unit 3: Anti-infective Medications

When you hear about germs, what comes to your mind? You likely already know a bit about things like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. You probably understand that these microorganisms can cause great problems if they get into your body. But are these tiny organisms the same? How do they act once inside the human body? Let’s find out and then consider medications that will successfully fight them off so that the body is healthy once again.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain cellular structure and principles of microbiology

• Discuss the medications that are used to treat infections

• Describe the types of medications that are used to treat viruses

• Explain the difference between medications used to treat viruses and fungi

Unit 4: Medications Used to Treat Cancer

It’s likely that no matter which branch of medicine you decide to pursue, you will eventually come into contact with a patient who has a cancer diagnosis. Here, we’ll learn not only what cancer is and how it forms but also more about the most common types of cancer that you may run across. We’ll also consider the types of medications used to treat cancer and how they work to stem the spread of this disease in the body.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Illustrate how cancer occurs at the cellular level

• Describe the different types of malignancy

• Discuss cell-cycle-specific antineoplastic medications

• Explain the characteristics of cell-cycle non-specific medications

Unit 5: Medications for the Eyes, Ears, and Skin

What type of music do you enjoy? What type of movies? What type of fashion? Believe it or not, many of the things we enjoy experiencing in life rely on just three vital organs. Although we may take them for granted, our ears, eyes, and skin are complex organs. We rely on them to function properly to enjoy our lives. Here, we will review the structures of these organs and discuss medications that can be used to treat illnesses that might strike them.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Discuss the anatomy and physiology of the ears

• Describe the anatomy and physiology of the eyes

• Explain the medications used to treat illnesses of the eyes and ears

• Discuss the anatomy and physiology of the skin

• Describe various skin conditions and the medications used to treat them

Unit 6: Immunologic Medications, Medications for Weight Loss, and Nutritional Supplements

Have you ever felt that you were coming down with something? Maybe you’re suddenly tired, feeling warm or chilly, and notice that your nose is running. Most people are annoyed at the onset of these symptoms but they signal that the body is doing its job. It is working hard to protect us! But what if it can’t do that vital job? How can medications be used to help us feel our best all the time? What roles do a person’s diet and behavior play in helping their bodies function correctly? We’re about to find out.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the physiology of the immune system

• Explain the characteristics of medications used in immunostimulation and immunosuppression

• Discuss the medications used for weight loss

• Identify the nutritional needs of the body and the role of vitamin supplements in maintaining health

Unit 7: Careers in Pharmacy

Maybe the science of the body and its workings interests you, but the idea of dealing with bodily fluids turns you off from the idea of a career in health care. If that is the case, a career in pharmacy might be the best fit for you. Pharmacy professionals must understand how the body works naturally and how pharmaceuticals can be applied to help the body get back to homeostasis. Understanding which drugs are dangerous to combine as well as when and how to administer drugs are important skills for those who work in a pharmacy. Pharmacy is not all about pushing pills, though. The services that those who work in pharmacology render to the community include much more. Here, we’ll learn more about this unique field and what it takes to be a part of it.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Describe the various types of pharmacology and their purposes

• Explain the basic ideas and purpose of careers in pharmacoeconomics

• Compare and contrast different types of pharmacies

• Distinguish between various types of roles in the pharmacy

• Create a career plan to pursue a path in pharmacology

Unit 8: Legal and Ethical Issues in Pharmacology

You’ve learned about medications that affect all different parts of the human body, as well as how they work, how they are used, and their potential side effects. This knowledge is important in recognizing how powerful medications really are. Since they are so powerful and have the potential to greatly help or harm a patient, it makes sense that there are legal and ethical issues to consider when prescribing, dispensing, or administering medication. As a healthcare professional, you will endeavor to do what is best for your patient. Still, mistakes can happen. How do professionals in pharmacology balance ethical and legal issues while making sure that patients are given the correct medications with as few errors as possible? Let’s find out.

What will you learn in this unit?

• Explain the legal aspects of medication regulation

• Discuss ethical considerations related to medication administration

• Identify the potential areas for error in medication administration and the legal ramifications of these errors

• Demonstrate how pharmacy professionals work to ensure that medications are safely administrated to patients