CPR Class & First Aid Training

Chapter Two: Anatomy and Physiology

You don't need to be a doctor to understand anatomy and physiology. It is a very simple thing to learn. The important part is that there is no need to be technical. Understanding anatomy and physiology will help you with the process of administering first aid and CPR as well as to help you to provide good information to dispatchers, EMTs and Paramedics in the event that an ambulance is needed.

Difference Between Anatomy & Physiology
So what is the difference between anatomy and physiology? Anatomy is the layout of the body (i.e. arm, leg, foot, face, etc…). Physiology describes the processes of a bodily function (i.e. how food is digested, how cells grow and reproduce, how an injury affects the body, etc…).

Anatomy
It is important for you to know the basic anatomy that we are speaking about. It is generally a good idea if you can describe where the body part is that is hurting.

Physiology
As far as physiology is concerned the human body holds anywhere from 2-3 two liter bottles worth of blood total. For injuries you should be able to describe, to the best of your ability, how much blood a person has lost in the event of an injury. This is often hard to do because blood is made up mostly of water and evaporates quickly as does water. But, the fact that it is red also might make you think there is a bigger loss when there actually is not.

Be Observant
Injuries may also include broken or dislocated bones. It is acceptable to say that a bone doesn't look right or might look out of place. Compare injuries on arms and legs to the other unaffected arm or leg. And in the case of dual involvement, compare your own. If something doesn't look right, be sure to make a note of it and point it out to the EMTs.

Be a Detective
For illnesses, describe what has been going on with the person lately. What made them seek help or look like they needed help? Was it a breathing problem? Were they dizzy, nauseated, etc…? Were they speaking in an incoherent manner?

Be Specific in Descriptions
Remember that the more basic and specific you can be, the better. Be persistent too. Don't let healthcare providers brush aside your observations. Remember that you are taking a proactive step by helping the person. Again be persistent about your findings.

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