Free EMT Prep · Module 3 of 6

Anatomy & Physiology Foundations

Connect major body systems with the observations and vital signs EMT students will encounter.

Foundation only

This module prepares you to enter an approved EMT course. It does not provide certification, course credit, local protocols, or authorization to perform EMS skills.

3

Build anatomy and physiology foundations

Anatomy is structure. Physiology is function. EMT school will connect both to what you see, hear, feel, and measure.

Respiratory

Moves air and supports oxygen and carbon-dioxide exchange.

Know: airway, lungs, diaphragm, ventilation, oxygenation.

Cardiovascular

Circulates blood to transport oxygen, nutrients, heat, and waste.

Know: heart, arteries, veins, capillaries, perfusion.

Nervous

Controls consciousness, sensation, movement, and many automatic body functions.

Know: brain, spinal cord, nerves, mental status.

Musculoskeletal

Provides structure, movement, protection, and support.

Know: bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments.

Integumentary

The skin protects the body and helps regulate temperature and fluid loss.

Know: color, temperature, moisture, wounds, burns.

Digestive

Breaks down food and absorbs nutrients and fluids.

Know: mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver.

Endocrine

Uses hormones to regulate metabolism, glucose, stress responses, and other functions.

Know: pancreas, insulin, glucose, adrenal response.

Urinary

Filters blood, removes waste, and helps control fluid and electrolyte balance.

Know: kidneys, ureters, bladder, urine output.

A useful pre-course question

For each body system, ask: What is its main job, and what might I observe if that job is not working well? Do not try to diagnose every disease before your course teaches you how to assess patients safely.