Foundational Systems Definitions
A system is a group of organs or functional collections of tissue that work together to the maintain homeostasis. A system does not work in isolation, and the well-being of the person depends upon the well being of all the interacting systems.
Behavioral System
The mental processes such as cognition, emotion, temperament, motivation; and behavioral interactions.
Cardiovascular System
The system composed of the heart and blood vessels.
Digestive System
The system composed of the organs stretching from the mouth to the anus, serving to breakdown foods, assimilate nutrients, and eliminate waste. Note: includes nutrition, liver, biliary tract and exocrine pancreas.
Endocrine System
The system composed of glands that release hormones directly into the circulatory system.
Hematopoietic and Lymphatic System
The system composed of organs and tissues that form blood and transport immune cells and lymph.
Immune System
The system composed of the body’s defense mechanism against foreign organisms or substances and deviant native cells.
Integument System
The system composed of the skin and skin appendages.
Musculoskeletal System
The system composed of the muscles, bones, and cartilage of the body.
Nervous System
The system composed of the brain, spinal cord, cranial and spinal nerves, autonomic ganglia, and plexuses. Note: includes special senses: visual, auditory and vestibular, olfactory, gustatory and sensory system.
Reproductive System
The system composed of the organs involved in reproduction. Note: includes mammary glands.
Respiratory System
The system composed of the tubular and cavernous organs and structures for pulmonary ventilation and gas exchange. Note: includes nose, paranasal sinuses and larynx.
Renal/Urinary System
The system composed of the organs involved in the formation and release of urine.
Sources
- Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
- Dorland’s Medical Dictionary
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary
- United States National Library of Medicine – Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)