You need to review several organ systems for the EMT exam. Each is comprised of a series of organs and structures, which in turn has a unique series of functions. As an EMT, you should be knowledgeable about a few structures. Here’s an overview of each system. You may want to take a moment to review them now.
| System | Major Organs and Structures | Main Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Nervous | Brain, spinal cord, nerves | Fast, short-acting control system Conscious thought |
| Gastrointestinal | Mouth, teeth, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, appendix, rectum, anus | Digestion — break down food and absorb nutrients Absorb water Excrete unused food components and unwanted solid waste products |
| Immune | Thymus, bone marrow | Protection from foreign substances and organisms, such as allergens and infections |
| Endocrine | Pancreas, ovaries, testes | Slow, long-acting control system |
| Hematologic | Red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), platelets, plasma | Carry oxygen and nutrients to cells and remove carbon dioxide and waste |
| Urinary | Kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra | Regulate water balance Excrete unwanted liquid wastes |
| Reproductive | Male: Testes, urethra, penisFemale: Ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina, mammary glands | Reproduction (sperm production for males; egg development, ovulation, and pregnancy for females)Secondary sex characteristics (deeper voice, greater muscle growth for males; breast development, higher voice for females) |
