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abdominal region
one of nine
equal areas of the abdomen that
are named and used as reference
points when discussing the body
anatomy
the physical structures
or parts of the body
body cavity
a hollow space
within the body that is lined by a
membrane and contains bodily
organs
body plane
a flat or level surface
seen by cutting away part of the
body through surgery or medical
imaging to serve as a point of
reference when discussing anatomy
body region
an area of the body
with a specific name, which is used
PROFESSIONAL VOCABULARY
You will need to learn the essential terms listed
below before you begin your reading. These terms
will help you understand the main concepts of the
chapter. These terms, which will be highlighted in yellow
within the text, will become part of your professional
vocabulary.
organ
a distinct body structure
made of different tissues working
together for the same purpose
organelle
a part of a cell that has
a specific task
physiology
the functions or inner
workings of the body
standard anatomical position
(SAP)
the agreed-upon reference
for body position when studying
anatomy; standing erect on two
legs, facing frontward, with the
arms at the sides and palms facing
forward
tissue
a group of cells of the
same type working together for the
same purpose
as a reference point when
discussing anatomy
body system
a group of organs
working together to perform a vital
function in the body
cell
a small group of organelles
that fulfill a specific purpose and are
held together by a membrane
medical terminology
special
vocabulary that is used in
healthcare and is often formed from
Latin and Greek word parts
mnemonic device
a learning
tool that helps students memorize
information
In addition to these essential terms, you will see
bold terms throughout the chapter. The meanings of
these terms are explained where the terms first appear.
The bold terms, like the essential terms listed here,
will become part of your professional vocabulary and
deepen your understanding of the topics presented.
CONNECT WITH YOUR READING
Before you read this chapter, organize the terms in the Maximize Your Professional Vocabulary list at
the end of the chapter into logical categories based on your current knowledge. Use arrows or circles to
show connections between related terms as needed. Share your newly organized list with a partner and
discuss the differences in how you organized the terms.
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