Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology

• Main Author: Martini, Frederic (Author)
• Other Authors: Martini, Frederic H.
• Format: Book
• Language: English
• Published: New Jersey Prentice-Hall 2001; ©2001
• Edition: FIFTH EDITION
• Subjects: Human physiology; Human anatomy; Anatomy
• Online Access: Click Here to View Status and Holdings.

 When the First Edition of Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology was published in 1989, the options available for presenting, studying, and applying prin ciples of anatomy and physiology (A&P) were much more limited than they are today. Our knowledge base has also expanded tremendously. As we proceed into the new millennium, we know much more than ever before about the biochemical and molecular founda tions of many normal physiological processes, we un derstand the molecular origins of many diseases, and we are close to completing an initial survey of the human genome. This enhanced understanding has led to the development of effective new treatments, pro tocols, and interventions to combat disease, reduce suf fering, and promote good health. Many of these advances could not have been made if they were not preceded by improvements in the speed and reliabil ity of computers. Modern technology, especially com puters and the Internet, has changed our daily lives and is reshaping our societies in many ways. The emerging medical technologies allow us to per form complex surgical procedures on individual or gans or to target specific cells within an organ. We can manipulate the DNA within cells, and we can even clone genetically identical animals, although we are still unable to repair even the simplest genetic defect in humans. Many people are horrified by what we can now do with technology; others are intent on pushing ahead without a clear idea of the ultimate destination. Nevertheless, all of us are affected by modern tech nology. Technology has become a means for acquiring and distributing information, and medical profession als have learned to use technology to increase their effectiveness as well as to improve the quality of med ical care. By enhancing the availability of specific informa tion, modern technology has affected how each of us deals with information in general. In many cases, knowing where to look for information is preferable to trying to memorize specific data. That is certainly the trend in the training of medical and allied health pro fessionals today. Students begin by mastering the ter minology and memorizing a substantial core of basic conceptual information. In the process, they are also given (1) a "mental framework" for organizing new information, (2) the ability to access additional infor mation when needed, by consulting relevant print or electronic data sources, and (3) an understanding of how to apply their knowledge to solve particular problems.