Students must understand how the digestive system is organized and functions in order to properly transfer nutrients into the bloodstream. This topic includes hormones that help regulate digestive function. There can be an imbalance in digestive function; therefore, students need to understand the pathophysiology of diseases or conditions that can negatively impact those they are working with.
Objectives:
- Describe the physiology of mastication and swallowing.
- Describe the role of the salivary gland secretions and lingual lipase in the digestive process.
- Describe the role of peristalsis and segmentation in the digestive tract.
- Describe the neuronal and hormonal control of gastric secretion and motility.
- Describe the cephalic, gastric, and intestinal phases of digestion.
- Explain the role of the small and large intestine in digestion and absorption.
- Explain the function of the pancreas and liver.
- Describe the function of the gallbladder and bile.