Expanded Topics

The Endocrine System Tutorial

Unit 1: Definition of the Endocrine System

Unit 1 provides a definition of the endocrine system and an explanation of the difference between exocrine and endocrine glands, the work of the endocrine system and pathology that may affect the endocrine system.

Unit 2: Functions of the Endocrine System

Unit 2 covers the four main functions of the endocrine system: hormone synthesis and storage, hormone activity and transport, hormone secretion and regulation, and hormone receptor activation. The unit is organized as follows:

Hormone Synthesis:
Covers the classification of amines, proteins, and steroids.
Hormone Activity and Transport:
Includes action of local and circulating hormones, and transport of hormones in the blood.
Hormone Secretion and Regulation:
Describes positive and negative feedback systems, the role of the hypothalamus in hormone secretion, and cyclical patterns of hormone release.
Hormone Receptor Activation:
Includes mechanisms for changing cell function.

Unit 3: The Glands and organs of the Endocrine System

This unit covers the role and function of the glands and organs of the endocrine system. Glands and organs include: pituitary, pineal, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, hypothalamus, thymus, pancreas, ovaries and testes.

Clinical applications are presented which provide an overview of select endocrine pathologies with corresponding treatment and nursing interventions.

Nursing assessment for a client with a potential endocrine disorder is discussed. Video clips and animation are used throughout this section for a comprehensive view of the roles these structures play.

Unit 4: Factors Affecting Endocrine Efficiency

The last tutorial unit covers factors that can affect the function of a person’s endocrine system. The following three factors are considered in this section: aging, acute conditions, and chronic conditions.

Unit 5: Self Test

This unit consists of a test bank of 25 items. The test bank questions were designed to address all levels of difficulty. Knowledge and comprehension questions are used to ensure the student has mastered the necessary foundation. Application and analysis questions are used to test the student's ability to apply the information to client situations.

Immediately after answering a question, the student is given the rationale for both correct and incorrect answers. This feedback is helpful in correcting any misunderstandings the student may have.

After taking the test, the student may print out the results. Feedback containing the questions answered incorrectly along with rationales is provided.

The questions contained in the self test are included in hard copy in Chapter 6 of this manual. You may use these questions when preparing your own classroom tests.

Because this is a "self test", students may exit the test bank at any time.

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