Biochemistry and Nursing Importance

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is biochemistry?

The study of the chemical substances found in living organisms and the chemical interactions of these substances with each other.

Which of the following terms is also referred to as physiological chemistry?

Analytical Chemistry

Biochemistry (correct)

Physical Chemistry

Organic Chemistry

All Earth organisms require liquid water.

True

What is homeostasis?

A dynamic state of equilibrium Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of homeostasis in humans?

Regulation of blood sugar via insulin, body temperature regulation, immune system functioning, blood pressure regulation, pH balance by lungs and kidneys. Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding biochemistry important for nurses?

It helps nurses care for patients by understanding chemical processes in the living cell. Signup and view all the answers

Homeostasis refers to any automatic process that a living thing uses to keep its body steady on the inside while continuing to adjust to conditions outside the body or in its ______.

environment Signup and view all the answers

What happens if the internal body temperature climbs too high?

The body sweats to cool off Signup and view all the answers

What is the central part of an atom called?

Nucleus Signup and view all the answers

What are the three fundamental subatomic particles?

Protons, Neutrons, Electrons Signup and view all the answers

Electrons have a positive charge.

False Signup and view all the answers

The number of protons in an atom is equal to its atomic ______.

number Signup and view all the answers

The mass number (A) is equal to the number of ______ plus the number of neutrons.

protons Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following particles is found outside the nucleus?

Electron Signup and view all the answers

What does the atomic number represent?

The number of protons in the nucleus. Signup and view all the answers

Neutrons have a charge.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the charge of a proton?

1+ Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Biochemistry

The study of the chemical and physical processes occurring in living organisms
Focuses on chemical substances in living organisms and their interactions
Also known as biological chemistry or physiological chemistry
Explores the molecular basis of life

Importance of Biochemistry in Nursing

Understanding biochemistry is crucial for nurses to understand normal body processes and identify disease-related alterations
Aids in providing effective medical treatment for patients
Helps nurses understand and care for patients with conditions like:
- Galactose intolerance
- Jaundice
- Amino acid metabolic disorders
- Diabetes mellitus

What Does Life Require?

Liquid water
Common set of biological molecules
Ability to maintain homeostasis
Capacity to evolve

Homeostasis

Describes a dynamic state of equilibrium in which internal conditions remain relatively stable
Maintains constant internal conditions regardless of external changes
Components:
- Receptor: Senses internal conditions
- Set point: Target value for internal conditions
- Control center: Processes information and sends instructions to effectors
- Effector: Makes changes to internal conditions
Examples in humans:
- Blood sugar regulation via insulin
- Body temperature regulation by the hypothalamus
- Immune system function
- Blood pressure regulation
- pH balance maintained by lungs and kidneys
- Regulation of breathing

Biochemistry and Homeostasis

Understanding normal and abnormal metabolite levels crucial for healthcare professionals
Supports maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance in patients
All organs and tissues work to maintain homeostasis
Disease conditions can disrupt homeostasis

Atomic Structure

The atom is the smallest unit of an element.
It consists of a central nucleus surrounded by electrons.
The nucleus contains protons and neutrons.
The nucleus is extremely small compared to the size of the atom but contains most of the atom's mass.
Protons:
- found in the nucleus
- carry a positive charge
- equal in magnitude to the electron's negative charge.
Neutrons:
- found in the nucleus
- carry no charge
- have a mass virtually the same as a proton.
Electrons:
- found outside the nucleus
- carry a negative charge.

Atomic Number

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus.
The atomic number determines the identity of an element.
The atomic number is the whole number given in each block of the Periodic Table.

Mass Number

The mass number is the sum of the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
Units are g/mol.
All atoms of a given element have the same number of protons, therefore the same atomic number.
Atoms of a given element can differ in the number of neutrons (isotopes) and mass number.

Nuclear Atomic Symbols

The atomic number (Z) represents the number of protons.
The mass number (A) represents the number of protons and neutrons.
The number of neutrons can be calculated by subtracting the atomic number from the mass number:
A = number of neutrons + number of protons.

Carbon Atom

Carbon atoms have 6 protons and 6 electrons.
The atomic number is usually omitted because it is always 6 for carbon atoms.
The mass number is a superscript on the left of the atomic symbol.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz explores the essential connections between biochemistry and nursing practices. It covers the chemical processes in living organisms and highlights the importance of understanding these concepts for effective patient care in various medical conditions. Test your knowledge on how biochemistry influences healthcare and nursing responsibilities.