The most essential benefit to having one or more options with regards to digestive system models in a physician's office or clinical setting is that patients can actually see the digestive system. Full models will include everything from the mouth and nose area through the entire system, providing a full picture of the complete digestive process. The doctor, nurse or health professional can use digestive system models to demonstrate to the patient how a problem or health issue anywhere along the gastro intestinal tract can result in pains, health problems and digestive disorders.

Often the complexity of the digestive system and all the different associated parts are not included in all brain anatomy models. Models that provide components including the liver, spleen, pancreas and the gall bladder provide the most comprehensive view of the internal workings of the digestive system.

Are there any types of digestive system models that show disease problems within the GI tract or the stomach?

For doctors consulting with patients and teachers working with students, models that show both a healthy stomach and digestive tract as well as disease conditions are important considerations for selecting digestive system models. These digestive system models include depictions of ulcers in the stomach as well as health related issues in the esophagus.

The ulcerated digestive system models include minor enteritis types of lesions and pathology up to full perforation and bleeding types of ulcers. Gastritis is also depicted in these types of stomach digestive system models. For the esophagus model diseases commonly presented include acid reflux, carcinoma, hernia and ulcers. These models are mounted on a base and have either two parts or a lengthwise section, clearly showing the symptoms of both the conditions as well as the possible scarring or healing of the different diseases.

For classroom work two part stomach digestive system models give students a look into the tissue and structure of the stomach in a lifelike and authentic way. Major nerves and blood vessels are also provided for both the external and internal views of these types of digestive system models. How much space do digestive system models take up in an office or classroom?

Unlike larger full skeletal models, digestive system models tend to be smaller, typically weighing less than 5 pounds, unless the full digestive system models are used which are just under 10 pounds. They are usually mounted on a stand for easy storage and display, and they are convenient for storing on bookcases or in medical supply cabinets or other storage facilities. For classrooms they are ideal for use on lab counters or on display shelves around the room. Since they are so lightweight they are also easy for students to use at their particular desk or station. The durable plastic material the digestive system models are made of stand up well to multiple types of uses and the colors and details stay vibrate for many years.

There are as many different types of brain anatomy models as there are teaching activities that have to do with the brain. There are really no right or wrong brain anatomy models; it is just a matter of how detailed and exact you want the training to be. For basic classes brain anatomy models that feature the major brain components in easy to identify, color coded types of representations are the basics. For more advanced students and study the use of brain anatomy models that include fluid flow patterns, major blood vessels and brain systems as well as the details of the brain stem and cervical vertebrae are also important. What types of classes or students use brain anatomy models?

Since the brain is the control center of the body, almost any type of medical class, human biology, physiology or dentistry class will need to have some knowledge of the function and structure of brain parts. Classes that include therapy, trauma and injury management and rehabilitation will also benefit from brain anatomy models that help the students to understand how nerve damage, blood flow and even neck and back injuries or brain injury can lead to other corresponding health concerns and symptoms.

Using the more advanced types of brain anatomy models that clearly show, in larger than life sizes, the various structures of the brain are ideal for larger groups. Life sized brain anatomy models are great for individual study, so combining the two types for both individual review and large group study is highly recommended. Transparent sections in brain anatomy models that allow students to see into the various sections of the brain in relation to the outside structures of the face and head is also an important part of most types of teaching and learning. Why are some brain anatomy models on a base and some are not?

Brain anatomy models that are permanently mounted on a base are good for large group demonstration but also for individual study. The permanent base on these brain anatomy models gives a fixed point of study, plus it provides the students with an accurate representation with regards to the physical location of the brain parts within the skull. This can be very important when the cervical vertebrae are also included in the brain anatomy models as the spinal column of the neck often forms the base for the model.

Brain anatomy models that aren't found on a base are good for students or patients to be able to move and manipulate the brain or to look at highly specialized internal elements or parts of the brain. In some cases the brain may be mounted on a base but may also be completely removable, providing the opportunity for spatial relationship of the brain structures and the head as well as up close, individual study of the various brain parts. Selecting one of these types of brain anatomy models may provide several teachable options for both students and patient consultation.

There are several different advantages in using disarticulated anatomical skeleton models in teaching environments. The most obvious advantage is that they really provide a hands-on opportunity for students to study each different bone in the body without having to deal with the complete skeletal structure. Disarticulated anatomical skeleton models also provide the opportunity for students to work in memorizing how the skeleton goes together, since they can actually lay out the entire half or full skeleton from the individual bones. This is a great learning activity and tests the student's understanding of the skeletal structure.

For the very complex bone structures such as those found in the hands and feet, the disarticulated anatomical skeleton models offer one already fully assembled and wired together. This visual helps students learn the complex formation of these structures within the body by comparing the assembled and disarticulated parts. With limited space in a teaching classroom or patient consultation room, are anatomical skeleton models really practical?

Surprisingly the anatomical skeleton models on the market today are very compact and require very little in the way of storage space. Although the full sized skeletons are typically about 6 feet tall, including the roller stand, they are not much bigger in diameter than the average chair. They can easily be stored in a corner or in a larger closet or even a small storage room. Dust covers can be used to keep the skeleton clean and out of sight when not in use.

Other options for space saving include using a disarticulated skeleton that comes in a handy storage box. This makes the lightweight skeleton easy to store and stack for lab or classroom work with multiple anatomical skeleton models. In addition mini models that are approximately 3 feet in height are perfect for countertop demonstrations, lab work and for patient consultation, even in very small exam rooms or study areas.

What options should be considered when selecting anatomical skeleton models?

The more options that are included in the anatomical skeleton models you select the more flexible and creative your lessons or patient consultations can be. Some models offer color coding for muscles, ligaments and even major blood vessels and nerves. Other models offer options such as increasing flexibility of the spine with full range of moment, skulls that are sections to be divided for studying the internal structure of the skull, removable teeth and even limbs that easily disconnect from the skeleton for intensive study. Options of how the skeleton is mounted on the roller stand are also an important consideration. Head mounted anatomical skeleton models offer lots of movement in the lower body, while the pelvic mounted anatomical skeleton models provide movement along the spine.

Orthopaedic anatomical skeleton models that show the major soft tissue as well as muscles, nerves and ligaments are essential in studying the connections of the muscles and the skeletal system in the major joints of the body. This is essential for most medical, sports injury and chiropractic types of training, plus is very helpful in patient consultation.

The very latest in technology when it comes to recreating castes and replications of the finest structures in the skull allows an amazing amount of detail in the newest anatomical skull models. The very crevices, ridges and small protrusion of the interior and exterior parts of the skull and jawbone can be easily seen in lifelike quality, as if studying an actual human skull. The newer types of anatomical skull models are also very light weight, however they do have the coloration and texture of actual human bone, providing a very accurate presentation for a student or patient to examine. There are different levels of detail to choose from when selecting anatomical skull models. It may not always be important to have the very finest details, however in most teaching situations the more accurate the model the more effective the teaching and learning will be. Is it possible to have the cervical bones and dental aspects included in anatomical skull models? There are several different types of anatomical skull models that include both the cervical vertebrae as well as different aspects of the dental structure of the upper and lower jaws. Since this information is important to more than just medical students, these models are popular with dental students, physical therapy students, chiropractor trainings and other technician type trainings. Including more than just the skull allows students and others to understand how different injuries or issues within the jaw or the spine could result in other health issues that may not, at least at first glance, seem to be related physiologically. For teaching or patient consultation options most skulls come with color coding with regards to the major areas of the brain as well as blood flow through major vessels and color coding of the major nerves. Some skull models also have model brains contained within the skull, perfect for understanding and viewing both the internal and external anatomical skull models. What are the best options for anatomical skull models for teaching at a more advanced level than a basic skull model? Basic skull models are typically just the skull and may include the skull dividing into two or four parts, depending on the specific description for those types of anatomical skull models. For more advanced types of training or consultation with patients a good option is one of the didactic anatomical skull models. These models have one part of the skull, usually the left side, fully covered in the skull, looking very much like a traditional model. The right side, however, may be fully transparent on the skull section, allowing the student or patient to see under the bones to the actual parts of the brain. In addition the major blood vessels and nerves are also color coded inside the transparent brain section for easy identification and viewing. Typically the didactic models can also be disassembled to show the inner or central brain parts and sections. Each of these anatomical skull models will offer different features and options, however they all provide a very detailed look into the human brain.

There are several different types of procedures that are made much easier by the use of a proper style of hospital chair. Perhaps the most common type of hospital chair that is always in use in clinics, hospitals and labs in the phlebotomy chair. This specialized hospital chair is specially designed to make blood collection easy for the technician as well as the patient. Another very specialize type of hospital chair is the podiatry chair. This chair typically is very easily adjusted to a low level for easy patient access, then is raised with an electronic motor to a comfortable position for examination. Other options on a podiatry chair include a range of reclining positions as well as lower leg elevations and additional leg rests for patients that are taller. Debris trays that attach to the footrest area provide additional working area for the doctor and staff. Emergency transportation is another important consideration in styles of hospital chairs. These lightweight types of secure chairs have wheels on the back legs and standard legs on the front, making them both mobile but also very stable. Ideal for moving patients short distances under emergency conditions these chairs are also a good option for businesses, airports and other public places where emergency evacuation may be needed. What are the basic features that are important in a blood drawing chair? Since blood drawing chairs are used so often it is important to find a hospital chair that works both for the patients as well as for the technician. One important feature for blood drawing or phlebotomy chairs is that they have enough options for adjustment to ensure that the patient's arm is connected in the correct position. A fully rotating arm rest for either right, left of both sides is important, and it should also be adjustable either up or down. This will allow the technician to comfortably set the arm rest position for tall or smaller people. A storage bin or compartment on this type of hospital chair is also important for storing any type of essential equipment and materials. Even patient information sheets can be kept secure and out of the way within these compartment. Easy clean up and disinfecting will be essential with these chairs. Molded plastic seats or vinyl padding on the seats makes sterilization very simple. All surfaces should be durable and smooth for easy clean up. Are there additional features that come with some of the hospital chair styles? Most hospital chair styles have a variety of additional features. Extra seats and cushions can be provided to make the chair comfortable for smaller adults or even children. Headrests and back supports are also important in both reclining and stationary types of hospital chair styles. Additional leg supports are optional on many chairs. Other key add-ons to hospital chair styles will depend on the type of chair. IV pole brackets are very important on many chairs, as are straps to secure the patient if the chair can double as a transport chair.

ENT chairs are used in many different medical settings including dental offices and doctors that specialize in ophthalmology and otolaryngology. These chairs have a manual option to move the leg position and the back position to the exact incline that is needed for examination, but the lift option is can be controlled by either an electric motor or an air cylinder and foot pump option. These chairs are designed for both patient comfort as well as for physician access to the patient. ENT chairs are typically one of the most common medical chairs found in most dental examination rooms since they are very sturdy, easy to manage and position as well as very easy to clean and sterilize between patients. Optional headrests and additional leg supports are also available for many models. What features are essential in medical chairs for patient examination rooms? Since patients admitted to examination rooms may need to be immediately transported to other areas of the hospital, especially in emergency room admitting situations, an important option to consider is mobility. Many of the medical chairs used in emergency room settings can fully recline into a flat or even elevated leg position known as a trendelenburg position. This allows the chair to effectively also serve a dual purpose as an examination table and mobile bed if necessary. Finding medical chairs that have solid wheel and support construction to handle patients of typical weight ranges is essential. Many medical chairs are rated to handle up to 1000 pounds of weight, ideal for even larger patients. In addition locking mechanisms on the wheels are essential to prevent the chair from moving when not in the transport position. Pull out leg rests that extend the length of medical chairs when in the reclining position provide more security and comfort for the patient. Sleeping wedges, which are very similar to custom pillows, fit within the head space of the chair, adding again to the patients comfort and ability to relax during examination or while waiting. Anther option is to consider medical chairs that can lower fully to a standard seated position. This will allow patients that are in wheelchairs to easily transfer from the wheelchair to the examination chair without additional stress or assistance. These chairs are typically motorize to raise back up to a suitable level for examination. What are standard sizes for medical chairs? Having medical chairs that will suit an average sized adult as well as larger patients is essential in any medical clinic, doctor's office or hospital. Most standard seat sizes range between 17 and 30 inches, however there are oversized chair seats that will include seat widths of 35 inches. Having at least one larger sized chair is important for patient dignity and comfort, plus these larger sized chairs are also handy for people that may have difficulty with mobility and getting into and out of the seated position.

The answer to this question really depends on the size of the chart storage cart. There are smaller, more lightweight plastic carts that can hold as few as 10 binders to the much more heavy duty chart storage carts that can hold up to 36 three inch binders. Selecting the right sized cart is really a function of what and how you will be using the cart for. For rounds the smaller cart is very light and easy to maneuver even in small hospital rooms and patient examination areas. The larger, heavier styles of chart storage carts are perfect for use in therapy rooms, doctors offices or conference and meeting rooms where larger numbers of charts may need to be reviewed in the same area. What options are available for chart storage charts that should be considered before a purchase?

As mentioned above there are several different uses for chart storage carts and the most important options really depend on what the intended use is for the cart. For those that are looking for chart storage carts to complete patient rounds, the smaller, lightweight plastic cards are both durable and practical. In addition these carts can be accessed from either side, making it easy to retrieve and replace binders as necessary. The larger sized chart storage carts that may be kept in an office or meeting room can be equipped with a locking front, ideal for keeping patient records out of sight and away from access by unauthorized individuals. In addition these chart storage carts are designed with beautiful wood look surfaces and black metal frames, blending completely into the office furnishings. Since these chart storage carts are also fully enclosed they are great for transporting charts between buildings or within areas of a building. Charts are kept safe and secure the entire transit time. How are the charts secured onto the carts to avoid the charts from falling when the cart is in motion? Each shelf has a raised lip that works to prevent the charts from sliding off one side of the cart if it is not a chart storage cart model with an enclosed surface area. There is also a rubberized surface on each shelf that helps to hold the binders securely in place on the cart. Finally for added stability the shelves each have wire dividers that work like racks to hold the binders in place and prevent them from swaying back and forth when the cart is in motion. Pay close attention to the castors and wheels when purchasing a chart storage cart. The best wheels will be easy to swivel and will operate smoothly on both hard surfaces like linoleum or tile as well as carpeted surfaces. If the wheels turn smoothly and swivel there is less likelihood of the cart hanging up when transitioning from one surface to another, which can cause materials to spill from the shelves if the stop is sudden.

Medication carts are designed to allow nurses and health care staff to pre-sort medication by patient or by medication type, allowing for easy administration of the meds to the patients. Typically in medication carts each row or series of bins is a separate cassette which can be removed from the cart in one easy block and exchanged with another cassette in the cart. Bins in a cart can range from 20 to up to 36 or more bins. The larger the number of bins the smaller each bin will be on most carts. This allows the health care professional setting up the cart to organize the cassettes in order of administering the medication. This organization allows the nurse to simply pull out an empty top cassette and exchange it with a lower level full cassette that is set up in order for the next patients. With one simple exchange excessive bending over and ducking down to check medication bins on lower levels of the cart is completely eliminated. Less mistakes, more efficiency and greater freedom for the staff is achieved with this simple option. What are additional features to consider on medication carts? Different medication carts offer different features that may be very important in specific health care settings. One option that many carts offer is a side compartment or end compartment that is separate from the cassettes and medication bins. This storage compartment can be used to hold general equipment, patient information, first aid equipment or any other necessities that may be required. A pull out side tray is an additional feature that can really come in handy. This tray slides in under the top, allowing for additional space for the nurse or staff to have access to when using the cart. Some medication carts have an additional pull out drawer under the top as well for smaller storage. Railings around the top of the medication carts are helpful to keep items on the top of the cart when the cart is in motion. This can also be helpful if other equipment is required during the med round. Are there accessories available for medication carts? Some great additional features that are optional on many medication carts include items such as paper cup dispensers. These simple holders clip or are mounted onto the side of the cart, preventing the need to balance cups on the top or store inside the cart itself. Locking drawers for narcotics will be essential to be in compliance with medication administration requirements. Drawers that lock on closure are a great accessory or additional feature that prevents the staff from having to manually lock the drawer each time it is closed. Keyed access prevents issues with narcotics being removed from the cart by unauthorized individuals. Scanners to record narcotics and other medications removed from the cart for electronic record keeping are also an important feature to consider. Since many hospitals and clinics have gone to fully electronic records, these scanners cut down on inventory counting and manual data entry.

In any type of hospital, extended care or health care facility keeping linens and room essentials clean and orderly is very important. Both covered and open linen carts are able to organize materials on shelves, in bins or in compartments for easy storage. The major benefit to a covered linen cart is that the cover also acts to eliminate accidental spills, debris and dust from coming in contact with the clean linens on the cart. Covered carts also are ideal for transporting linens through non-patient areas to and from the laundry facilities. In multi-building facilities covered linen carts also protect the clean supplies from rain or dust while being moved between buildings. In addition covered linen carts may help in decreasing losses from the carts since linens and other objects will not be view and will not be able to drop from the cart while the cart is in transport. What color options are available with a linen cart? Different manufacturers provide different options for linen cart covers. Generally most covers will be made of a fine mesh material or a more solid material and will come in a wide range of colors. Vinyl linen cart covers are both durable and sturdy, plus they are easy to clean in the event of spills or dirt on the cover. Common colors for most companies include various shades of blues, greens, mauves and reds as well as traditional hospital colors such as beige and neutral tones. The linen cart covers should be easy to remove for washing and cleaning, plus they should also be available from the company as replacements in the event they become damaged. What size are most linen cart models? There are many different sizes of linen carts and which one is the best match for each facility depends on several factors. The number of patient rooms in a particular facility as well as the types of linens transported will all be an important factor. Other issues with regards to size may include the space available to store the carts and the size of elevators and doorways through which the linen cart may have to move. Smaller carts are often made of lightweight but very durable PCV pipe. These styles typically have between two and four shelves and may be two to four shelves in height. Each shelf in these lightweight linen carts will hold approximately 50 pounds, plus each shelf can also be adjusted to provide just the height required. These carts can be used for both storage and transportation of linens and are a great addition to any facility. Heavier duty carts that are made of aluminum or chrome may be able to carry up to 2000 pounds without any difficulty. These carts are typically covered and come with several shelves that can also be adjusted. Different widths from 24 inches to wider 30 or more inches are available in both the aluminum, chrome and plastic models.

There are several features that make rolling laundry carts more or less efficient within a hospital or health care facility. Perhaps the most important issue is the size of the cart itself. Rolling laundry carts that are very small will require multiple changes of liners or returns to the laundry facility, ending up in additional time and material costs.

Rolling laundry carts that are too large, on the other hand, may be awkward to maneuver in patient rooms, common areas and corridors. Finding the right size to hold laundry without being impossible to safely and easily move is perhaps the most important feature.

Easy cleaning and sterilization is also an issue with rolling laundry carts. Chrome finishes, aluminum and durable types of hard plastic are all good options. They can be treated with any disinfectant without discoloration, plus they are easy to and very quick to wipe down between uses.

What safety features should be considered when selecting rolling laundry carts?

Safety is going to be an important consideration in any hospital or health care facility. Although rolling laundry carts are not going to be constantly in patient rooms and common areas, making sure that some basic safety features are present is important.

Always check to make sure that rolling laundry carts have the option to lock the wheels to prevent the cart from moving when laundry is being loaded or unloaded. This prevents the cart from literally pushing into patient's beds or other furniture within a room. Specialized recessed handles are also an important consideration as they prevent any sharp or protruding objects from the cart itself. This will prevent or eliminate the concern of catching medical equipment with the handles when the cart is being turned or moved through crowded spaces. Handles on both ends to allow staff to easy maneuver the cart even in very confined or one-way type spaces is also an important safety consideration.

How heavy of a load can rolling laundry carts carry?

The amount of weight that rolling laundry carts are approved or guaranteed to be able to carry should be clearly stated within the specifications listed from the manufacturer. Some of the very heavy duty aluminum carts can carry up to 2000 pounds, certainly more than most staff would ever anticipate having to move. Lighter weight plastic rolling laundry carts may only be guaranteed for a few hundred pounds while the chrome laundry carts with the cage type mesh may be approved for up to 1200 pounds of load.

Some rolling laundry carts may have additional sections for storage of cleaning supplies or other essentials. These carts are often considered to be utility carts and are often the best option for smaller facilities that may not require specialized carts for every task. As with rolling laundry carts, utility carts come in a variety of styles and prices. Considering your needs and the uses you may have for the utility style cart before buying is important to ensure you get just what is needed.

One of the biggest drawbacks to having a full sized human anatomy model is that they do take up space. Since often doctor's offices, training classrooms and even patient rooms are economical in their size and are designed to just hold the necessary equipment, storage and transporting the model can be a problem.

Finding a human anatomy model that is mounted on a stable and secure set of rollers is the best option for transportation if you want the model to be used in the traditional fashion. It can either be mounted from the head, allowing for easy movement of all limbs or it can be mounted to the stand from the pelvis. Pelvic mounts allow the human anatomy model to be positioned differently than the head mount option since the back can be flexed to either side. The model can also incline or recline backwards from the pelvis, more typically of natural back movement. Often these types of human anatomy models are ideal for chiropractors and therapy offices. Dust covers can be purchased for either option, keeping dust and debris from gathering on the human anatomy model when it isn't in use. These covers are also very handy when transporting the model since they protect it from scuffing and banging as it is rolled to and from different rooms and locations.

What are disarticulated human anatomy models typically used for?

A disarticulated human anatomy model is either a full or partial reproduction of a skeleton that is not put together but rather is sectioned and stored within a convenient storage box. Each part of the skeleton is numbered or labeled for easy identification and study.

These disarticulated skeletons, either full or part, are great for teaching and discussion. Each particular bone can be examined both in isolation as well as within the context of bone connections and joints. Many of the disarticulated human anatomy models also have color coding to indicate where muscles originate and attach, perfect for any basic or advanced type of human anatomy class or study.

What are anthropological and human skulls used for? Anthropological skulls are one unique type of human anatomy model that are typically used in historical studies. Each one of the skulls is an accurate and life sized reproduction of ancient human and evolutionary developments stages. The importance of these skulls for scientific research is that the researchers don't have to have the actual original, they can use the exact replica models for research and study.

Modern human anatomy models of the skull are generally used for teaching and patient information. These skulls come in many different designs from a simple two part skull through to very detailed multi-part skulls that are used in medical classes to teach brain anatomy and function.

As with any type of human anatomy model the skull models offer several different features. Color coding, lifelike movement of the mandible, and removable brain components all provide a lifelike replica of the brain for classroom study and teaching.

Choosing the right size for a human anatomy chart for your office, classroom or patient examination area is largely a function of the wall space or actual display area that you have. Most human anatomy charts will be standard poster sized which is typically 20 by 26 inches or 50 by 67 cm. Some may be slightly larger if they are framed or otherwise permanently mounted to the wall. There are also a number of options for slightly smaller versions that measure 18 by 25 inches. Other options include spiral bound human anatomy chart books that come with several different charts in easy to transport, store and handle format. These spiral bound booklets are usually about 11 by 14 inches in size and have a pop out type stand for displaying the charts on a desk, shelf or other type of flat surface. When not in use the booklets can be stored flat or book style on a shelf for easy out of the way storage.

If I work with non-English speaking patients, what options do I have for displaying and using a human anatomy chart?

Most of the major human anatomy chart manufacturing companies offer several different options for charts. One option for those physicians, clinics and hospitals with Spanish speaking patients is to provide either English/Spanish labeled charts or to have one of each on display. English and Spanish on the same chart may make the discussion much easier, regardless of the first language of either the doctor or the patient.

Color coding charts and three dimensional charts are also a good way to be able to visually show patients any possible health concerns, even if there are some language barriers present. Since most hospitals and clinics will also have access to translators, even if they are not familiar with all the clinical and medical terms the dual language charts can be of assistance in translating even detailed medical information.

What types of specialized human anatomy chart options are available?

One of the most popular human anatomy charts used to show non-traditional types of information is the series of charts that depict information on acupuncture. Fast becoming an important alternative medicine and even used in some traditional styles of treatment, acupuncture charts provide a wealth of information to patients.

These types of charts typically display the human body complete with all the different acupuncture points and what aliments and conditions they are beneficial in treating. In addition these charts also typically list both the Chinese and English name for the acupuncture point and the different treatments.

Human anatomy charts that detail specific body systems are also important. These very detailed types of charts can provide the level of specificity needed for doctors and health professionals working in specific fields of study. Charts of the spine, wrist, foot and the major joints and muscle systems in the body are very helpful in most offices. Human anatomy chart options that include nervous and major blood vessels may also be essential depending on the type of office and the patients that are being treated.

The anatomical chart that seems to be strategically located in almost every patient examination room can certainly be an asset to a doctor when describing any type of skeletal, nervous, muscle or body system condition or disorder to a patient. Since medical terms and medical language is often outside the scope of the average person's understanding, using the chart as a reference point can help the patient clearly understand what the doctor is saying without having to ask for definitions and additional information.

Anatomical charts can also be a terrific way to explain to children about health conditions in a much less threatening way. Since many children and adults are visual learners, allowing them or encouraging them to actually see what the physician is talking about is a great resource that is often not used enough.

What specific features on anatomical charts make them easy to read and understand?

Perhaps the most obvious answer to this question is that any type of color coding or three dimensional aspect of anatomical charts will make them easier for both medical staff as well as patients and students to read and follow along. Three dimensional charts allow specific parts or systems on the chart to really stand out from the background. Generally the three dimensional aspects include the nervous system, muscular system and the skeleton, with each respective part being elevated above the general body diagram.

Other options to look for in anatomical charts include durable, laminated or plastic surfaces that allow for easy handling. Charts that are lightweight and flimsy will not only have to be replaced much more frequently but they typically won't be three dimensional or easy to see and follow. Grommets or rivets pre-set into the anatomical charts make them easy to take on and off of the wall, plus they also help the poster to hang straight and level against the wall. Charts may also come with translations, particularly into Spanish. These charts are perfect for patient areas where English may not the be the first language of some or most of the patients. Charts with both English and Spanish are great for both languages and prevent having to duplicate the posters on the wall.

How detailed do some anatomical charts actually get? Anatomical charts come in several different formats from very basic with just the major body components, muscle groups and nervous system parts through to very detailed and highly defined. Generally for most physician's offices and examination rooms the general charts are sufficient for most discussions and explanations.

For individuals that want very specific types of charts with highly detailed and individualized drawings of different components of each system these options are also available. Typically these types of anatomical charts have a smaller overall general drawing of the human body or specific system, then larger, expanded drawings and labels of each component of the system. These charts are very handy for references for working with patients and they are also great for lecture rooms and classrooms as well.

Generally life sized or full sized human anatomical models of the whole body or the specific systems within the body are most commonly used in teaching hospitals and lecture type situations. However in some physician's offices where spinal injuries and skeletal health concerns are the focus, having a life sized anatomical model of the body can be very helpful.

Choosing either a pelvic mounted or head mounted anatomical model is an important consideration. The pelvic mount does allow for more precise and clear demonstration of how the spine moves and flexes, along with how that impacts on the rest of the skeletal structure. A head mount anatomical model can be easier to work on with lower body skeletal issues.

Miniature or mini anatomical models are about half the size of full sized options and are easy to keep in examination rooms and offices. They may also be ideal for classroom situations, especially if you want to have several for students to work with. It may also be an option to have at least one full sized and one miniature, allowing the greatest flexibility for your teaching and patient care needs.

Are there options for smaller, individual systems models?

There are many situations when a full sized or even a miniature anatomical model is just not practical or isn't specific enough. For these types of occasions there are very unique and specific types of anatomical models that focus in on only one system within the human body. The brain and the digestive system are commonly used in doctor's offices but also in teaching programs for those in general sciences or specific medical classes.

Smaller anatomical models of the teeth, mouth and jaws as well as the brain and the skull are very popular for dentist's offices, teaching classrooms as well as anthropology departments. The skull models are particularly unique as they featured different anthropological skull discoveries in life sized and perfect detailed options.

What details are typically found on different types of human anatomical models?

There are two different options when selecting a human anatomical model. These include the models fully assembled and mounted or those that are disarticulated or come disassembled for easy handling and viewing. These disarticulated skeletons generally are either full or half skeletons and come labeled and numbered for easy identification of structures. Hands and feet may be wired together or one wired and one disarticulated for easy study and comparison. Other options for anatomical models include color coding or painting of half of the side of the skeleton to indicate where muscles attach and originate. This is important for both students as well as doctors to be able to use.

Specialized orthopedic skeletons and anatomical models are ideal for chiropractors, doctors and teaching facilities. These skeletons also show the soft muscle tissues, ligaments and major nerves and blood vessels. This level of detail helps both students and patients understand how the body system works as well as how skeletal health impacts on all aspects of movement.