Discuss the meaning of the following statement: "A critical function of the health care professional is to be able to discriminate between normal and abnormal conditions and situations.". Include knowledge and skills that students should acquire

It is critical to understand normal anatomy and physiology (A&P) as this provides knowledge of a normal baseline. This is the baseline all assessments will be compared with to determine abnormal conditions and situations. Answers to the knowledge and skills required will vary, but should include the ability to perform a thorough head-to-toe assessment and good communication and observational skills.