Biological basis of child health 11: anatomy, physiology and development of the senses

development of the senses

This article, the 11th in the Biological basis of child health series, focuses on the senses. There are five basic senses in humans: hearing, sight, touch, smell and taste. Several congenital and acquired conditions can affect the senses and may have significant negative effects on a child’s development and ability to communicate with others.

This article explores each of the five senses, discussing their anatomy, physiology and embryological development, as well as common conditions affecting sensory function in children. It aims to provide children’s nurses with an understanding of the role of the senses in supporting children to make sense of the world, and how knowledge of this can be linked to clinical practice.

Search: 

Resource
Available to RCNi Plus subscribers
Online

Why you should read this article

  • to enhance your knowledge of the anatomy, physiology and development of the five senses
  • to increase your awareness of the common childhood conditions that can affect sensory function
  • to count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers)
  • to contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers)

Resource last reviewed

No date available

Authors

Kate Davies (Associate professor of paediatric prescribing and endocrinology - London South Bank University, and honorary research fellow in paediatric endocrinology, Queen Mary University of London, London, England)