What part of the body is referred to as the thorax?

The thorax refers to the part of the body commonly known as the chest. This region is anatomically situated between the neck and the abdomen and houses vital organs such as the heart and lungs. The thoracic cavity is enclosed by the rib cage, which provides protection to these organs while also facilitating breathing. Understanding the thorax is crucial for combat medics as it plays a significant role in respiration and can be the site of serious injuries in trauma situations. Recognizing this anatomical region allows for better assessment and intervention when treating patients in the field.