Which part of the small intestine is known as the ileum?

The ileum is indeed recognized as the last section of the small intestine. It is the final segment, following the jejunum, and plays a critical role in the absorption of nutrients and bile salts. The ileum is typically about 2-4 meters long and is more involved in the absorption of vitamin B12 and any remaining nutrients that were not absorbed by the earlier sections of the small intestine, such as the duodenum and jejunum.

Understanding that the ileum is the last section is essential in medical contexts, as it helps to grasp how digestion and nutrient absorption are completed in the gastrointestinal tract. This knowledge is foundational for medical assistants when interacting with patients or interpreting diagnostic information, as they need to understand where specific processes occur within the digestive system.