NUR2303

Science in nursing 3

6 points · 6 hours per week · First semester · Gippsland and Peninsula · Prerequisites: NUR1301, NUR1302

Objectives On completion of this subject, students should be able to demonstrate working knowledge of the anatomy of the respiratory system; understanding of the mechanics of ventilation and of the physicochemical processes of gas transport and exchange; appreciation of the major disorders of the respiratory system; consolidation of understanding of the properties of fluids, solutions, ions, acids, bases and buffers; understanding of exchanges between body fluid compartments; consolidation of understanding of the ways in which circulatory, respiratory and urinary systems interact to regulate the 'internal environment'; working knowledge of the anatomy of the digestive system; understanding of the chemical structure of nutrients; understanding of the processes of digestion and absorption, and of hepatic function; appreciation of the major disorders of the digestive system; understanding of the structure and function of the brain and the spinal cord; appreciation of the role of the autonomic nervous system in the regulation of internal processes; familiarity with major disorders of the nervous system, and the effects of injuries to it; understanding of the nature of hormones and the mechanisms of hormone action; working knowledge of the structure and function of the endocrine system; appreciation of the major disorders of the endocrine system; consolidation of understanding of the ways in which the body's responses to internal and external stimuli are coordinated by the nervous and endocrine systems.

Synopsis The aim of this subject is to develop in students an understanding of the structure and function of the respiratory system, and the physical basis of respiratory function; the behaviour of body fluids, and the interaction of circulatory, urinary and respiratory systems in the regulation of the internal environment; the chemical nature of nutrients, and the structure and function of the digestive system; the integrative functions of the nervous system and the endocrine system. In this subject, the physical and biological sciences are presented in an integrated manner, and the content is articulated with concurrent nursing subjects.

Assessment Laboratory work: 30% · Examination: 70% · Students must pass both the examination and the laboratory component in order to pass the subject.

Prescribed texts

Martini F H Fundamentals of anatomy and physiology 4th edn, Prentice-Hall, 1998

Back to the 1999 Medicine Handbook