Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The aim of this unit is to provide an introduction to disease state management and concepts common to a range of disease states and to provide an integrated foundation of basic knowledge of the chemistry, pharmacology and therapeutics required for the diagnosis and management of patients with infectious diseases. This unit also aims to develop students' generic skills in critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, leadership and working in teams.

Objectives

At the end of this unit students will be able to:

• Describe the epidemiology of a range of infectious diseases
• Discuss the chemistry, classification, functions and pharmaceutical aspects of a range of antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-parasitic agents
• Explain the pathophysiology of infectious diseases
• Describe the mechanism of action of various classes of antimicrobials agents
• Describe the structure-activity relationships and mechanism of action of anti-infective agents
• Describe the signs and symptoms likely to be seen in patients with the disorders
• Diagnose minor infections by consideration of signs and symptoms.
• Recognise when referral for medical assessment is required with a particular emphasis on cardinal symptoms.
• Discuss the role of the immune system in hypersensitivity reactions, the development of immunity and auto-immune diseases
• Discuss the role of antimicrobials and their uses for various disease states
• Describe the problems of infectious disease world-wide and the major problems of resistance
• Identify the possibility of interactions between certain antimicrobials and other drugs and conditions
• Recognise the role of the pharmacist in communicating with the patients and liaising with other health care professionals to monitor patient care.
• Formulate a medical management program for a specific patient based on a diagnosis.
• Identify any drug therapy problems and recommend appropriate resolutions of those problems
• Work in a team to achieve a common goal

Assessment

Problem based learning exercises: 30%; examination: 70%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr David Chalmers

Contact hours

36 hours of lectures; 6 hours of tutorials

Prerequisites

PAC2412 Integrated Therapeutics: Introduction and Cardiovascular
PAC3191 Microbiology and immunology

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.monash.edu.au/muso/support/