Undergraduate - UnitPAC1132 - Systems physiology

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Synopsis

In this unit, students will learn the anatomy and physiology of various major organ systems. The autonomic control of these organ systems and the role that they play in maintaining health will also be covered. Pathophysiology and epidemiology of the major disorders of these systems will also be covered. This unit will provide a solid core of physiological knowledge to allow students to understand how drugs are able to modify physiological systems to alleviate the symptoms of a number of diseases to be covered in later years.

This unit aims to describe the physiology of the following systems and organs:

• special senses, skin
• respiratory
• gastrointestinal including feeding, digestion and absorption
• liver
• kidney and excretion
• temperature regulation
• reproductive
• blood and other body fluids

Outcomes

After completing this unit students should be able to:

1. Describe the function of the lungs and airways and how these organs are controlled;
2. Draw a schematic diagram of the kidney, skin and gastrointestinal tract and label the important functional structures within the organs;
3. Explain the function of the kidney, skin and gastrointestinal tract and the pathophysiology of major disorders of these organs;
4. Explain the physiological basis for the most common disease states affecting the kidney, skin and gastrointestinal tract;
5. Analyse simple examples of organ dysfunction, and be able to explain the likely consequences for the function of the system;
6. Draw a schematic diagram of the reproductive system in both males and females and label the structures involved;
7. Explain the normal physiological roles played by each of the organs within these systems;
8. Demonstrate the development of written and oral communication skills appropriate for 1st year students - explain the pathophysiology for one disease state and one associated drug treatment, relating the drug target to the disease state;
9. Have a sound knowledge of the physiology of various systems throughout the body
10. Explain complex physiological mechanisms in writing;
11. Have a good understanding of how physiological systems interact and are modified in disease conditions;
12. Work as a team to complete a research task;
13. Articulate what they know about complex physiological mechanisms orally.

Assessment

oral presentation: 10%; review of practicals and ongoing assessment; 15%; final exam: 75%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Sab Ventura

Contact hours

36 1 hour lectures, one 1 hour tutorial, one 3 hour tutorial, one three hour presentation/ discussion session, two 3 hour practical classes.

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

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