Program Overview

Introduction to BMS216 Introductory Haematology

BMS216 Introductory Haematology is a subject that introduces students to haematology, examining the structural and functional attributes of cellular and non-cellular constituents of blood in health and disease states. The subject covers morphological and functional characteristics of blood cells at different stages of production, differentiation, and maturation. It also delves into the haemostatic system, comprising primary haemostasis, secondary haemostasis, and the fibrinolytic system. Furthermore, blood diseases, including anaemias, leucocyte disorders, and disorders of haemostasis, are discussed at clinical, pathophysiological, and laboratory diagnostic levels.

Subject Information

Grading System

The grading system for BMS216 is HD/FL.

Duration

The subject is offered for one session.

School

The subject is part of the School of Biomedical Sciences.

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for BMS216 are BMS130 or ASC171.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• Classify and explain the morphological and functional attributes of blood cells
• Name and classify the components of the haemostatic system and explain their functions
• Illustrate and describe the development of blood cells and comment on the structure and functions of blood-producing tissues/organs
• Classify and describe disorders of blood cells
• Classify and describe disorders of the haemostatic system
• Explain principles behind routine haematological tests
• Interpret the results of haematological tests
• Demonstrate basic skills necessary to conduct routine haematological techniques
• Demonstrate high levels of academic communication and team working skills

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• Haemopoietic tissues and the production of blood cells
• Morphology and function of blood cells
• Destruction of blood cells
• Haemoglobin synthesis, structure, function, and destruction
• Anaemias and polycythaemias
• Benign leucocyte disorders
• Introduction to malignant leucocyte disorders, including leukaemias, multiple myeloma, and lymphomas
• Platelets, their functions, and disorders
• The coagulation system and its disorders
• The fibrinolytic system
• Anticoagulation therapy and its laboratory monitoring
• Routine and special haematology tests, including complete blood count, blood film examination, and coagulation screening tests
• Interpretation of results of laboratory tests in relation to clinical findings of haematological diseases and their diagnoses

Residential School

The subject includes a 4-day compulsory residential school, where students will learn practical techniques such as performing full blood count (FBC), preparation, staining, and examination of blood films, as well as conducting coagulation screening tests. Students will be required to demonstrate their abilities in performing routine haematology tests.

Availability

The subject is available in Session 1, with offerings on the Wagga Wagga Campus for both on-campus and online students. Continuing students should consult the Subject Availability List (SAL) for current offering details, as the SAL takes precedence over the Handbook in case of discrepancies.