Program Overview

BMS263 Foundational Pharmacology and Pathophysiology for Allied Health

Introduction

In this subject, students will apply their knowledge of basic chemistry, biochemistry, and human physiology to the study of pharmacology. This foundation subject provides students with an introduction to pathophysiology and fundamental concepts of pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and polypharmacy, with an emphasis on the cardiac, renal, and respiratory systems.

Subject Information

• Grading System: HD/FL
• Duration: One session
• School: School of Community Health
• Assumed Knowledge: This subject assumes knowledge of basic chemistry, biochemistry, and foundational human physiology of all body systems.
• Incompatible Subjects: BMS291

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

• be able to appropriately apply the professional language associated with medical and pharmacological practice
• be able to explain the mechanism of action and properties of pharmacological agents used for the treatment of cardiac, respiratory, renal, endocrine, and inflammatory pathology
• be able to analyse the implications of polypharmacy, drug-drug, and drug-disease interactions when taking a client history
• be able to apply foundational knowledge of pathology and pharmacology to explain the clinical management of chronic disease

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

• Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
• Introduction to clinical science / altered cellular function
• Immune system pathophysiology
• Manipulation of the immune system and wound healing
• Inflammation (diseases / pain / anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Endocrine pathophysiology & pharmacology: diabetes
• Cardiac pathophysiology & pharmacology
• Vasculature pathophysiology & pharmacology
• Respiratory pathophysiology & pharmacology
• Urinary system pathophysiology & pharmacology

Availability

• Session 1 (30)
• On Campus: Albury-Wodonga Campus, Orange Campus, Port Macquarie Campus
• Online: Albury-Wodonga Campus