PARA1110 Anatomy and Physiology Course description

Basic knowledge of the structure and functions of the body, and the interaction between them is vital to working as a paramedic. This provides a basis for studying the structures and functions of and injuries to different organs. The course also provides knowledge about the body's normal physiological processes at rest, at work and during different types of physical and mental strain and loads.

Admission to the programme.

After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• has broad knowledge of the normal physiological functions of different organ systems and the body as a whole, and the principles for management and control of different bodily processes
• is capable of giving an account of the structure and function of cells and tissue
• is capable of giving an account of the structure and function of the respiratory system
• is capable of giving an account of the structure and function of the circulation system
• is capable of giving an account of the structure and function of the nervous system
• is capable of giving an account of the structure and function of the skeleton and muscles
• is capable of giving an account of the structure and function of the kidneys and urinary tract
• is capable of giving an account of the structure and function of the digestive system
• is capable of giving an account of the structure of the endocrine system, its function and interaction with other organ systems
• is capable of giving an account of the body's temperature regulation
• is capable of giving an account of the function of the immune system and the composition and function of the blood
• is capable of giving an account of the acid-base balance
• is familiar with the structure and function of the skin
• is capable of giving an account of the structure and function of the senses
• is familiar with the reproductive system and its function

Skills

The student

• knows how to palpate and identify anatomical structures on the surface of the body
• is capable of recognising the organs by their size, shape and position in the body
• is capable of identifying all large bones and joints
• is capable of demonstrating how to observe and assess respiration, and measure blood sugar and temperature
• is capable of using practical procedures to observe a patient's physiological condition
• is capable of demonstrating how to take a pulse, measure blood pressure, oxygen saturation, capnography, blood sugar, temperature, stethoscopy, connect an ECG and assess peripheral circulation
• is familiar with indications for and the use of relevant monitoring equipment
• is familiar with relevant monitoring equipment's limitations and sources of error

General competence

The student

• treats people with respect during examinations
• is respectful when handling anatomical specimens

The work and teaching methods vary between lectures, seminars, simulation and skills training, study groups and self-study. Some lectures will be held jointly for several of the health science programmes at the faculty.

Practical training

The students complete simulation and skills training in the use of technical medical equipment, including a blood pressure gauge, a stethoscope, electrocardiography (ECG) and monitoring equipment for determining the patient's physiological condition.

The following required coursework must be approved before the student can take the exam:

• minimum attendance of 90% at simulation and skills training
• minimum attendance of 80% in study groups and seminars

Exam content: The learning outcomes

Exam form: Supervised individual written exam, 6 hours

None.

Grade scale A-F

All papers are assessed by two examiners. A minimum of twenty per cent of the exam papers will be assessed by an external examiner. The external examiner's assessment shall benefit all the students.