NURS 1162: Introduction to Pathophysiology
Effective date
September 2023
Department
Baccalaureate Nursing
Description
This course introduces the study of pathophysiology. Students build on existing knowledge of human anatomy and physiology by examining altered functions for selected body systems. Pertinent microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology, diagnostic content and nursing interventions are integrated to reflect the interrelated and holistic nature of the body’s responses to illness and healing. Students use a process of critical inquiry to support evidence-informed practice as they engage with course material focusing on the older adult.
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Corequisites
NURS 1150, NURS 1161, NURS 1153, NURS 1164.
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify concepts of health, illness, homeostasis and the pathophysiology of disease as they apply to older adults.
- Describe the pathophysiological processes at the cellular, tissue and organ levels for selected disorders in various body systems.
- Apply principles of microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, pharmacology diagnostics and nursing interventions to selected health challenges and healing.
- Explain mechanisms of infectious diseases and the physiology of body defenses.
- Outline the mechanisms of alterations in homeostasis.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Total Hours: 30
Instructional Strategies
This course is delivered in the classroom using large group discussion, small group application activities, and case studies. Active participation is a foundation of professional practice, critical thinking and capacity building.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Evaluation Plan
Type
|
Percentage
|
Assessment activity
|
Quizzes/Tests
|
65
|
2-4 quizzes
|
Final Exam
|
35
|
|
Course topics
- - Introduction to pathophysiology concepts
- Mechanisms of infectious disease and inflammatory response
- Alterations in temperature regulation
- Acute and Chronic Pain
- Disorders of:
--blood pressure regulation
--visual and hearing function
--the neural function: Parkinson’s Disease
--musculoskeletal function: Osteoarthritis, Osteoporosis
--blood flow in the venous systemic circulation
--respiratory function: Pneumonia
--gastrointestinal function: motility, C. Difficile diarrhea, Constipation
--genitourinary function: Neurogenic bladder, incontinence, stones, UTI
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/.
- To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.