Nursing

Physiology contribute to the teaching of a number of undergraduate and postgraduate Nursing courses

 Undergraduate Nursing Courses

Undergraduate nursing degree students (Bachelor of Nursing Science (General), Bachelor of Nursing Science (Mental Health) or a Bachelor of Midwifery Science) will undertake modules in Physiology in 1^st and 2^nd year of their degree. These modules will provide students with the background knowledge on how the body works both in health and disease, such that students can build on this knowledge when they enter a clinical setting.

 NU1107 Health and Applied Biosciences 1 (10 credits)

Module Co-ordinator: Brian McDonagh (Physiology)

Aim of this course

This module introduces students to the principles of biochemistry, genetics, radiology, nutrition, and dietetics. It will examine the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and renal systems, and the autonomic nervous system, which will inform students’ application to nursing and midwifery practice.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an understanding of basic chemistry and biochemistry and their relevance to the study of anatomy and physiology.

2. Demonstrate an ability to identify anatomical terminology for body parts, planes and sections of the body.

3. Describe cell structures, function and division and the principles of homeostasis.

4. Explain modes of inheritance, chromosomal abnormalities, basis of cancer genetics and advances in genetic testing, prevention and treatment as applied to nursing and identify the structures and stages of embryonic development.

5. Demonstrate an understanding of the structures and functions of the cardiovascular system, blood and blood vessels, and the application of blood pressure monitoring in relation to nursing and midwifery practice.

6. Demonstrate an understanding of the renal, respiratory, and digestive systems.

7. Identify the principles of dietetics and radiology in healthcare.

NU2200 Health and Applied Biosciences II (10 credits)

Module Co-ordinator: Siobhan McMahon (Anatomy)

Aim of this course

This module introduces students to the principles of pathology, microbiology and immunology. It will examine the anatomy and physiology of integumentary system, lymphatic system, nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and endocrine system, male and female reproductive systems, which will inform students’ application to nursing and midwifery practice.

 Learning Outcomes

1. Identify the structures and functions of the skin, lymphatic system, sensory organs and the physiology of sensation and pain.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the structures and functions of the central, peripheral and autonomic nervous systems.
3. Identify the structures of the skull, spine, upper and lower limbs; and the mechanism of movement.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the structures and functions of the endocrine system including a basic introduction to psychoneuroimmunology.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the structures and functions of the female and male reproductive system
6. Identify the pathological processes of cell and tissue injury, inflammation, embolism and ischaemia and neoplasia.
7. Demonstrate understanding of the principles of microbiology, immunology, infection control and their application to nursing and midwifery practice

Postgraduate Nursing Programmes

Master/Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science (Gerontology)

This programme is for all nurses caring for older people in acute, community or long-term care settings. The programme aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills and competency to provide high quality care for older people that accords with the World Health Organisation philosophy of gerontological nursing.

 NU6102 Ageing and Older People: Biopsychosocial Perspectives (10 credits)

The module is arranged around two themes, namely the Sociology of Ageing and the Physiology of Ageing. The module focuses on the experience and meaning of ageing for the individual, with the aim of developing your awareness of what it is like to be old in our society. In addition, input on the physiology of ageing will address the functional changes associated with ageing

The physiology component of the module is delivered via online learning supported by lectures over a period of 10 weeks that cover the effects of ageing on the musculoskeletal, skin, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive, sensory, nervous, immune and endocrine systems. The material is assessed via two MCQ assessments.