Module: Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice
Module Code	PHS1002 (ITS: NS5065P)
Faculty	Nursing, PsyT & Comm Health	School	Science & Health
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	10

Description

This module examines advanced physiology and the pathophysiological disruptions of normal body functioning in a variety of conditions across the lifespan. Students will explore screening, risk factors and pathophysiology and epidemiology underlying acute and chronic health problems. We will look at disease states from cellular level and their associated clinical manifestations . Students will study the epidemiology of disease and the determinats of health. It is intended to describe the pathophysiological variations in diverse populations and diagnostic evaluation methods, which will aid in the selection of rational therapies fro optimum health outcomes.

Learning Outcomes

1. Recognise abnormal clinical manifestations of common disease states across the lifespan.
2. Explore risk factors and screening recommendations as per best practice guidelines.
3. Describe the aetiology and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms involved with diseases at the systemic and cellular level.
4. Discuss abnormal biological processes of selected common conditions in diverse populations.
5. Explain factors that influence disease states in population health and the global incidence and prevalence of diseases.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	36	Face to face interaction will facilitate the learning process
Tutorial	20	Students will be guided through concept mapping but will have an opportunity to vote on revisiting pathophysiological concepts not clearly understood
Independent Study	194	Students will develop concept maps and read, rewrite / study their notes / online material independently, or work in groups to review classroom material.
Total Workload: 250

Section Breakdown
CRN	11300	Part of Term	Semester 1
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Patricia Johnson	Module Teacher	Siobhan Rothwell

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Completion of online activity	Synchronous and asynchronous online learning and engagement with pre-determined module tasks including on-line activities.	30%	n/a
Group assignment	Students will work in groups to complete and present concept maps of assigned disease states	30%	n/a
Loop Quiz	Final MCQ to assess module content	40%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Epidemiology, Incidence and Prevalence of Disease States

Altered Cellular Proliferation and Differentiation

Genetics and Development Disorders

Hematologic System

Altered Perfusion / EKG Analysis

Altered Ventilation and Diffusion / Arterial Blood Gas Analysis

Altered Neuronal Transmission / Altered Somatic and Special sensory Function

Fluid and Electrolytes

Acid Base Balance

Altered Digestive System

Altered Endocrine System

Altered Hormonal and Metabolic Regulation

Altered Renal and Urologic Systems

Altered Integumentary System

Indicative Reading List

Books:

McCance, K.L. & Huether, S.E.: 2014, Pathophysiology: The Biologic Basis for Disease in Adults and Children, 7th Edition, Mosby / Elsevier, St. Louis, 978-032306584
Porth, C.M.: 2014, Essentials of Pathophysiology: Concepts of Altered Health States., 4th Edition, Wolters Kluwer Health / Lippincott Williams & Wilkins., Philadelphia, 978-158255724

Articles:

0: The Internet Pathology Lab for Medical Education,

Other Resources

None