To introduce students to a range of clinical skills, clinical examination and basic procedures encountered commonly in clinical medicine. To facilitate a better understanding of the application of biomedical sciences to the clinical context. To combine the anatomy and physiology of some of the major systems of the body with clinical skills, clinical examinations and procedures related to these systems. On completion of the module, students will have an understanding of the basic functions of some of the major systems of the body and understand the assessment, monitoring and clinical relevance of these functions.

Introduction to approaching the patient in the clinical context: communication, consent and interpersonal factors, hygiene and asepsis in clinical examination. Overall body function: physiologic basis of vital signs and the clinical relevance of deviation from normal, monitoring of basic vital signs including measurement of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and temperature. Respiratory system: respiratory function, principles of respiratory examination, lung function testing, oxygen delivery, use of inhaled medications. Cardiovascular system: cardiovascular function, principles of cardiovascular examination, theory and procedure of electrocardiography. Introduction to intravascular access and principles and procedures regarding venepuncture. Peripheral vascular examination and assessment including Doppler ultrasound. Central nervous system: function of the central nervous system, principles of examination of cranial nerves including ophthalmoscopy. Peripheral nervous system: function of peripheral nervous system, principles of examination of the motor and sensory aspects of the peripheral nervous system. Endocrine system: endocrine function and homeostasis, practical aspects of blood glucose analysis and subcutaneous injection. Basic life support: initial assessment of the acutely unwell or collapsed patient and performance of initial life preserving measures (including use of automated external defibrillator and performance of effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation)

At the end of this module, the student will be able to; Demonstrate an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the mechanisms governing control and homeostasis of basic body functions and major organ systems and clinical factors affecting those functions. Demonstrate an understanding of the steps involved in basic assessment and examination of the major organ systems of the body. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of accurate assessment and measurement in the clinical evaluation of patients. Apply theory of physiology, anatomy and microbiology to interaction with and assessment of patients in a clinical context. Demonstrate an appreciation of the factors leading to changes in clinical measurements or clinical status of patients. Demonstrate an understanding of the mechanisms used to evaluate the function of the major organ systems of the body with reference to clinical measurements and clinical assessment data.

At the end of this module, the student will be able to; Demonstrate an appreciation of the importance of effective communication with the patient in any clinical interaction. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of clinical factors as they pertain to accurate clinical measurement, drug delivery methods, medical device design, medical device use and patient compliance.

At the end of this module, the student will be able to; Perform accurate measurements of basic vital signs; perform the examination of fundamental aspects of function of the major organ systems of the body; perform and interpret electrocardiographs; perform point of care blood testing such as blood glucose analysis and administering subcutaneous injection; assess the acutely unwell or collapsed patient and administer basic life support.

The module will be delivered via a combination of lecture and practical clinical skills laboratory sessions. Students will attain experience in clinical examination and clinical procedures using a blend of peer examination and the use of simulators. Students will be encouraged to self-reflect and use advanced communication skills during the practical aspects of the module.