Overview

The module will further consolidate how four major fields of diagnostic science are applied to augment clinical decision making, including patient monitoring and observations, common tests of blood, urine and other body fluids and tissues, imaging and other non-invasive and invasive diagnostic tools.

Using a conditions approach as outlined in the Physician Associate curriculum, Matrix Specification of Core Clinical Conditions (DoH, 2006), conditions are listed within body system/clinical field; broad disorder type and individual condition/disorder. This module will reflect on the more common ‘core’ conditions listed in 1A of the PA programme model for categorising conditions, but importantly will incorporate the use of diagnostic sciences in conditions from categories 2A, 1B and 2B. The module will consolidate and expand on, using a systems approach, areas where diagnostic science augments patient care, including:

• The Cardiovascular System
• The Respiratory System
• The Liver
• The Gastro-Intestinal Tract
• The Endocrine System
• The Renal System
• The Brain/CNS
• The Reproductive System
• The Musculo-Skeletal/neurological Systems
• The Skin
• Haematology
• Infectious diseases
• ENT/Eye

This module will integrate horizontally and vertically with the skills and knowledge gained from both the primarily basic medical science and predominantly clinical modules, enabling students to synthesise and incorporate learning experiences from multiple domains.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Category C (50% -59%)A threshold student should have basic knowledge of the essential facts and key concepts of diagnostic sciences presented in the module. The work is only based on lecture material. No evidence of wider reading or critical thinking. -good -Category B (60%-69%)A good student should have a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module, and be able to detail examples where appropriate. The work presented is largely based on the lecture material. Limited evidence of wider reading and critical analysis. -excellent -Category A (70% - 100%):An excellent student should have a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module, and be able to detail examples where appropriate, supported by additional reading and knowledge drawn from other modules. The work presents evidence of critical thinking. Especially for the higher A marks, critical analysis and wider reading is essential.

Learning Outcomes

• Appraise the tests which are appropriate in aiding and guiding disease management based on the clinical presentation and setting

• Be able to confidently and accurately apply the results of commonly employed diagnostic tools in patient management

• Consolidate the knowledge of tests available that aid in the management of a range of clinical conditions

• Developed an in-depth understanding of the utility of the diagnostic sciences in clinical decision making

• Investigate the scientific principles underpinning the tests used and sources of error that can influence the accuracy and reliability of results

• Review how diagnostic sciences are related to clinical assessment and management