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Unit Overview

Description

A robust understanding of the principles of human anatomy and physiology is fundamental to the knowledge base of health professionals. This foundational unit introduces the structure and function of the human body. The organisation of the human body, the chemical and structural basis of cell function, body tissues and major organ systems will be overviewed. Specific systems addressed will include the musculoskeletal, integumentary, respiratory, cardiovascular, immune, hepato-renal, nervous, gastrointestinal, endocrine and reproductive systems, and the senses. Upon completion of the unit, students will be able to explain the integration of normal structure and function and the role of homeostatic feedback control mechanisms in maintaining bodily functions.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationModeFirst year of offer
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate capability to engage in self-reflection and lifelong learning through a spirit of inquiry and an ongoing commitment to ensuring capability for practice in self and others; (2) apply discipline knowledge and practice in the care of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and other culturally and linguistically diverse individuals and groups across the lifespan, within various metropolitan and regional health care contexts; (3) demonstrate inclusive, evidenced-based, person-centred, culturally safe care across the health-illness continuum, within various metropolitan and regional health care contexts; and (4) apply robust research skills to generate and analyse evidence to make informed decisions to support safe and quality health care.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) e-portfolio assessment tasks

and (2) end of semester viva. Further information is available in the unit outline.



This unit is assessed on an ungraded pass/ungraded failed basis. All assessment items must be successfully completed.

Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Fiona Foxall
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
BH028 Bachelor of Nursing (Honours)
Contact hours
Participation in online tutorial and associated activities 2 hours x 15 weeks = 30 hours
Texts

Bullock, S. & Hales, M. (2023). Principles of Pathophysiology. Pearson.  

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.