Unit Catalogue

Back to Unit Search

PHA311 - Clinical Biochemistry

2023

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Medical Laboratory Science

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Must have passed 1 unit in (MLS245, SBI245)

Incompatible

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit is designed to analyse the common biochemical tests used in pathology laboratories with emphasis on both the physiological and biochemical aspects for performing tests to determine various disease states. Students will learn to diagnose disorders based on abnormalities in water balance, osmolarity, acid/base homeostasis and blood gases. They will develop an understanding of endocrine function and its control in hormone secretions, clinical enzymology and the presence of serum proteins as a basis of health and disease. Students will also learn to interpret results to identify disorders involving lipids, carbohydrate metabolism and kidney & liver function, plus be aware of the importance of reference ranges in testing procedures and maintaining laboratory safety and quality control. Therapeutic drug monitoring and chemical toxicity will also be emphasised together with the development of clinical knowledge and skills in the delivery of pharmaceutical care and active participation in therapeutic management and applying quality use of medicines.

Text Book

Bookshop

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Appreciate the biochemical and physiological rationale for performing tests in a clinical biochemical setting
2.	Demonstrate an understanding of the principles behind automated analytical systems used in clinical biochemistry
3.	Demonstrate an understanding of the underlying causes and manifestations of metabolic disorders
4.	Demonstrate the clinical relevance of electrolytes, enzymes, hormones and lipids in evaluating endocrine, respiratory, hepatic and renal function
5.	Describe the importance of quality controls and assurance in clinical biochemistry
6.	Apply biochemical knowledge in clinical settings

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Presentation idea (500 words)	5%	1,2,3,4,5,6
2.	Oral presentation (5mins/student)	15%	1,2,3,4,5,6
3.	Case Study (1,200 words)	25%	1,2,3,4
4.	Essay (1,200 words)	25%	1,2,3,4,5,6
5.	Exam (1 hour)	30%	1,3

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2023	Semester 1	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR	View

* Timetable will be displayed in new tab or window depending on your browser's configuration; ensure Pop-ups are allowed for this site to view the timetable.

OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2023 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)