Course coordinator
Dr Awais Babri
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 21/06/2025)
- Study level
- Postgraduate Coursework
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Biomedical Sciences School
BIOM7121 is a biomedical science course for the Master of Nursing Studies program. In this course, you will investigate the anatomy and physiology of the nervous and endocrine systems, and the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, lymphatic (immune) and renal systems. In particular, you will examine the integration of these body systems, and the resulting compensatory mechanisms available to the human body to maintain homeostasis.
The knowledge and skills obtained in this course will allow you to understand aspects of normal human organ and body system structure and function, and aid in the subsequent recognition and understanding of abnormal function in disease and application of various treatment strategies for acute and chronic illnesses.
This course aims to provide students with the essential and fundamental knowledge and skills required to identify and comprehend pathophysiological processes linked to various bodily systems, including the:
- nervous,
- endocrine,
- cardiorespiratory,
- immune,
- digestive,
- renal systems, and
- special topics (skin, trauma and age-related changes)
Additionally, students will gain familiarity with commonly pharmacological agents used to address clinical disorders related to these systems.
The course commences in O-week (17th February, 2025). The structure includes up to four (04) lectures (per week) and six (06) practical laboratory sessions in total conducted throughout the semester.
Anatomy practical classes conducted in the Gross Anatomy Facility (GAF) in the Otto Hirschfeld Building (#81), St Lucia Campus use human cadaveric specimens. Students unable to fully participate for medical, personal or religious reasons, should discuss their situation with the Course Coordinator prior to enrolment.
Of special note:
- The study of real human anatomy depends on altruistic gifts of donors and demands a respectful behaviour and professional attitude of students and staff at all times (see Learning Resources for compulsory training and relevant acts and policy documents). Students should note that it is a requirement under Queensland law to appropriately conduct themselves when examining any material derived from donated human cadavers. The Transplantation and Anatomy Act, 1974 (Qld), s34 (2) states that: "A person who performs an anatomical examination upon a body shall do so in a quiet, orderly and decent manner." A failure to comply with this rule of the Anatomy Act may be regarded as a criminal offence under part s236 (b) of the Criminal Code Act, 1899 (Qld) which states "A person improperly or indecently interferes with, or offers any indignity to, any dead human body or human remains, whether buried or not...is liable to imprisonment...". Any such breaches may be referred to, or prosecuted by, the police.
- As per the SBMS Code of Conduct for Use of Human Tissues (See section 3.1: Required Learning Resources), personal electronic devices including mobile phones, cameras, tablets and other recording devices, must not be used anywhere in the anatomy teaching facilities, and they cannot be carried on your person (even if turned off) beyond the bag rack areas. Exemptions may be provided by the GAF manager for certain medical conditions. Use of the cadavers for entertainment, profit, and/or other personal purposes is strictly prohibited. Unauthorised photography, electronic imaging, and/or postings on social media that compromise donor confidentiality or discuss dissecting room protocol are banned. Severe penalties apply for breach of these rules, including expulsion from the University.
- Learning Resources provides further information. You may also talk to your Course Coordinator and staff in Anatomy Labs if you have any queries.
Course contact
School enquiries
Student and Academic Administration Team
The SBMS Student and Academic Administration Team is located on Level 1 of the Sir William Macgregor Building (64-130)
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Awais Babri
Dr Mary-Louise Roy Manchadi
Dr Kelly Walton
Dr Lachlan Rash
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
While the timetable is correct at the time of publication in the public domain, it is advised to check blackboard (Bb) regularly. It is on Bb where you will find most up-to-date information. You can also contact your course co-ordinator here.
Aims and outcomes
The course is aims to extrapolate the fundamental concepts paving way to better understand clinical conditions. Upon completion of the course students should:
Understand Human Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology
Develop a good understanding of the structure and function of the human body, focusing on systems relevant to nursing practice. Students should appreciate that knowing anatomy and physiology will help them making sense of pathology- disease processes and symptoms
Analyze Pathophysiological Processes
Identify and explain the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying common acute and chronic health conditions.
Integrate Clinical and Biomedical Knowledge
Apply biomedical science concepts to nursing assessments, diagnoses, and interventions in diverse clinical scenarios.
Interpret Diagnostic Results
Analyze and interpret diagnostic tests, laboratory results, and imaging studies to support evidence-based decision-making. Especially during the practical sessions
Explore Pharmacological Principles
Evaluate pharmacological principles, including drug actions, interactions, and adverse effects, to ensure safe medication administration. Students should also learn the mechanisms of actions of commonly prescribed drugs in clinical practice.
Understand Health and Disease Across the Lifespan
Explore physiological and pathological changes across the lifespan, emphasizing implications for nursing care.
Cultivate Lifelong Learning
Foster a commitment to continuous learning and professional development in nursing practice and biomedical sciences.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
explain the importance of homeostasis in human survival, including the importance of the cellular environment and the cell membrane, cellular communication, and integration of cellular responses
LO2.
describe the structure of the cells, tissues and organs that constitute some of the human organ systems
LO3.
identify the principal components, relevant anatomical features and relationships of some of the human organ systems on human cadaveric specimens and communicate effectively using correct anatomical terminology
LO4.
explain how human body systems maintain health
LO5.
explain the integration and control of the major body systems
LO6.
recognise the link between human biology and disease processes and predict some functional deficits that may occur as a result of altered structure, within an ethical framework of respect for both living and deceased humans
LO7.
identify the causes, risk factors, symptoms and treatment options of common health disorders
LO8.
explain the mechanisms of actions of common drugs which affect the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, renal, respiratory, nervous, immune and endocrine systems
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiz |
Formative Assessment
|
Formative |
21/02/2025 - 9/05/2025 |
| Examination |
Invigilated In-semester Examination
|
40% Summative |
28/03/2025 10:00 am |
| Examination |
Invigilated End of Semester Examination
|
60% Summative |
End of Semester Exam Period 7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025 |
Assessment details
Formative Assessment
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- Formative
- Due date
21/02/2025 - 9/05/2025
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
Your CC will discuss the frequency and style of these assessments in first week of the course. Further assessment details will be provided on Blackboard during the semester.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.
These are formative assessments designed to supplement student learning and encourage engagement with course material. As there are no marks associated with these assessments, there will be no extensions or deferrals offered.
Invigilated In-semester Examination
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 40% Summative
- Due date
28/03/2025 10:00 am
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
The in-semester examination is your first major examination for this course. This in-semester examination will test the knowledge from all weeks except week 5. This examination will be MCQs only. It will comprise of 40 questions with 10 minutes of perusal time.
The exam will be a closed book invigilated exam held on campus, undertaken via the Inspera eAssessment platform. Students will be required to bring a laptop to the exam that meets the device requirements for Inspera. It is important that you check before the exam that your laptop meets the device requirements for using the Inspera Assessment platform. If you do not own a suitable laptop, you can borrow one from the Library. The Library website Get familiar with Inspera provides the latest information for students about using Inspera. Further information about the exam will be provided on Blackboard.
Have your UQ student ID card available for all your exams.
This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Students are advised that the use of AI technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 40 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Materials | Dictionary |
| Exam platform | Inspera |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Late submission
No late submissions possible
Invigilated End of Semester Examination
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 60% Summative
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
Covers all lectures and laboratory / practical class materials. Details of the examination format will be provided in Blackboard during the semester.
The exam will be a closed book invigilated exam held on campus, undertaken via the Inspera eAssessment platform. Students will be required to bring a laptop to the exam that meets the device requirements for Inspera. It is important that you check before the exam that your laptop meets the device requirements for using the Inspera Assessment platform. If you do not own a suitable laptop, you can borrow one from the Library. The Library website Get familiar with Inspera provides the latest information for students about using Inspera. Further information about the exam will be provided on Blackboard.
Have your UQ student ID card available for all your exams.
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Inspera |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
The exam is designed to have 60 min working time and 10 min persual time making a total of 70 min.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Late submission
No late submissions possible.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) | 0 - 29 |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A cumulative score for allﾠassessment itemsﾠofﾠ0% - 29% |
| 2 (Fail) | 30 - 44 |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A cumulative score for allﾠassessment itemsﾠofﾠ30% - 44% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) | 45 - 49 |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: A cumulative score for allﾠassessment itemsﾠofﾠ45% - 49% |
| 4 (Pass) | 50 - 64 |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A cumulative score for allﾠassessment items of 50% - 64% |
| 5 (Credit) | 65 - 74 |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A cumulative score for allﾠassessment items of 65%ﾠ- 74% |
| 6 (Distinction) | 75 - 80 |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A cumulative score for allﾠassessment itemsﾠofﾠ75% - 84% |
| 7 (High Distinction) | 85 - 100 |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: A cumulative score for allﾠassessment itemsﾠofﾠ85% - 100% |
Additional course grading information
No assessment items are compulsory. A mark of zero will be recorded if an assessment item is not submitted. Penalties apply for late submission unless there is an approved extension date.ﾠ
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
The supplementary assessment may be in the form of an exam (written or oral), a written submission or another assessment as determined by the Course Coordinator. It may be made up of multiple components and will allow students to meet any outstanding Learning Outcomes. The final grade awarded will be based on the results of the supplementary assessment only and a passing grade will be awarded only if a student passes the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Information onﾠapplying for an assessment extensionﾠcan be found on the Applying for an extension website.
Information onﾠapplying for a deferred examﾠcan be found on theﾠDeferring an exam website.
Information onﾠassessment re-mark requestsﾠcan be found on theﾠQuerying a result website.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Other course materials
If we've listed something under further requirement, you'll need to provide your own.
Required
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Current UQ Student ID card | To access the GAF practicals and to sit exams you must have a current UQ Student ID card. Obtain your card as early as possible and prior to course start. There are no exceptions. You must have a valid Student ID card to gain entry. | own item needed |
| Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Identification: | It is a requirement that ALL students wear a clean white laboratory coat, safety glasses, fully-enclosed shoes, and their student identification cards when in the Gross Anatomy Facility. Students WILL NOT be permitted in the laboratory (including their first laboratory session), without these items. PPE and identification card holders can be purchased from the UQ bookshop. Each student must have their UQ Student Identification Card visibly displayed above the waist, when in the laboratory. While public health directions no longer require face masks to be worn, they are recommended when you cannot physically distance, you are a vulnerable person or caring for vulnerable people. Please note that cloth masks are not acceptable in laboratory classes in the School of Biomedical Sciences. PPE and identification card holders can be purchased from the School Locker. | own item needed |
| Online Anatomy Induction Training | Students must complete the online training for the "SBMS Code of Conduct for use of Donated Human Tissues" and the "GAF Student Pre-Entry Induction" at the UQ blackboard training website (Biomedical Sciences Student Training) 72 hrs prior to attending their first GAF session and at least once in each calendar year. A record of student completions of this training will be cross-checked against class rolls for each practical attendance. Students will not be permitted entry to the GAF if these induction modules have not been completed in full, including prohibition of entry for practical exams. | |
| Face-to-Face GAF Induction | At the first scheduled GAF practical, students are required to undertake a face-to-face induction. A record of student completions of this training will be cross-checked against class rolls for each practical attendance. Students will not be permitted entry to the GAF if these induction modules have not been completed in full, including the prohibition of entry for practical exams | |
| SBMS Code of Conduct for Use of Donated Human Tissues | http://www.biomedical-sciences.uq.edu.au/files/12049/SBMS_CodeOfConduct_forHumanTissueUse_2016_1_HRECB.pdf | |
| Transplantation and Anatomy Act, 1979 (Qld) | http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/browse/inforce | |
| Criminal Code Act, 1899 (Qld) | http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/browse/inforce | |
| UQ PPL 1.30.07 Anatomy Facilities and Programs Governance | http://ppl.app.uq.edu.au/content/1.30.07-anatomy-facilities-and-programs-governance |
Additional learning resources information
Lectures and practicals/workshops materials for BIOM7121 will be accessible for download in PDF format on the course Blackboard site. It is anticipated that students will regularly monitor the course Blackboard site for any announcements and updates. It is recommended that students check Bb at least three times a week (start, mid and end).
A GAF Policy and Procedures Laboratory Manual will also be available to students when in the GAF. Compulsory face-to-face GAF inductions for students will also be conducted at the start of semester, by the GAF staff, at scheduled times. Students are required to attend one of these face-to-face induction sessions prior to undertaking any classes in the GAF.ﾠAny non-compliance with state legislation or university, school or GAF policy may result in an investigation and disciplinary action.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Multiple weeks From Week 1 To Week 11 |
Practical |
Laboratory Practicals and Workshops [Babri]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
Week 1 (17 Feb - 23 Feb) |
Lecture |
Course Introduction [Babri] Welcome to BIOM7121, Course structure, resources, learning activities and assessments |
Lecture |
Fundamentals of Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology and Pharmacology & Central Nervous System [Babri and Manchadi]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
|
Week 2 (24 Feb - 02 Mar) |
Lecture |
Endocrine and Reproduction [Walton]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
Multiple weeks From Week 3 To Week 4 |
Lecture |
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems [Babri]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Multiple weeks From Week 4 To Week 5 |
Lecture |
Lymphatic/Immune System [Rash]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Multiple weeks From Week 5 To Week 6 |
Lecture |
Gastrointestinal System [Babri]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
Week 6 (24 Mar - 30 Mar) |
Lecture |
Basics of General and Clinical Nutrition [Babri]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L08 |
Week 7 (31 Mar - 06 Apr) |
Lecture |
Renal/ Urinary System [Babri]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Week 8 (07 Apr - 13 Apr) |
Lecture |
Skin [Babri]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07 |
Week 10 (28 Apr - 04 May) |
Lecture |
Clinical Pharmacology [Manchadi]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Week 11 (05 May - 11 May) |
Lecture |
Musculoskeletal System and Trauma [Babri]
Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Lecture |
Body Systems and Age [Babri] Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Workshop |
Revision (Babri) Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Multiple weeks From Week 12 To Week 14 |
Placement |
Placements During placements, students gain practical, hands-on experience in healthcare settings under the supervision of registered nurses and clinical educators. Students will apply the theoretical knowledge learned in their studies to real-world scenarios, developing essential clinical skills such as patient assessment, administering medications, wound care, and monitoring vital signs. Students also will learn to communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams while building professional behaviors and confidence. Placements expose students to various clinical environments, such as hospitals, aged care facilities, community health centers, or mental health services, helping them understand the diverse roles of nurses and preparing them for future practice. Further details about your placements are available from you school. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.
School guidelines
Your school has additional guidelines you'll need to follow for this course:
Course guidelines
State Legislation
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students should be familiar with and shall not contravene:
The Transplantation and Anatomy Act, 1979 (Qld) - http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/LEGISLTN/CURRENT/T/TransplAAnatA79.pdf
The Criminal Code Act, 1899 (Qld) - https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/legisltn/current/c/crimincode.pdf