510-490 Clinical Medicine, Surgery & Pathology

Note

Credit Points

HECS Band

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

The principal objectives are to develop clinical skills, a basic knowledge of the component clinical disciplines, and a knowledge of general and systemic pathology that can be applied to diagnosis and management. More specific objectives are to (i) learn to communicate with patients, (ii) develop the ability to take a medical history and perform a physical examination, (iii) acquire a knowledge base about the clinical features, pathological basis and natural history of common medical and surgical diseases, (iv) learn to synthesise the information obtained at the bedside and from pathological and radiological tests to arrive at rational diagnoses, (v) learn the basic principles of management of medical and surgical patients, including rational drug treatment, (vi) understand the importance of medical ethics, (vii) begin to appreciate the roles of the doctor in the health care system. The teaching in laboratory medicine and clinical pharmacology builds on the teaching in the corresponding subjects in third year. While the content will include all areas referred to under objectives, the major content of this subject will be directed to the first four objectives, taught particularly via small group or individual interactions with patients.

Assessment

Two 2-hour end-of-year written examinations, including questions related to all of the disciplines listed under the preliminary note to this listing, but especially clinical medicine and surgery and pathology. A joint long-case clinical examination and a structured examination comprised of clinical and pathological problem-solving exercises; students must pass the long-case examination as well as in both components overall to pass fourth year. Clinical teachers' reports throughout the year contribute to the final mark.

Prescribed Texts

For a list of prescribed texts students should consult the fourth year booklist available at each Clinical School.