University of Technology, Sydney

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91604 Introductory Pharmacology and Microbiology

6cp; 5hpw; only available to Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Health students

This subject is divided into two components and provides the introductory principles governing drug action and microbial infections. Lectures are complemented by a tutorial/practical program that emphasises the clinical nature of the subject and develops lecture material using a variety of experimental and case study approaches.

Microbiology: This section of the subject covers the biology of the main groups of micro-organisms, concepts of normal flora, opportunistic pathogens, and microbial infections acquired via gastrointestinal, urinary, respiratory, and the genital tracts. Several key topics in the study of microbiology are also discussed including sources and modes of transmission of micro-organisms, factors determining microbial virulence, and prevention of hospital acquired infections. Additional topics include the epidemiology of infectious diseases, susceptible population groups, isolation procedures, and the collection and transport of microbiological specimens.

Pharmacology: This section of the subject introduces the concepts of potency, drug/receptor interactions, agonists and antagonists and provides some introductory concepts of pharmacokinetics. Other key topics include the site and mechanism of action of drugs affecting the cardiovascular system, anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, antimicrobials and drugs used in the treatment of asthma.

Typical availability

Spring semester, City campus

Fee information

2009 contribution for post-2008 Commonwealth-supported students: $520.25
Note: Students who commenced prior to 1 January 2008 should consult the Student contribution charges for Commonwealth supported students
Not all students are eligible for Commonwealth Supported places.

2009 amount for undergraduate domestic fee-paying students: $2,575.00

Note: Fees for Postgraduate domestic fee-paying students and international students are charged according to the course they are enrolled in. Students should refer to the Annual Fees Schedule.

Subject EFTSL: 0.125

Access conditions

Note: The requisite information presented in this subject description covers only academic requisites. Full details of all enforced rules, covering both academic and admission requisites, are available at Access conditions and My Student Admin.