Normal physical findings will be emphasized. Variants of normal and common abnormal physical findings will be introduced. Laboratory sessions will provide supervised small group practicums. At the completion of the course, each student is required to demonstrate proficiency and competency in systematically performing a complete physical examination on an adult patient. This is an integrated course covering the study of the gross structures of the brain and spinal cord and the functional relationship of the human nervous system.
Emphasis is placed on the major motor and sensory pathways and their integrative mechanisms.
Clinical case presentations encompassing the major and common neurological disease processes are presented. The basic skills of gathering historical information and interpreting the physical examination findings on the neurological patient is stressed. This course will provide a thorough understanding of the mechanisms of drug action. The classes of drugs commonly used in the Physician Assistant's clinical practice will be examined with the emphasis on the mode of action such as rates of absorption, metabolism, excretion and effects on organ systems. Appropriate drug selection, side effects and toxicities, contraindications and drug interactions are discussed as they relate to the practical aspects of primary care.