PHY202L Human Physiology Laboratory – Course Syllabus and Study Guide

PHY202L Human Physiology Laboratory – Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to human physiology laboratory concepts for nursing students. It covers the structure and function of the human body, emphasizing physiological mechanisms, laboratory skills, and clinical applications relevant to nursing practice.

• Course Code: PHY202L

• Credits: 1 unit

• Format: Skills Lab (on campus)

• Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Human Anatomy & Physiology I or equivalent

Course Description

• Explores laboratory processes in human physiology, including cell physiology and homeostasis, nervous and endocrine system function, cardiovascular and respiratory physiology, and more.

• Emphasizes the application of physiological principles to clinical scenarios and nursing practice.

Mission Statement & Program Learning Outcomes

• Prepares students for safe, evidence-based nursing care through scientific understanding of human physiology.

• Develops skills in critical thinking, communication, and teamwork.

Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)

• Describe the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and systems.

• Explain physiological mechanisms underlying homeostasis and control systems.

• Identify the role of the nervous and endocrine systems in regulation and integration.

• Demonstrate laboratory skills in measuring physiological parameters.

• Interpret data from laboratory experiments and relate findings to clinical practice.

• Discuss the effects of aging and disease on physiological systems.

Required Textbooks

Title	Author/Translator	Publisher	ISBN	Year
Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach	Dee Unglaub Silverthorn	Pearson	978-0-13-460519-7	2019
Human Anatomy & Physiology	Elaine N. Marieb, Katja Hoehn	Pearson	978-0-13-476316-3	2019
A & P Applications Manual	Frederic H. Martini, Maureen Knutson	Pearson	013-521-121-2	2015

Grading Policy

Letter	G.E.	Score	Explanation
A	4.0	90-100%	Student performance is clearly outstanding and integrates concepts at a high level.
B	3.0	80-89%	Fundamental laboratory skills and knowledge are demonstrated proficiently.
C	2.0	70-79%	Basic performance; requires improvement in some areas.
D	1.0	60-69%	Limited Student abilities are demonstrated and does not meet course requirements.
F	0.0	Below 60%	Student did not pass course and does not meet course requirements.

Assignments & Evaluation

Assessment / Assignment	Evaluation
Homework Participation	10%
Quizzes	15%
Exams (4)	75%

Course Schedule and Topic Outline

Week	Content Objective	Readings/Pre-Lab	Assignments
1	Laboratory Introduction and Outcomes	Human Physiology Ch. 1	Lab activity #1, Project 1
2	Osmosis/Diffusion	Human Physiology Ch. 5	Lab activity #2
3	Review of Basic Chemistry, Acids and Bases	Human Physiology Ch. 2	Lab activity #3
4	Cellular Metabolism	Human Physiology Ch. 4	Lab activity #4
5	Endocrine System	Human Physiology Ch. 7	Lab activity #5
6	Neurons	Human Physiology Ch. 8	Lab activity #6
7	Special Senses/Autonomic Nervous System	Human Physiology Ch. 10, 11	Lab activity #7
8	Laboratory Exam 2		Lab Exam 2
9	Skeletal Muscle/Cardiovascular	Human Physiology Ch. 12, 14	Lab activity #8
10	Cardiovascular	Human Physiology Ch. 14	Lab activity #9
11	Blood flow mechanics	Human Physiology Ch. 15	Lab activity #10
12	Laboratory Exam 3/Respiratory	Human Physiology Ch. 17	Lab Exam 3
13	Urinalysis	Human Physiology Ch. 19	Project #2
14	Digestion and metabolism	Human Physiology Ch. 21, 22	Lab activity #11
15	Reproduction	Human Physiology Ch. 26	Lab activity #12
16	Laboratory Exam 4		Final Exam

Key Topics Covered (with Academic Context)

• Osmosis and Diffusion: Movement of water and solutes across membranes; essential for cellular homeostasis.

• Cellular Metabolism: Chemical reactions in cells, including energy production and utilization.

• Endocrine System: Hormonal regulation of physiological processes.

• Nervous System: Neuron structure, function, and communication; integration of sensory and motor pathways.

• Muscle Physiology: Mechanisms of muscle contraction and control of movement.

• Cardiovascular System: Heart function, blood flow, and regulation of blood pressure.

• Respiratory System: Mechanics of breathing, gas exchange, and transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

• Urinary System: Kidney function, urine formation, and fluid/electrolyte balance.

• Digestive System: Breakdown and absorption of nutrients; metabolic pathways.

• Reproductive System: Structure and function of male and female reproductive organs.

Important Definitions

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body.

• Diffusion: The passive movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to lower concentration.

• Osmosis: The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

• Action Potential: A rapid change in membrane potential that transmits signals along neurons.

• Hormone: A chemical messenger secreted by endocrine glands that regulates physiological processes.

Sample Equation

Nernst Equation (for equilibrium potential of ions):

$E_{ion} = \frac{RT}{zF} \ln \left( \frac{[ion]_{outside}}{[ion]_{inside}} \right)$

Where: $E_{ion}$ = equilibrium potential for the ion $R$ = universal gas constant $T$ = temperature in Kelvin $z$ = charge of the ion $F$ = Faraday's constant $[ion]_{outside}$ = extracellular concentration $[ion]_{inside}$ = intracellular concentration

Academic Integrity and Course Policies

• Attendance is mandatory; excessive absences may result in dismissal.

• Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

• Students with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations under the ADA.

• Grading is based on exams, quizzes, homework, and participation.

Additional Info:

• This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the laboratory course structure, expectations, and academic requirements for students in the Associate Degree in Nursing program.

• Students are encouraged to review assigned readings before each lab session and actively participate in all laboratory activities.