Advanced practice nurses must be equipped with an in-depth understanding of pathophysiological disease processes across the lifespan. In this course, students focus on understanding the bio-physiological processes, the deviations from these processes, and an in-depth examination of the scientific concepts related to the biology of disease processes. Advanced practice nursing students learn how normal organ systems function and how organ systems are interrelated to help the body maintain homeostasis.
Through knowledge of pathophysiological disease processes, students gain the information needed to develop appropriate treatment plans for patients across the life span. Students explore a variety of topics, such as immunity, inflammation, cancer genetics, and cardiovascular disease. They also examine a range of disease processes, including hematologic, renal, neurologic, gastrointestinal, and reproductive disorders.
Module 1: Foundational Concepts of Cellular Pathophysiology
What’s Happening This Module?
This course is composed of eight (8) separate modules. Each module consists of an overarching topic and each week within the module includes specific subtopics for learning. As you work through each module, you will draw upon the knowledge you gain by completing various Knowledge Checks and Case Study Assignments.
Module 1: Foundational Concepts of Cellular Pathophysiology is a 2-week module, Weeks 1 and 2 of the course. In this module, you will examine fundamental concepts of cellular processes and the alterations that lead to various diseases. You will evaluate the genetic environment and its impact on these diseases. You will also evaluate the impact of patient characteristics, including racial and ethnic variables, on physiological functioning.
What do I have to do? When do I have to do it?
Review your Learning Resources Days 1–7, Weeks 1 and 2
Discussion: Alterations in Cellular Processes Post by Day 3 of Week 1 and respond to your colleagues by Day 6 of Week 1.
Module 1 Assignment: Case Study Analysis You are encouraged to work on your Module 1 Assignment throughout the module. However, this Assignment is not due until Day 7 of Week 2.
Go to the Week’s Content
Week 1
Week 2
Week 1: Cellular Processes and the Genetic Environment
One of the more common biology analogies refers to cells as the “building blocks” of life. This rightfully places an emphasis on understanding cells, cellular behavior, and the impact of the environment in which they function.
Such an understanding helps explain how healthy cell activity contributes to good health. Just as importantly, it helps explain how breakdowns in cellular behavior and alterations to cells lead to health issues.
This week, you examine cellular processes that are subject to alterations that can lead to disease. You evaluate the genetic environments within which these processes exist as well as the impact these environments have on disease.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Evaluate cellular processes and alterations within cellular processes
Evaluate the impact of the genetic environment on disease
Learning Resources
Required Readings
McCance, K. L.