Overview
On completion of this unit, you will be able to evaluate the evidence base for biochemical tests used in the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases in the major organ systems of the body. Problem-solving and decision making skills will be developed through the use of authentic case studies. Skill development in instrument calibration, best practice measurement, interpretation of test results and test quality control monitoring will occur through practical exercises. You will be required to attend a residential school on the Rockhampton campus in order to promote the development of unit learning outcomes. The residential school may be scheduled outside of the term of offering of the unit.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
PrerequisiteEnrolment in Master of Laboratory Medicine.
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 1 - 2023
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Postgraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of 'pass' in order to pass the unit. If any 'pass/fail' tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully ('pass' grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the 'assessment task' section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University's Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure - International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback - Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
- Explain the various processes involved in biochemical method evaluation, interpretation and development
- Appraise the limitations of laboratory procedures and regulatory aspects including external quality assurance and accreditation bodies
- Describe the rationale and clinical correlation of specialised biochemical tests used in the detection and monitoring of processes affecting the major organ systems
- Demonstrate skills in the use of biochemical instrumentation including corrective action as required
- Evaluate biochemical clinical cases to derive a provisional diagnosis.
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
| 1 - Written Assessment - 20% | |||||
| 2 - Written Assessment - 30% | |||||
| 3 - Laboratory/Practical - 0% | |||||
| 4 - Examination - 50% | |||||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
| 1 - Knowledge | |||||
| 2 - Communication | |||||
| 3 - Cognitive, technical and creative skills | |||||
| 4 - Research | |||||
| 5 - Self-management | |||||
| 6 - Ethical and Professional Responsibility | |||||
| 7 - Leadership | |||||
| 8 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | |||||
Textbooks
Clinical Chemistry: Principles, Techniques, and Correlations
Edition: Ninth (2023)
Authors: Michael L. Bishop, Edward P. Fody, Carleen Van Siclen, James March Mistler, Michelle Moy,
Jones and Bartlett Learning
Burlington Burlington , Mass , USA
ISBN: 9781284238860
Binding: Hardcover
Additional Textbook Information
The prescribed textbook can be accessed online at the CQUniversity Library website. Access may be limited. If you would prefer your own copy, purchase either paper or eBook versions at the CQUni Bookshop here: http://bookshop.cqu.edu.au (search on the Unit code)
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
- Zoom (both microphone and webcam capability)
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing styles below:
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
g.burchall@cqu.edu.au
a.siddiq@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
- Analytical process, data interpretation and method evaluation
- Quality Control and External Quality Assessment
Chapter
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 3
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 3
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - Introduction
Module/Topic
1. Analytical techniques
2. Automation and POCT
Chapter
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 4, 5,
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 4, 5, 29
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
pH, Buffering systems and Blood Gases
Chapter
Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 12
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 2
Module/Topic
Renal Function
Chapter
Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 11 & 21
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 3
Module/Topic
Liver, Pancreas and Gastro Intestinal Tract
Chapter
Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 19 & 22
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 4
Module/Topic
No lecture
Chapter
N/A
Events and Submissions/Topic
No tutorial
Module/Topic
- Carbohydrates and Diabetes
- Lipids
Chapter
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 9
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 10
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 5
Case Report Due: Week 6 Monday (17 Apr 2023) 10:00 am AEST
Module/Topic
Endocrinology 1
Chapter
Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 6
Module/Topic
- Endocrinology 2
- Calcium and Bone
Chapter
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 13 - 18
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 11, 18
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 7
Module/Topic
Tumour Markers
Chapter
Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 28
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 8
Module/Topic
- Pregnancy
- Extremes of Age
Chapter
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 24
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 30 & 31
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 9
Module/Topic
- TDM and Toxicology
- Nutritional Assessment
Chapter
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 25 & 26
- Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Techniques and Correlations: 27
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 10
Module/Topic
REVISION
Chapter
N/A
Events and Submissions/Topic
Zoom tutorial - covering Week 11
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
As the name suggests, this unit will provide you with technical and applied knowledge of Chemical Pathology.
LMED28001 Chemical Pathology 1 is a core unit in one course:
CM18 - Master of Laboratory Medicine
Lectures and tutorials will be delivered each week at the Rockhampton campus, and students who are enrolled in either mixed mode or at the Melbourne campus will be able to join these classes via Zoom. These tutorials will also be recorded for the benefit of those students who are unable to attend the live lectures and tutorials. During the tutorials, you will work through the weekly study questions that are provided to you on the Moodle site. These weekly study questions will help you apply knowledge learned during the weekly lecture and prepare you for the assessments. You will get the most benefit from the tutorials if you watch/attend the weekly lectures beforehand and attempt the weekly study questions.
You are strongly encouraged to participate in tutorials, as studies have shown that students who attend the tutorials and participate in discussions have higher rates of success (Karnik et al., 2020). Weekly revision quizzes are also provided to
reinforce the knowledge you have gained from the lectures and to support your learning experience in this unit.
You will be provided an opportunity to explore how to apply the knowledge learnt in lecture material in a compulsory residential school (exact dates to be advised). This residential school is planned to take place outside of the standard teaching term and students will be advised of the dates when scheduled.
The Unit Coordinator for this Unit is Rob White who can be contacted by e-mail (r.b.white@cqu.edu.au) or via the Moodle forums.
If scheduled lectures or tutorials fall on a public holiday they will be pre-recorded and posted on the Moodle page.
The tutorials will summarise the weekly lecture content and provide an opportunity for you to discuss the lecture content.
I encourage you to engage with the tutorials preferably by attending in person or virtually via Zoom or if that is not possible review the video and post any questions on the Q&A Forum.
As per Australian educational standards, you are expected to commit 150 hours of engagement to your study of this unit. This is broken down as:
2 - 3 hours per week watching recorded lectures and revising the content through study notes
3 - 4 hours per week completing the weekly study questions on the unit's Moodle page
1 - 2 hours per week attending the weekly tutorial and reflecting on your answers to the weekly study questions
3 - 4 hours per week preparing your assessments or studying for your end of term test
1 Written Assessment
You will be provided with a clinical case study on the Moodle page.
You will be provided with information regarding the clinical presentation, patient history and specific biochemical parameters (provided by an automated analyser) for this clinical case study. You are required to write a report (around 2,500 words) using a case study approach describing the pathophysiology, specific biochemical profile characteristics observed that led to the provisional diagnosis, differential diagnoses and potential treatment options. You may also recommended further tests that will assist in confirming the diagnosis. Further details on the case, a template and an exemplar will be provided to you on the Moodle site to assist in preparation.
Week 6 Monday (17 Apr 2023) 10:00 am AEST
The case study report should be uploaded into Moodle.
Week 8 Monday (1 May 2023)
Feedback will be provided within two (2) weeks of submission.
The assessment task is marked according to how well you have met the specific requirements and in accordance with the criteria outlined below:
Presentation: The report is presented in the provided template with clarity of purpose and coherence of expression (spelling, grammar, syntax) in a clear and organised manner.
Abstract: Provides a clear overview and overall summary of the case study.
Introduction: Provides necessary background information and pathophysiology of the case. Does not discuss the final diagnosis rather supports the intended diagnosis via arguments.
Materials and Methods: Briefly describes all the methods used to aid in diagnosis. Discusses further tests to be employed in order to confirm the diagnosis.
Results: All data presented clearly with reference ranges. Layout is clear with further tests and expected results discussed.
Discussion: Clear discussion of the results with supporting arguments and reasoning for arriving at the final diagnosis.
References: Correct referencing system used with appropriate in-text references.
- Describe the rationale and clinical correlation of specialised biochemical tests used in the detection and monitoring of processes affecting the major organ systems
2 Written Assessment
Attendance at the Residential School / Laboratory is mandatory to pass the unit. This will be scheduled in CQUniversity's Term 3 and dates and times will be advised once scheduled.
You will be required to write a report in basic scientific journal format (from data generated and/or supplied during the residential schools). Scientific journal format typically contains the following elements:
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion/conclusions
- Limitations/future directions
This task requires you to complete a similar yet abbreviated format that only requires IMRAD (introduction, methods, results and discussion/limitations).
Introduction (20 marks): The introduction should be between 500–700 words in length and will provide the reader with sufficient information to understand why this study was performed and also provide any essential background information (with references to journal articles or text books) that is needed for interpretation of the results and discussion. It should conclude with a specific aim of the study. As a general guide—approximately 3–6 paragraphs with important and interesting background information that has been correctly referenced.
Methods (10 marks): There is no need to completely rewrite the methods section in detail. This section should be a brief summary approximately 1-2 paragraphs in length (100-200 words).
Results (10 marks): This section should contain the experimental results in summary form (means/SD), presented in either tables or graphs, not both. It is not enough just to use tables and graphs—you must also state the results referring to the table or figure. All tables and figures must be labelled appropriately. There should be no interpretation of results in this section—just state the results observed! Leave any interpretation to the discussion (200-400 words).
Discussion (40 marks): This section should be between 500-700 words in length and will provide an analysis and interpretation of the results of the study. The implication of your results should be discussed, referring back to statements made in your introduction. Alternative explanations should be offered if necessary especially for negative or unexpected results. Errors could also be discussed.
References (10 marks): All articles or texts referred to in the report need to be listed in this section. Referencing style should follow either the “Vancouver" or "Harvard” style as listed in the unit profile.
Writing Style/Presentation (10 marks): Reports should be clearly written in full sentences (not point form) using correct spelling and grammar. Abbreviations should be explained when first used. Any diagram (added from reference material) must be of good quality and sources must be acknowledged appropriately. The use of scientific writing style is important—peruse scientific journal entries. Of particular importance is clarity of written expression (clearly stated ideas and outcomes). The document should be in scientific journal format with well designed figures, graphs and tables where appropriate.
Due to be handed in 1 week after the completion of the residential school.
To be marked and returned 2 weeks after submission deadline.
Clarity of expression (spelling and grammar), the inclusion of key facts, accurate research, correct referencing, and clear diagrams will be important general criteria for performing well in this assessment item. The use of information contained solely within the study notes/practical support information will result in the awarding of a passing grade at best. In order to obtain higher marks information from other sources will be required. Students who use relevant information from other sources in their reports will be successful. As a guide, between 8 to 10 journal articles should be used! The failure to cite references in your assignments will result in you not achieving full value for your efforts.
- Appraise the limitations of laboratory procedures and regulatory aspects including external quality assurance and accreditation bodies
- Demonstrate skills in the use of biochemical instrumentation including corrective action as required
- Evaluate biochemical clinical cases to derive a provisional diagnosis.
3 Laboratory/Practical
Attendance at the Residential School / Laboratory is mandatory to pass the unit. This will be scheduled in CQUniversity's Term 3 and dates and times will be notified when scheduled.
You will be provided with a laboratory workbook on the Moodle page. This workbook will contain all the tasks that need to be completed during the residential school block. It will also contain a series of short questions and patient reports to be completed in relation to the authentic cases provided. Group experimental activities during the residential school will foster team work and provide hands-on experience of the biochemical techniques used in pathology laboratories. Completion of the workbook will evidence student engagement and understanding of the principles behind the Biochemical tests. Laboratory staff or demonstrators will assess your individual experimental capability during residential school to ensure your understanding of the learning outcomes.
Due to be handed in at the completion of the residential school
Due to be marked within 2 weeks following the residential school.
Residential school Workbook component:
Each section will have respective assigned marks as indicated on the provided workbook.
The Workbook is a PASS/FAIL Assessment.
The laboratory staff will provide immediate verbal feedback to you on the practical hands-on aspect of this assessment item.
The laboratory workbook template will contain the weighting of marks associated with the tasks and subsequent questions/reports to be completed
- Demonstrate skills in the use of biochemical instrumentation including corrective action as required
Examination
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
