August 14, 2023-September 15, 2023
Course Director
Jenifer Lee, MD
Professor
Department of Medicine
leeje@upmc.edu
Course Description
The Cardiovascular course covers the anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology and pathophysiology of the cardiovascular system and integrates these basic disciplines with the clinical presentation, physical examination, laboratory diagnosis and treatment of patients with cardiovascular disease.
Course Objectives
- To understand normal cardiac anatomy, cardiovascular physiology, and cardiac electrophysiology.
- To gain a basic comprehension of common pathophysiological conditions which affect the cardiovascular system.
- To know the mechanisms of action and clinical uses of common-cardiovascular medications.
- To learn the physical findings, clinical presentation, diagnostic tools and basic treatments used in the management of cardiovascular disease.
Educational Methods
Educational methods are summarized below. The APE cardiovascular physical diagnosis sessions are taught using a computer-based cardiac ascultation simulation software.
- Lectures
- Web-based module
- Problem-based learning
- Small-group workshops
- Self-study
Evaluation
Evaluation for this course is based on two examinations: 1) the midterm exam counts toward 30% of the final course grade 2) the final exam accounts for 50% of the final grade. In addition, small group workshop attendance accounts for 20% of the total grade. Grading for small group sessions: 0 unexcused absences (100%), 1 unexcused absence (80%), 2 unexcused absences (60%), 3 unexcused absences (0%). Workshop attendance is mandatory.
Grading for this course is Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. The cutoff score for passing this course is 60%.
Requests for excused absences should be submitted here. Unexcused absences may result in grading penalties as outlined in the Policy on Absence and Attendance.