Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 301138

Coordinator Mark Williams Opens in new window

Description This subject, which is primarily book-based, will comprehensively provide the student with the fundamental concepts of toxicology as they relate to specific organ and tissue systems. We aim to supplement this information with online study guides, detailed module objectives and critical thinking exercises using online journal articles. The objective of this subject is to familiarize students with many of the most important toxic substances, their toxic effects, and ways to treat poisoned patients. Several example toxicants are presented and discussed in detail.. There are literally tens of thousands of chemicals in commerce, and nature offers even greater numbers of chemicals to which individuals are exposed. According to the basic tenets of toxicology, any of these substances in sufficient doses is toxic, although some clearly are of greater health concern than others. The objective of this subject is to provide the student with information on the toxic properties of selected chemicals to illustrate principles regarding mechanisms of toxicity, the array of signs and symptoms associated with intoxication, approaches to clinical assessment of poisoning, and methods of treatment. Examples have been selected from several chemical classes and include agents that may be encountered occupationally, environmentally, in medicine, or in the context of substance abuse. This subject is taught by the University of Florida as part of a collaborative venture between the University of Florida and Western Sydney University. Note: Further information on this subject is available from the University of Florida.

School Science

Discipline Forensic Science

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Level Postgraduate Coursework Level 7 subject

Pre-requisite(s) NATS 7030

Restrictions

Students must be enrolled in 3741 Master of Forensic Science, 3742 Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science or 3743 Graduate Certificate in Forensic Science.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. Comfortably navigate the WWW and know how to locate and use web-based resources for their interest and further education
2. Understand the nature of acute, chronic, immediate and delayed symptoms of poisoning from drugs and chemicals
3. Understand the mechanisms by which the example drugs and chemicals produce toxic effects
4. Understand the use of laboratory tests to assist in the diagnosis and management of poisoned patients
5. Understand the circumstances in which individuals are typically poisoned with these agents
6. Understand the general approach to the treatment of chemical intoxication
7. Understand specific treatments available for the example toxicants and the mechanisms by which these treatments are effective
8. Use web based tools for communication and for the education of themselves and others

Subject Content

Module 1 Principles of Managing the Poisoned Patient
Module 2 Carbon Monoxide
Module 3 Cyanide and Hydrogen Sulfide
Module 4 Acetaminophen
Module 5 Salicylates
Module 6 Opiods
Module 7 Cocaine
Module 8 Amphetamines
Module 9 Ethanol
Module 10 Arsenic
Module 11 Lead
Module 12 Mercury
Module 13 Organophosphate Pesticides
Module 14 Hydrocarbons
Module 15 Envenomation: Snakes and Other Reptiles