PHYS30020 Respiratory Physiology

Academic Year 2024/2025

This module aims to provide physiology students with an in-depth understanding of respiratory physiology, covering the fundamental mechanisms of breathing, gas exchange, respiratory control, and the physiological responses to various challenges such as exercise, altitude, and respiratory diseases. The module will also explore the clinical aspects of respiratory function and introduce students to diagnostic techniques and treatments for respiratory disorders.

Show/hide contentOpenClose All

Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

Learning Outcomes: by the end of this module, students will be able to:

*Explain the mechanics of breathing and the physical principles governing respiratory function.
*Describe the process of gas exchange in the lungs and tissues, including the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
*Understand the neural and chemical regulation of respiration.
*Analyze the physiological adaptations of the respiratory system to exercise and high-altitude environments.
*Identify the pathophysiological changes in common respiratory diseases and understand their clinical implications.
*Utilise diagnostic tools and interpret results relevant to respiratory function.
*Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through case studies and practical sessions.

Indicative Module Content:

Introduction to Respiratory Physiology
-Overview of the respiratory system
-Structure and function of the respiratory tract
-Mechanics of breathing
-Lung volumes and capacities

Gas Exchange and Transport
-Diffusion of gases
-Oxygen and carbon dioxide transport
-Oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve
-Factors affecting gas exchange
-Regulation of Respiration

Neural control of breathing
-Chemical regulation (chemoreceptors and their responses)
-Respiratory centers in the brainstem
-Reflexes involved in respiration

Respiratory Adaptations
-Respiratory response to exercise and high altitude

Respiratory Pathophysiology
-Common respiratory diseases (asthma, COPD, pneumonia, lung cancer)
-Pathophysiological mechanisms
-Clinical manifestations and diagnosis

Diagnostic Techniques in Respiratory Physiology
-Spirometry and lung function tests
-Blood gas analysis
-Pulmonary function tests

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

20

Tutorial

12

Practical

6

Specified Learning Activities

20

Autonomous Student Learning

59

Total

117

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Small group lectures, interactive small group tutorials and practical sessions. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Pre-requisite:
PHYS20030 - Organ and Systems Physiology

Incompatibles:
MDSA10100 - Respiratory Biology, MDSA20200 - Respiratory Biology, PHTY20120 - Sci Of Human Perform II


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Individual Project: Students will complete a presentation on a respiratory related topic in term Week 12, Week 14 Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

20

No
Exam (In-person): End of term exam paper End of trimester
Duration:
2 hr(s)
Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

80

No

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn Yes - 1 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Online automated feedback
• Peer review activities
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback will be available at the request of the student following publication of final grades

Name Role
Dr Claire Robinson Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Julie Freeman Tutor
Professor Paul McLoughlin Tutor