Physician Assistant Studies Courses: Fall 2011



Physician Assistant Studies

PAS 301: Advanced Human Anatomy I

(2) Credit Hour(s)

Functional and applied human anatomy presented on a systemic basis. The course is divided into sections - general anatomical concepts, thorax, abdomen, perineum, and pelvis. This advanced course will go beyond basic anatomical concepts and emphasize in both lecture and laboratory sessions the functional anatomical relationship to pathological conditions commonly encountered in the primary care setting. The relationship between embryology and the study of pediatrics will be taught. Laboratory sessions will be organized using models and prosection cadavers. Small group interactions will be used to demonstrate problem-solving abilities related to clinical findings and physical examination. Prerequisites: Three year program acceptance; Co-requisites: PAS 301L, 302, 303, 312, 314. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 301L: Advanced Human Anatomy Laboratory

(0) Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Advanced Human Anatomy I. Required corequisite: PAS 301. (UG)


PAS 302: Clinical Microbiology/Immunology

(3) Credit Hour(s)

This course focuses on the anatomy, physiology, and relationships of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, viruses, and rickettsiae and helminths. Included are the systemic diseases caused by these organisms, control of microorganisms, the host-parasite relationship, and the establishment of disease. The immune system will be discussed in detail including resistance to disease, immunity and serology, and immune disorders. Co-requisites: PAS 301, 303, 312, 314. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 303: Medical Informatics

(2) Credit Hour(s)

The course covers the practical terminology needed for the medical interview, problem oriented medical record, anatomical structures, and physical examination. The use of computers in the health care setting will be explored and practical experience at accessing patient data will be provided. Students will also learn practical software applications. Students are introduced to the practice of medicine as a Physician Assistant with an emphasis on the profession's history, philosophy, and enabling legislation. Prerequisite: Three year program acceptance; Co-requisites: PAS 301, 302, 312, 314. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 304: Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine I

(5) Credit Hour(s)

This course provides an introduction to the study of the disease process. Emphasis has been placed on the integration of the essential anatomy, physiology, pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, and medical terminology relevant to medical problems encountered in the primary care setting. The differential diagnosis of symptoms and physical findings along with interpretation of laboratory and radiographic tests appropriate to each system is discussed. Topics to include problems of the respiratory tract, cardiology, hematology, endocrinology, nephrology, urology, and gastroenterology. The course will use both lecture and seminar formats. The student learns the general principles of diagnostic imaging and electrocardiography. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in PAS 301, 302, 303, 312, and 314; Co-requisites: PAS 306, 310, and 313. Offered Each Year (Spring). (UG)


PAS 305: Advanced Human Anatomy II

(2) Credit Hour(s)

This course is a continuation of PAS 301: Advanced Human Anatomy. Functional and applied human anatomy presented on a systemic basis. The course is divided into sections: head and neck, back, extremities, and neuroanatomy. This advanced course will go beyond basic anatomical concepts and emphasize in both lecture and laboratory sessions the functional anatomical relationship to pathological conditions commonly encountered in the primary care setting. The relationship between embryology and the study of pediatrics will be taught. Laboratory sessions will be organized using models and prosection cadavers. Small group interactions will be used to demonstrate problem-solving abilities related to clinical findings and physical examination. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in PAS 301, 302, 303, 312, and 314; Co-requisites: PAS304, 306, and 310. Offered Each Year (Spring). (UG)


PAS 305L: Advanced Human Anatomy II Lab

(0) Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Advanced Human Anatomy II. Required corequisite: PAS 305 (UG)


PAS 306: Physical Diagnosis I

(4) Credit Hour(s)

Emphasis will be placed on properly conducting a medical interview for problem definition and performing a complete physical examination. Both lecture presentations and laboratory instruction will be utilized to teach history taking and physical examination maneuvers. The laboratory portion includes practical hands-on sessions supervised by faculty in small group settings. Students develop the skills needed to obtain a thorough history and perform a total physical examination. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in PAS 301, 302, 303, 312, and 314; Co-requisites: PAS 304, 310, 306L. Offered Each Year (Spring). (UG)


PAS 306L: Physical Diagnosis I Laboratory

(0) Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Physical Diagnosis I. Required corequisite: PAS 306 (UG)


PAS 310: Pharmacology I

(2) Credit Hour(s)

This course is designed in sequence with the topics presented in Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine I and focuses on practical pharmacotherapeutics. Mechanisms of drug action, therapeutic uses, specific effects and toxicity, effects on organ systems, contraindications and drug interactions will be presented. Emphasis is placed on the most commonly used categories of drugs. Prerequisites: PAS 301, 302, 303, 312, and 314; Co-requisites: PAS 304, 306, and 313. Offered Each Year (Spring). (UG)


PAS 312: Clinical Laboratory Medicine

(2) Credit Hour(s)

This course focuses on basic laboratory procedures and physiology used to investigate clinical problems encountered in the primary care setting. In addition to office procedures, laboratory tests conducted in the hospital setting useful in making a diagnosis and evaluating treatment effectiveness will be emphasized. Tests relevant to hematology, chemistry, bacteriology, urinalysis, and immunology will be discussed, demonstrated, and performed. In addition to the laboratory experience, students will be exposed to interpreting case studies and laboratory reports. Prerequisite: Three year program acceptance; Co-requisite of PAS 301, 302, 303, and 314. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 312L: Clinical Laboratory Medicine Laboratory

(0) Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Clinical Laboratory Medicine. Required corequisite: PAS 312 (UG)


PAS 313: Preventive Medicine

(2) Credit Hour(s)

This course has been designed to provide the PA student with a functional understanding of prevention strategies employed in the primary care setting. Emphasis has been placed on applying appropriate interventions and services that have been proven effective in preventing disease and improving the human condition as it relates to the quality of life and longevity. In addition, nutrition will be a major focus on this course. The students will review the epidemiological distribution of disease and its sociologic implications. Prerequisites: PAS 301, 302, 303, 312, and 314; Offered Each Year (Spring). (UG)


PAS 314: Pathophysiology

(3) Credit Hour(s)

General concepts of disease are covered including degeneration and necrosis, inflammation and repair, fluid and coagulation disturbances, and general aspects of neoplasia. Disease entities in each organ system are studied with regard to causation, evaluation, and morphology of pathological changes. Prerequisite: Three year program acceptance; Co-requisites: PAS 301, 302, 303, and 312. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 410: Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine II

(5) Credit Hour(s)

This course is a continuation of PAS 304: Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine I. Topics include gynecology, obstetrics, psychiatry, infectious disease, neurology, ophthalmology, cardiology and rheumatological disorders. The anatomy, physiology, and concepts of physical diagnosis relating to each system are reviewed. The pathophysiology of disease states, differential diagnosis of symptoms and physical findings along with interpretation of laboratory and radiographic tests appropriate to each system is discussed. Both pediatric and geriatric problem correlations will be presented in appropriate context. The course will use both lecture and seminar formats. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all PAS 300 level courses; Co-requisites: PAS 411, 412. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 411: Physical Diagnosis II

(4) Credit Hour(s)

This is a continuation of PAS 306: Physical Diagnosis II. The lecture course introduces the student to the concepts and techniques of medical interviewing, of obtaining an accurate history, and of performing a complete and thorough physical examination. The proper written recording of clinical data as well as the oral presentation of clinical findings will be stressed. Clinical bedside teaching experiences will be scheduled using individual and small group formats. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all PAS 300 level courses; Co-requisites: PAS 410, 412. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 411L: Physical Diagnosis II Laboratory

(0) Credit Hour(s)

Laboratory techniques for Physical Diagnosis II. Required corequisite: PAS 411. (UG)


PAS 412: Pharmacology II

(2) Credit Hour(s)

This course is a continuation of PAS 310: Pharmacology I and designed in sequence with Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine II. Also included are practical prescription writing and legalities of prescription writing as they pertain to Physician Assistants. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all PAS 300-level courses; Co-requisites: PAS 410, 411. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 413: The Cultural and Psychosocial Dynamics of Medicine

(3) Credit Hour(s)

Topic areas will include clinical decision-making and problem solving, domestic violence, rape, death and dying, sexuality issues, substance abuse, HIV and other special topics. A critical review of selected readings will be required for seminar discussions. Students are introduced to concepts in health psychology and behavioral medicine, which identify the cultural and psychosocial factors contributing to health, physical and emotional well being. Defenses and adaptations are discussed as related to the types of patients the students will work with. Other psychological responses to acute and chronic illness, and death and dying, and to the psychology of the handicapped are discussed as they relate to the patient and the medical practitioner. Students are introduced to the techniques of modeling and role-playing and are required to participate in the roles of health care practitioner, patient and family member. Emphasis is placed on establishing a relationship, and understanding the effects of culture and personality types. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all PAS 300-level courses. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 414: Medical Professional Issues

(3) Credit Hour(s)

This seminar course is designed specifically for the PA student covering the following topic areas: the PA role and legal standing in US health care, federal programs and initiatives in health care delivery, payment mechanisms and reimbursement policies, rural health care, public health care, community resources, and risk management and quality assurance. A critical review of selected readings will be required for seminar discussions. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all PAS 300 level courses. Offered Each Year (Fall). (UG)


PAS 501: Clinical Pediatrics

(2) Credit Hour(s)

This course is an introduction to the study of pediatric medicine. It is designed to provide the PA student with a functional understanding of the pediatric exam, growth, development, and disease processes as they relate to the infant and child. Through integration of the basic and clinical sciences, the PA student will become acquainted with neonatology, as well as, pediatric cardiology, hematology, nephrology, urology, orthopedics, infectious diseases, gastroenterology, surgery, and psychiatry. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all PAS 400 level courses. Offered Each Year (Spring). (GR)


PAS 502: Clinical Problem Solving

(3) Credit Hour(s)

This course consolidates all the topics of medicine by developing a logical methodology of assessment of disease processes or syndromes, and subsequent intervention. Students will master the ability to generate a differential diagnosis specific to the patients' presenting complaints, signs and symptoms and laboratory data. A case study format is used. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all PAS 400-level courses. Offered Each Year (Spring). (GR)


PAS 503: Surgery and Orthopedics

(3) Credit Hour(s)

This course encompasses general principles related to the management and care of patients with surgical conditions. Wound healing and surgical techniques, pre- and post-operative management are studied. Surgical diseases of the head and neck, gastrointestinal, endocrine, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and urogenital system are covered. Basic procedures will be presented, including basic suturing technique, wound care, casting, splinting, aseptic technique, gowning and gloving, and other procedures necessary to function in the surgical setting. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all PAS 400-level courses. Offered Each Year (Spring). (GR)


PAS 504: Geriatrics

(2) Credit Hour(s)

This course deals with aging and long term care and continues building on the student's awareness of the social context in which health care is provided to the elderly and chronically ill. The course emphasizes the development of communication skills necessary to enhance the humanistic practice of geriatric medicine. Students are required to interview chronic and acute geriatric patients in nursing home and acute care hospital settings. Through required readings, lectures, field experience and group discussions, the students will learn the fundamentals of geriatric medicine and the multi-dimensional aspects of long term care. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all PAS 400-level courses. Offered Each Year (Spring). (GR)


PAS 505: Emergency Medicine

(3) Credit Hour(s)

Initial, life-saving procedures on the critically ill and seriously injured are considered. Shock, trauma, burns, gastrointestinal, obstetrical, gynecologic, pulmonary, and cardiovascular emergencies are covered. Students are certified in advanced cardiac life support (ACLS). Students learn the principles of sterile technique and universal precautions. There are hands-on sessions in phlebotomy, IV therapy, injections, placing foley catheters, and NG tubes. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all PAS 400- level courses and BLS CPR certification. Offered Each Year (Spring). (GR)


PAS 506: Research Methodology

(3) Credit Hour(s)

Fulfills core competency: Information Literacy. Together with PAS-612 and PAS-613, combination of all three courses meet Research & Presentation requirement. Engaging in the process of clinical research design, students will develop skills that are necessary for reviewing objective data as a component of clinical practice. Students will identify a research question relevant to the practice of medicine and critically review the relevant clinical and scientific literature. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all 400 level courses. Required Corequisite: PAS-507. Offered Each Year (Spring). (GR)


PAS 507: Preliminary Writing for Research

(1) Credit Hour(s)

Writing Intensive. This course is a required co-requisite to PAS-506. (GR)


PAS 601: Clerkship I

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 602: Clerkship II

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 603: Clerkship III

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 604: Clerkship IV

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 605: Clerkship V

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 606: Clerkship VI

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 607: Clerkship VII

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 608: Clerkship VIII

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 609: Clerkship IX

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 610: Clerkship X

(3) Credit Hour(s)

As part of a comprehensive and coordinated 40 week clinical schedule, each four (4) week full-time clinical clerkship is designed to offer the PA student supervised clinical experiences in one or more of the following areas: family medicine, internal medicine, medical specialties, pediatric and adolescent medicine, prenatal care, gynecology, surgery, surgical specialties, emergency medicine, psychiatry/behavioral medicine, and geriatrics. (GR)


PAS 612: Research I

(1) Credit Hour(s)

Fulfills core competency: Information Literacy; Writing Intensive. Together with PAS-506 and PAS-613, combination of all three courses meet Research & Presentation requirement. During the summer semester of the clinical year the student will apply concepts reviewed in PAS 506 Research Methodology and develop an evidence-based clinical practice project. Prerequisite: PAS 506. Offered Each Summer (GR)


PAS 613: Research II

(1) Credit Hour(s)

Fulfills core competency: Information Literacy; Writing Intensive. Together with PAS-506 and PAS-612, combination of all three courses meet Research & Presentation requirement. During the spring semester of the clinical year the student will apply concepts reviewed in PAS 506 Research Methodology and complete an evidence-based clinical practice project. Prerequisite: PAS 612. Offered Each Summer (GR)


PAS 614: Clinical Seminar I

(2) Credit Hour(s)

As a supplement to the experience and knowledge gained through the completion of approximately 2000 hours of clinical clerkship, students enrolled in the final year of the Daemen College PA Program prepare for clinical practice and the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) through the use of computer tutorials, group "call back day," lectures, case presentations, and on-site faculty evaluation/mentoring. All students assigned to clinical clerkships will register for one, two-credit seminar each semester. Offered Summer, Fall, and Spring. (GR)


PAS 615: Clinical Seminar II

(2) Credit Hour(s)

As a supplement to the experience and knowledge gained through the completion of approximately 2000 hours of clinical clerkship, students enrolled in the final year of the Daemen College PA Program prepare for clinical practice and the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) through the use of computer tutorials, group "call back day," lectures, case presentations, and on-site faculty evaluation/mentoring. All students assigned to clinical clerkships will register for one, two-credit seminar each semester. Offered Summer, Fall, and Spring. (GR)


PAS 616: Clinical Seminar III

(2) Credit Hour(s)

As a supplement to the experience and knowledge gained through the completion of approximately 2000 hours of clinical clerkship, students enrolled in the final year of the Daemen College PA Program prepare for clinical practice and the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) through the use of computer tutorials, group "call back day," lectures, case presentations, and on-site faculty evaluation/mentoring. All students assigned to clinical clerkships will register for one, two-credit seminar each semester. Offered Summer, Fall, and Spring. (GR)