Clinical Infectious Disease

Catalog description

This system-based lecture course teaches PA students fundamental principles in epidemiology, physiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic testing, and treatment of disease states and conditions commonly encountered in the infectious disease system. The course builds upon the knowledge attained in previous clinical medicine courses and applies it to the recognition, evaluation, treatment and management of infectious disease. Appropriate ordering and interpretation of diagnostic tests and pharmacological treatment as related to the disease states presented are included. This course coordinates with the Patient Care course series to refine history taking and physical examination skills related to problem-specific encounters. Together, these evidence-based courses encompass initial presentation through follow-up care with a humanistic approach to a patient-centered medical model throughout the life span. Lectures present the most common clinical conditions (acute, emergent and chronic) seen by primary care providers. In addition, the course incorporates patient education, health promotion and disease prevention, and provides opportunities for the student to develop and refine critical thinking skills in preparation for clinical practice.