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School of Medicine
Selectives
Course Descriptions:
American Sign Language Selective
Anatomical Education – Dissection and Multimedia
Cardiopulmonary Life Support (ACLS)
Clinical, Ethical and Neuroscience Aspects of Pain
Community Health Selective
Complementary Medicine Selective
Gross Anatomy Special Dissection
Integrated Approach of Basic Science Related to the Head and Neck Area
International Health and Human Rights Selective in Honduras
International Spanish Experience
International Trauma Life Support (ITLS)
Medical Response to Disasters
Medical Spanish for Healthcare Professionals
Microbiology Selective
Pediatric Life Support (PALS)
The Prague Experience in Medicine
Radiological Anatomy
Regional Anatomical Dissection
Research Ethics
Surgery Selective
Thailand Medical Experience Selective
American Sign Language Selective
Robert Hage, MD, PhD, DLO, MBA
This one-credit selective is offered once a semester and will fall within the start/stop dates of the first-term semester. Ten (10) sessions are scheduled per semester. Students are expected to attend and actively participate twice a week in a one-hour session during which a teacher from the School for the Deaf will teach American Sign Language (ASL). Guest speakers will cover topics such as speech training, causes of deafness, prevention of deafness, and hearing aids. This will add to each session an element of theory and practical information related to deafness. Students are expected to practice their acquired sign language skills with each other between sessions and demonstrate some of their skills during each session. Video cassettes are available for viewing in the library. Visits to the School for the Deaf are recommended.
Anatomical Education – Dissection and Multimedia
Marios Loukas, MD, PhD
The key objective of this one-term, two credit-hour course is furthering the development and enhancement of online and offline anatomical sciences education and dissection of multimedia materials. The primary goal is to expand the competency of the students involved by allowing them to sharpen both their computing and their anatomy dissection skills. Participants may produce high quality prosections and educational materials for any anatomical sciences course, including gross anatomy, histology, embryology and undergraduate anatomy or a combination thereof, and develop a multimedia presentation. The multimedia presentation includes: 3D reconstructions, flash animations, cadaveric prosected animations, etc.
Cardiopulmonary Life Support (ACLS)
Aris Scott, MEd
During this course, students will enhance their skills in the treatment of the adult victim of a cardiac arrest or other cardiopulmonary emergencies. The students will learn current American Heart Association (AHA) algorithmic approaches to managing a patient from both a cognitive and skills based approach using didactic, video presentations and small groups. This course emphasizes the importance of basic life support CPR to patient survival; the integration of effective basic life support with advanced cardiovascular life support interventions; and the importance of effective team interaction and communication during resuscitation. ACLS is based on simulated clinical scenarios that encourage active, hands-on participation through learning stations where students will practice essential skills individually, as part of a team and as team leader. Realistic simulations reinforce the following key concepts: proficiency in basic life support care; recognizing and initiating early management of peri-arrest conditions; managing cardiac arrest; identifying and treating ischemic chest pain and acute coronary syndromes; recognizing other life-threatening clinical situations (such as stroke) and providing initial care; ACLS algorithms; and effective resuscitation team dynamics. Students who successfully pass both the skills-based and written evaluation will be awarded AHA ACLS certification.
Clinical, Ethical and Neuroscience Aspects of Pain
Katherine Yearwood, MD
Pain is an important symptom in medicine. However, until recently, pain management education has been minimal. The one-credit selective will introduce pain as a public health problem. It will cover the definition of pain, the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, and psychological, sociological and anthropological aspects of pain. The students will be taught to do a pain history and also to assess pain and pain relief. There will be an introduction to treatment options and finally a discussion of ethical issues related to pain management.
Community Health Selective
Chamarthy Subbarao, BSc, MBBS
In this four-week one-credit selective, students attend three lectures about orientation of the course including healthcare systems in Grenada, history taking and communication skills. Students attend the clinics under guidance of a Medical Officer. They participate in taking history from patients and observe the examination of these patients followed by discussions with the attending physician. They are required to keep a log of their activities and submit one detailed case history. A one-credit version with less time commitment is offered during the school term.
Complementary Medicine Selective
Jacqueline Stanley, PhD
This is a one-credit pass/fail complementary medicine selective that provides a comprehensive survey in various areas of complementary medicine. The primary goals and underlying methodologies of each of the complementary healthcare areas are addressed.
In addition, the strengths/weaknesses and the risk/cost of each area from a patient and healthcare point of view are examined. An important aspect of this complementary medicine selective is to have students understand how these healthcare areas can interact with and “complement” conventional medicine for optimal patient care. This selective relies heavily on visiting professors as well as local practitioners to deliver the material in a cohesive manner based on their own experiences in the various areas. The selective consists of three consecutive modules. Although each module is open to everyone, students who wish to receive credit on their transcript for this selective must register and attend three full modules. Each module consists of four lectures in the morning, and two different afternoon workshops. Furthermore, registered students must pass a short quiz that will be given at the end of each day.
Gross Anatomy Special Dissection
Robert Jordan, PhD
This one-term, two-credit course will give participants the opportunity to undertake detailed, professional-quality dissections of the human body. The ultimate objective is to allow students to dissect specific regions and/or organs of the human body in order to create “museum quality” specimens for teaching purposes. In so doing, students will learn the various techniques involved in the preparation of cadaveric material for display and teaching. These include dry bone/ligamentous preps, plastic embedding and various plastination procedures. Ultimately, the students’ overall knowledge of anatomy will be enhanced.
Integrated Approach of Basic Science Related to the Head and Neck Area
Robert Hage, MD, PhD, DLO, MBA
This one-credit selective is offered twice a year. The student will have two sessions per week for five weeks at the beginning of each semester. Visits to outside institutions are arranged during the semester according to preference and availability. Each student will receive a total of five case studies by email, and is expected to attempt to solve the problems before these cases are presented on Monday afternoons. On Thursday afternoons there will be sessions covering maxillofacial surgery, radiology, examination technique and demonstrations. Visits to the General Hospital operating room, Radiology Department, School for the Deaf, ENT clinic and special homes are opportunities for the student to gain valuable experience. A CD or ZIP disk must be provided by each student so that material related to the selective (clinical pictures, video clips, text) can be made available for home study.
International Health and Human Rights Selective in Honduras
Angela Gomez, PhD
This is a one-credit selective that takes place in Honduras. As there are fundamental differences between healthcare provision in developed and underdeveloped countries, a recognition and understanding of some of these issues should help to build partnerships and support international health efforts. Human rights are essential to the full attainment of health. Most traditional medical curriculums do not address this subject. This selective is designed to give students a fuller comprehension of the global aspects surrounding health and human rights. This selective is designed to promote a better understanding of the broad determinants of individual and population health, which can be applied to issues in Honduras and regionally to other developed countries. The core of the selective will be facilitated in Honduras by our relationship with ASONOG (Asociación de Organismos No Gubernamentales, the Association of Non-Governmental Organizations), a nonprofit organization which works throughout Honduras. ASONOG was founded in 1988 and works on the coordinating of objectives strengthening primary health services, developing local capacities in the prevention of illnesses and health promotion.
International Spanish Experience
Debbi Johnson, MA
The one-credit selective allows students to build and expand on medical Spanish language skills by participating in hands-on patient interaction in healthcare settings located in international settings. The Course Director assists with the identification and selection of a program that best meets students needs from a large variety of approved options available to them. All international programs have some degree of Spanish language immersion and practice opportunities throughout the selective. Settings will primarily focus on applying those skills to patient interiviews and basic medical care in clinics and hospital settings, participating in community health initiatives.
International Trauma Life Support (ITLS)
Theresa McCann, PhD
This course is offered at two levels, Advanced for students who are healthcare professionals, and Basic for all other students. During this course, students will enhance their knowledge and skills necessary to efficiently and effectively manage patients who are affected by trauma. The students will learn current International Trauma Life Support (ITLS) algorithmic approaches to managing a patient from both a cognitive and skills-based approach using didactic presentation, interactive skills stations and case scenarios. The ITLS course covers the skills necessary for rapid assessment, resuscitation, stabilization and treatment or transportation of trauma patients. Emphasized are the evaluation steps, and sequencing and techniques for resuscitation and packaging a patient. Realistic simulations reinforce the following key concepts: proficiency in basic life support care, basic and advanced airway, chest decompression and fluid resuscitation, spinal restriction/rapid extrication, short back board, helmet management, log roll and long back board, traction splints, patient assessment and management. Students who successfully pass both the skills-based and written evaluation will be awarded ITLS certification.
Medical Response to Disasters
Theresa McCann, PhD
During this course, students will enhance their knowledge and skills necessary to efficiently and effectively manage situations with multiple injured or ill persons in varied environments such as natural and man-made disasters. This program is designed to give medical professionals the skills needed to identify and respond to major terrorist events including chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) incidents along with major natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes and tsunamis. This program will cover the medical implications of these events and introduce current strategies for response. Realistic simulations reinforce the following key concepts: the use of personal protective equipment (level D and level C); recognition of and decontamination of patients affected by CBRN materials; Triage and Incident Command. Students who successfully pass both the skills based and written evaluation will be awarded Basic Responder CBRN certification.
Medical Spanish for Healthcare Professionals
Debbi Johnson, MA
This one-credit course will meet once a week for the entire term, and is designed primarily to meet the needs of medical students who anticipate contact with Spanish-speaking patients in their future. In the United States particularly, it has become an absolute necessity for healthcare providers to have at least a minimal understanding of the Spanish language in order to reduce frustrations stemming from the lack of ability to communicate with the nation’s fastest-growing non-English speaking group. In addition to the significant lack of control that healthcare providers feel at not being in command of the language of their patients, the predicament of non-English-speaking patients in need of medical care is of crucial concern as well. The course, which will be offered at the University’s main campus, will provide students with a basic introduction to Spanish grammar and sentence structure, as well as an overview of vocabulary for specific medical purposes. Students will be expected to have had some exposure to Spanish language instruction, as well as be in good academic standing in order for the more specialized medical instruction to be beneficial. The course will cover such topics as basic grammar skills, emergency medicine, a visit to the family practitioner, basic anatomy and dealing with sensitive cultural issues.
Microbiology Selective
Ateef Qureshi, PhD, Joanna Rayner, PhD
The laboratory component of the Medical Microbiology (PATH 570) course is the minimum required for future physicians who intend to practice in developed countries with automated, professional laboratory support. Students planning to serve in developing nations will benefit from the extra laboratory experience that will be provided by this two-credit course. Students who have an interest in infectious disease and diagnostic microbiology will also benefit from this course. The objectives of the course are to provide extensive practical hands-on laboratory-based experience, and foster an appreciation of the safe handling of infectious materials and/or microorganisms. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and either General Microbiology (BIOL 401) or Medical Microbiology (PATH 570) (pre- or co-requisite) as well as the permission of both the course director and Dean of Students. A minimum of four to five students should register for the course to be offered.
Pediatric Life Support (PALS)
Aris Scott, MEd
During this course, students will enhance their knowledge and skills necessary to efficiently and effectively manage critically ill infants and children, resulting in improved outcomes. The students will learn current American Heart Association (AHA) algorithmic approaches to managing a patient from both a cognitive and skills-based approach using didactic, video presentations and small groups. This course emphasizes the importance of basic life support CPR to patient survival; the integration of effective basic life support with pediatric advanced life support interventions; and the importance of effective team interaction and communication during resuscitation. PALS is based on simulated clinical scenarios that encourage active, hands-on participation through learning stations where students will practice essential skills individually, as part of a team and as team leader. Realistic simulations reinforce the following key concepts: proficiency in basic life support care; recognizing and initiating early management of peri-arrest conditions; recognition and treatment of infants and children at risk for cardiopulmonary arrest; the systematic approach to pediatric assessment; effective respiratory management; defibrillation and synchronized cardioversion; intraosseous access and fluid bolus administration; providing initial care; PALS algorithms; and effective resuscitation team dynamics. Students who successfully pass both the skills-based and written evaluation will be awarded AHA PALS certification.
The Prague Experience in Medicine
Martin Stransky, MD
This popular two-credit selective takes place in Prague, in the Czech Republic, during the last three weeks of July. Students are introduced to three teaching hospitals, as well as a private practice clinic with 25 physicians. The students gain exposure to both adult and pediatric settings, and participate in team discussions, teaching rounds, lectures and direct patient interaction. The thinking process that clinicians use when examining patients is introduced and discussed. Students assess the medical, cultural and economic forces impacting different medical systems. After this selective, students will have developed an increased awareness of the globalization of medicine, and expanded their perspectives and knowledge bases in patient care.
Radiological Anatomy
Robert Hage, MD, PhD, DLO, MBA
This two-credit course will give participants the opportunity to review the normal gross anatomical structure of the human body as seen in various radiological films such as x-ray film, MRIs and CT scans. A major emphasis will be placed on the clinical application of gross anatomy as it is related to the various imaging methods. Ultimately, the students’ overall knowledge of clinical anatomy will be enhanced.
Regional Anatomical Dissection
Robert L. Jordan, PhD
This one-term, two-credit course will give participants the opportunity to undertake detailed regional dissections of the human body. These regions include (1) Head and Neck; (2) Back and Thorax; (3) Extremities; and (4) Abdomen, Pelvis and Perineum. Each regional dissection will be limited to the appropriate area but need not be a complete dissection of all the structures within the topic area. The ultimate objectives are to give students the opportunity to dissect regions of the human body of particular interest, to obtain a deeper understanding of the anatomy of selected areas, and for detailed anatomical preparation to be created for future clinical aspirations.
Research Ethics
Cheryl Macpherson, PhD
This course fosters professional development, strengthens ethical sensitivity and reasoning ability, and enhances knowledge and understanding of the complexities of existing research ethics guidelines. This course focuses on the role of human participants and the intersection of research with clinical practice and public health. Students participate in seminars and case discussions involving international guidelines, therapeutic misconception, use of stored tissues, andcultural and socioeconomic factors that bear on international research collaborations. The ethics of authorship and plagiarism are explored. The course expands upon SGUSOM's required curriculum, enabling students to gain substantial insight into research ethics. Students responded favorably to the initial offering of the course in 2007. (One credit hour, Pass/Fail, SCSK 516).
Surgery Selective
Chamarthy Subbarao, BSc, MBBS
In this four-week, one-credit selective, students attend three lectures about history taking, communication skills, and the history and running of the Grenada Health Services. Students attend the clinics and surgical operations under guidance of a surgeon. They participate in taking history from patients and observe the examination of these patients followed by discussions with the attending surgeon. They observe the examinations and surgical operations in different specialties. They are required to keep a log of their activities and submit detailed case histories. A one-credit version with less time commitment is offered during the school term.
Thailand Medical Experience Selective
Michael Weitzman
Theresa McCann, PhD
The one-credit Thailand medical experience selective provides an introduction to the practice of health care and service in a Southeast Asian cultural context. The selective is a two-week experience for preclinical medical students during the summer, comprising a mixture of modern and traditional Thai medicine. It provides opportunities for students to observe alternative ways of practicing medicine within the Thai healthcare system and allows application of core knowledge to diverse modalities of care. Such an experience should increase cultural understanding of the similarities and differences between Western and Eastern heath care delivery. Opportunities for interaction and discussion with medical faculty and medical students and/or residents will be an important component of the selective. One week is spent at Mahidol University Faculty of Medicine and Siriraj Hospital, a modern facility in Bangkok. A second week is completed in a rural area learning Thai Traditional Massage.
