Division of Veterinary Physiology
FACULTY OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
Division of Cell Sciences
VETERINARY PHYSIOLOGY –II
CURRICULUM FOR THE DEGREE OF BVMS
COURSE INFORMATION
2005 –2006
COURSE LEADER:
QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER:
I A JEFFCOATE
F DOWELL
1
Course Information 2005-2006
INFORMATION FOR SECOND YEAR VETERINARY PHYSIOLOGY COURSE
ACADEMIC YEAR 2005-2006
PLEASE NOTE
Items contained within this Course Information Document are sometimes unavoidably subject to
change. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they are aware of the correct lecture, practical,
tutorial and examination schedules. Lecture venues may be changed during the Course. The Year
Notice boards and email should be checked daily.
In light of student feedback and External Examiner comments the following changes have been made:
Code of Professional Conduct to Fitness to Practice. You are reminded that you will be expected to
have read the above code, sign for it and implemented during your time in the course
CONTENTS
PAGE NO
1.
PLACE OF COURSE IN BVMS DEGREE CURRICULUM
3
2.
AIMS OF THE COURSE
3
3.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE
3
4.
COMPONENTS OF THE COURSE
4-9
4.1 Respiration
4.2 Cardiovascular Physiology
4.3 Gastrointestinal Physiology
4.4 Endocrinology
4.5 Reproduction
4.6 Renal Physiology
4.7 Manipulation of Physiological systems with Pharmacological
Agents
4.8 Welfare & Ethics Module
4.9 Revision Tutorials
5.
COURSE CONTENT
9
6.
COURSE TEXTS AND RECOMMENDED READING
10
7.
TEACHING HOURS AND TEACHING METHODS
10-11
8
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
8.1 The Course
11
8.2 Class Examinations
11-12
8.3 Professional Examinations
12-14
8.4 Name of External Examiner(s)
15
8.5 Prizes and Awards
15
8.6 Marking and Oral Examination Procedures for Second
Year Professional Examination in Veterinary Physiology
15
9.
POLICY ON EXEMPTIONS AND COURSE CERTIFICATION
15-16
10.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
10.1 Protective Clothing Health & Safety
16-17
10.2 Staff & Student Liaison
17-18
10.3 Division of Veterinary Physiology & Veterinary
Pharmacology Staff
18
10.4 Moodle
18-19
10.5 Class Timetables
19
11. EXAMPLE OF CLASS EXAMINATION PAPERS
19
12. ESSENTIAL COMPETENCES REQUIRED OF THE VETERINARY
20-21
SURGEON
13. ESSENTIAL COMPETENCES REQUIRED OF THE NEW VETERINARY
GRADUATE
21-23
2
Division of Veterinary Physiology
PLACE OF THE COURSE IN THE BVMS DEGREE CURRICULUM
Physiology is the study of the living organism; of its cells and organs and the process which
regulate their activity. In order to understand the function of an organ it is essential to
understand its structure and for this reason Veterinary Physiology and Anatomy are taught
together and strive to be as integrated as possible. Veterinary Medicine is the study of
abnormal functions of the body so it is important to understand normal physiology in order to
understand the mechanisms of disease.
The Veterinary Physiology course is given during all three terms of second year.
1.
AIMS OF THE COURSE
The aim of the course is to present the principles of physiology as they apply to the body
systems of domestic animals and develop an appreciation of the importance of veterinary
physiology within the veterinary curriculum and its relevance to the study of veterinary
medicine.
2.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE
On completion of the course you should have an understanding of the physiology of each of the
major organs or organ systems of the body. You will understand how the functions of these
systems are regulated to maintain a steady state within the organism as a whole. You will have
an understanding of some of the diseases which may affect each organ system and result in
disruption of the steady state, particularly pertaining to common domestic animals. You will
have studied mainly mammalian systems but you will have been introduced to some
comparative physiology.
3.
COMPONENTS OF THE COURSE
The course is organised on a systems basis, each organ and organ system being dealt with in
turn. Generally the Veterinary Anatomy course covers the same material and an effort is made
to start each topic a few days ahead of the Physiology course. Major body processes such as
respiration, circulation, digestion, reproduction and excretion are dealt with in Second Year.
Class examinations are held at the end of Martinmas and Candlemas Terms in second year, to
test student knowledge of the work of that term. Degree examination is held in Whitsun term
of second year to test student knowledge of the year’s work or of all two year’s work
respectively. The degree exam has to be passed in order to progress with the course.
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Course Information 2005-2006
4.1
Respiration - Dr Jeffcoate
Aims
To describe the functions and mechanism of action of the respiratory system and the control
processes which ensure optimal gas exchange.
Learning Objectives
It is important that the following concepts are clearly understood:
 The definition of respiration and the need for gaseous exchange.
 Pulmonary structure in relation to its function.
 Respiratory mechanics and innervation.
 Gas exchange and gas transport processes in mammals.
 Adequate alveolar ventilation, hypoxia, hypercapnoea.
 Optimal ventilation perfusion properties.
 Respiratory acid/base adjustment.
Lectures
The course comprises 10 lectures and 2 practical classes.
 By way of introduction, the first lecture provides definitions of internal vs external
respiration and describes the airway, divided into respiratory and non-respiratory portions;
the concept of alveolar ventilation and dead space; air movement, bulk flow vs gaseous
diffusion and the pulmonary vs bronchial circulation.
 Lecture 2 describes alveolar surface tension, surfactant, the work of breathing and the
pressure volume curve.
 In the third lecture, the physical properties of gases in air and water and the concept of gas
partial pressure/tension are described. There is also a discussion of the origin of water
vapour in alveolar air, the effects water evaporation on O2 tension at various points in the
respiratory tract and insensible water loss.
 A model of the systemic/pulmonary circulations is discussed with typical tensions and
diffusion gradients.
 The next three lectures describe blood O2 transport, haemoglobin and its dissociation curve
and the effects of pH, 2,3DPG and CO2; CO2 transport, acid/base aspects and effects of
buffering on O2 loading and unloading; ventilation/perfusion ratios and hypoxia.

The next 3 lectures describe the maintenance of adequate alveolar ventilation and the
involvement of central and peripheral chemoreceptors.
The final lectures deal with non-respiratory functions of the lungs and the role of the
respiratory system in acid-base balance.

Laboratory Classes - Dr. Jeffcoate
Two half-day classes will help students develop an appreciation of some fundamental
respiratory data obtained through physiological measurement on themselves.
 The first class is a computer-aided learning (CAL) package in the Veterinary School
Computer Cluster. Students will measure respiration rate, volumes, gas compositions;
adjust data for variations in water content and temperature, and measure changes associated
with various respiratory manoeuvres.
 The second class is laboratory-based and allows students to investigate the effects of
exercise on various respiratory and circulatory variables.
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Division of Veterinary Physiology
4.2
Cardiovascular Physiology - Prof. O’Shaughnessy & Dr. C. Loughrey
Aims
To develop an overall understanding of the functions of the cardiovascular system in domestic
animals.
Learning Objectives
It is important that the following are understood.
 Arrangement and differences between the pulmonary and systemic circulations.
 Electrical activity of the heart. The specialised conduction system of the heart and its
dysfunctions.
 The basis of the electrocardiogram and its applications in veterinary medicine.
 The cardiac pump. The role of cardiac valves.
 The changes in pressure and flow associated with the cardiac cycle.
 Regulation of heart rate by intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
 Basic haemodynamics including the relationships between velocity and pressure, flow and
resistance.
 The peripheral circulation and the intrinsic and extrinsic factors controlling blood flow.
 Neural and hormonal control of blood pressure and blood volume.
 Integrated cardiovascular responses to exercise, haemorrhage and heart failure.
Lectures
There are twelve lectures in the course:
 An introductory lecture which describes the veterinary significance of cardiovascular
physiology, the basis of the electrocardiogram and its applications in clinical work.
 The second lecture covers the arrangement of the pulmonary and systemic circulations and
the differences in pressure, flow and volume and revises cardiac muscle physiology with
particular reference to the cardiac pacemaker cells and the conducting system.
 The third lecture describes the changes associated with the cardiac cycle and the
relationships between changes in pressure in the aorta, atria and ventricles, cardiac valves
and sounds, and the ECG.
 The fourth lecture discusses regulation of the heartbeat including factors influencing heart
rate and stroke volume.
There is discussion of intrinsic regulation of myocardial
performance and the Frank-Starling mechanism; and extrinsic regulation through the
autonomic nervous system and other influences.
 The fifth and sixth lectures provide an understanding of haemodynamics and explain how
the principles of fluid mechanics can be used to explain the inter-relationships among
velocity of blood flow, blood pressure and the dimensions of the various components of the
systemic circulation. Resistance and blood, arterial and pulse pressures are defined and
discussed. The principles of methods to measure blood pressure are described.
 Lectures seven and eight discuss the control of cardiac output and the factors influencing
cardiac output, through changes in heart rate and stroke volume. The neural and hormonal
control of blood pressure and blood volume through various reflexes are also discussed.
 The ninth and tenth lectures discuss the microcirculation and the role of capillaries. The
causes of oedema are revised. The intrinsic and extrinsic control of blood flow in the
peripheral circulation are described.
 The eleventh lecture describes the special circulations, their measurement and the factors
regulating blood flow.
 The final lecture describes the integrated cardiovascular responses to exercise,
haemorrhage and heart failure.
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Course Information 2005-2006
Laboratory classes
 During the first class students will record electro-cardiographs of themselves and dogs
looking at effects of heart rate changes and abnormalities on normal rhythmic appearance
of ECG components.
 The second is a CAL package. Students will study various aspects of circulation using as
analogies fluid flow in tubes and various pumped circuits. Factors contributing to capillary
pressure will also be recorded.
 The third class is the exercise class described above in Respiration. Cardiovascular and
respiratory changes due to exercise will be investigated using students as subjects.
4.3
Gastrointestinal Physiology - Dr. Jeffcoate
Aims
To describe structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract with an emphasis on comparative
physiology.
Learning Objectives
It is important that students have a thorough understanding of the principal features of
gastrointestinal physiology in monogastric and ruminant species of domestic mammals with
particular regard to digestion. There are four main themes to this course:



Regulation of gastrointestinal function, neutral vs endocrine pathways.
The function, composition and control of gastrointestinal secretion.
Digestion and absorption vs fermentation and absorption. The ruminant and hind-gut
fermentor.
Function, nature and control of movements of the gastrointestinal tract.

Lectures
The course in gastrointestinal physiology is given concurrently with the course given by
Veterinary Anatomy on the digestive tract.
 The first lecture provides an overview of gut activities. This and the following two
lectures then describe the composition, function and control of secretions into the buccal
cavity, stomach and intestine of monogastric animals.
 The following two lectures describe movements of the gastrointestinal tract, including
prehension, deglutition, gastric movements, vomition, intestinal motility including the
mechanics and control of peristalsis, mixing movements and the migrating myoelectric
complex (MMC).
 Three lectures are devoted to the special features of the ruminant gastrointestinal tract.
This includes salivary function, movements and control of the reticulorumen and the
specialised reflexes of rumination, eructation and the reticular groove. The movements
and secretions of the omasum are described. Special features of motility and secretion of
the abomasum, small intestine and large intestine are discussed.
 One lecture describes the special features of gastrointestinal physiology in non-ruminant
herbivores such as the horse and rabbit. The pathophysiology of some common disorders
of the gastrointestinal tract of domestic animals is discussed.
Laboratory Classes
One half-day class split between large animal clinicians and Dr. Jeffcoate combines animal
demonstration and video to demonstrate various aspects of gastrointestinal motility/physiology
and normal/abnormal function in ruminants.
6
Division of Veterinary Physiology
4.4
Endocrinology – Dr. Jeffcoate
Aims
To revise endocrine systems presented in 1st Year.
Learning Objectives
It is important that students are aware of the interactions between neural and endocrine systems
in maintaining homeostasis.
One Lecture
Review of endocrine systems but not reproduction.
4.5
Reproduction - Dr. Mihm
Aims
To describe the reproductive processes in male and female mammals with particular reference
to endocrine control.
Learning Objectives
It is important that students understand the following concepts and are aware of their veterinary
significance:
 The dual endocrine and gametogenic roles of the gonads
 The endocrine control of reproductive cycles
 The functions of the reproductive tract and its dependence upon gonadal steroids
 Sexual differentiation and the functions of the gonadal steroids in phenotypic sex and
behaviour
 Gametogenesis, fertilisation and early embryonic development
 Maternal recognition of pregnancy, the endocrine changes occurring during pregnancy,
parturition and resumption of cyclicity postpartum.
 Mammary gland development and function
Lectures
There are 13 lectures, 8 on female reproductive physiology, 2 on lactation (1 of which is given
by a guest lecturer) and 3 lectures on male reproduction and sexual differentiation (given by
Prof. O’Shaughnessy).
 The first lecture introduces the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis; the integral function
of hypothalamic GnRH release in controlling pituitary gonadotrophin secretion and, thus,
ovarian function is discussed. This is followed by an overview of the central role of the
ovary in reproduction, and possible veterinary interventions to manipulate gonadal function
are mentioned.
 The next three lectures concentrate on the discussion of cyclicity in our domestic species.
Description of the different phases of the oestrous cycle is followed by a detailed
demonstration of follicular development to the antral stage and beyond. Dependencies of
ovarian steroid production on the endocrine and local ovarian environment are shown,
different mechanisms of ovulation are introduced and the phenomenon of seasonality is
explained. Throughout the lectures a comparative approach is adopted, which includes
ovarian function in primates and human.
 The subsequent two lectures deal with the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in
our domestic species. Early embryonic development and placentation are described and
the different mechanisms adopted for maternal recognition of pregnancy are explained in
detail. An overview is given of endocrine changes occurring throughout pregnancy and the
immunological and nutritional role of the placenta.
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Course Information 2005-2006

One lecture follows which compares the changes in the steroid environment during the final
stages of pregnancy in various species and discusses how this impacts on mechanisms
employed to cause the onset of parturition; neuro-endocrine reflexes and stages of labour
are described in detail.
The following lecture describes the postpartum period, which comprises not only uterine
regeneration, but also resumption of ovulatory activity. A comparative approach is chosen
to demonstrate how postpartum, lactational and nutritional anoestrus can interact and
prolong the postpartum period in our domestic species. The annual reproductive cycle of a
dairy cow acts as a summative review of all reproductive processes detailed in this lecture
course.
The onset and maintenance of lactation are the subject of the final two lectures;
development and involution of the mammary gland and its secretory function are described,
as well as endocrine dependencies for development and function, followed by the neuroendocrine pathway of milk ejection. The guest lecture describes cellular mechanisms of
hormone interactions culminating in an increased milk production and discusses various
commercially viable mechanisms to increase annual milk yield and manipulate the
individual lactation curve.
Two lectures are given on male reproductive endocrinology, spermatogenesis and
reproductive tract function.



4.6
Renal Physiology - Dr. Jeffcoate
Aims
Basic renal physiology was given in First Year. The aims of this section are to describe the
roles of the kidney in water balance, excretion and acid-base balance, emphasising links
between the kidney and cardiovascular system.
Learning Objectives
It is important that the following are understood:
 Functions of the kidney in water balance and osmolarity and regulation of ECF volume and
plasma volume.
 The basic renal processes, their effects and control.
 An appreciation of how changes in renal function can be associated with diseases of
domestic animals.
Lectures
There are 5 lectures in this course.
 The renal processes associated with body fluid/plasma volume regulation are described.
 A single lecture on osmoregulation is given to review mammalian osmoregulation and the
comparative aspects of osmoregulation in fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals
living in different environments.
 Two lectures describe acid/base balance, the objective being to impart an understanding for
what is meant by normal acid/base balance in the animal body, why it is important that this
be maintained and how disturbances in acid/base balance may be corrected.
4.7
Manipulation of physiological systems with pharmacological agents: basic principles (2
lectures)
Aims
To explain the basic principles of drug pharmacokinetics in terms of absorption, distribution,
metabolism and excretion of drugs (disposition).
To identify the concept of different receptor types and subtypes and second messenger systems.
To explain the basic principles of drug-receptor interactions and to explain how drugs act
within the body.
8
Division of Veterinary Physiology
Objectives
Students should be able to:
 Describe the way in which drugs interact with receptors using mathematical and graphical
illustrations.
 Understand the meaning of commonly used terms such as pharmacokinetics and
pharmacodynamics.
 Have basic knowledge of the factors that affect drug distribution within the body.
4.8
Welfare and Ethics Module
This course contains material from the Welfare and Ethics Module. The module is
incorporated into several courses throughout the BVMS curriculum and is taught almost
exclusively by the BVA Animal Welfare Foundation Lecturer, Dr Dorothy McKeegan.
Elements of the module are designed to appear at appropriate points within relevant courses and
the overall aim is to increase students' knowledge and awareness of animal welfare science and
ethics in both veterinary and wider contexts.
Aims
 To provide definitions of stress and describe its role as a biological defence response.
 To explain types of stress response and how these relate to physiological indices.
 To outline the advantages and problems of utilising physiological indices to make welfare
judgements.
 To describe the neurobiological and cognitive components of pain and approaches to
investigating pain perception in different vertebrate groups.
Objectives
 Understand the concept of stress and how it relates to physiological indices.
 Be aware of the role of physiological stress indices in welfare research and assessment.
 Understand the components of pain and how pain perception might be identified in animals.
4.9
Revision Tutorials
A series of small group tutorials will be given, in which each student will attend for two
mornings to receive 4 1 hour sessions covering the work of 1st year and Martinmas Term (2nd
year).
Tutorial topics are circulated well in advance and it is expected that students will have revised
the topic in-hand. Students will be picked out and expected to contribute to the tutorial. The
tutorial system only works if students are prepared to participate.
Each student will be given the opportunity to make a short presentation of a prepared topic at
one of the tutorials. Presentations will be assessed. Marks will be awarded for (a) an abstract
made available to the tutorial group (60%) and (b) the verbal presentation (40%). This mark
will contribute to the continual assessment process (see section 7).
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Course Information 2005-2006
5
COURSE CONTENT
Lectures and practical classes are Timetabled as shown in section 10.2. Lecture Notes are on
Moodle. A practical class handbook will cover all the practicals and is usually given out at the
start of a set of practical classes. Other notes may be available in the library for consultation or
photocopying.
6
COURSE TEXTS AND REQUIRED READING
No single textbook covers the Veterinary Physiology course adequately.
recommended to possess one of the following:-
Students are
‘Textbook of Veterinary Physiology’ by J.G. Cunningham; second Edition.
‘Physiology of Domestic Animals’ by Sjaastad, Hove and Sand (2003), Scandanavian
Veterinary Press, Oslo.
The following textbooks are recommended additional reading.
‘Color Atlas of Physiology’ by A. Despopoulos & S. Silvernagl, Fourth Edition; Thieme
Medical Publications, 1991. New York
Dukes Physiology of Domestic Animals (W. Reece , ed). 2004 12th Edition
‘Physiology’, International Student Edition, by R.M. Berne and M.N. Levy; Third Edition,
1988.
‘Neurophysiology’ by R.H.S. Carpenter, Fourth Edition, Arnold, London (2003).
7
TEACHING HOURS AND TEACHING METHODS
The number of hours each student needs to attend all the classes in the Veterinary Physiology
Course are detailed in the Table below. The number of hours of academic staff time needed to
teach the Course are also shown.
TERM I
Hrs per Total
student Hours
Staff
TERM II
Total
Hours/
Hours
Student
Staff
TERM III
Total
Hours/
Hours
Student Staff
TOTALS
Total
Hours/
Hours
Student Staff
Lectures
30
(30)
25
(25)
(2)
(2)
57
(57)
Practicals &
Computer
sessions
10
(30)
0
(0)
(0)
(0)
10
(50)
Tutorials
Self Directed
Learning
assignment
0
0
(0)
(0)
4
0
(12)
(0)
6
0
(12)
(0)
10
0
(24)
(0)
Totals
40
(60)
29
(37)
8
(14)
77
(131)
10
Division of Veterinary Physiology
Each student requires 131 hours of work for the whole course excluding the Examinations.
The academic staff require 172 hours to provide the Course excluding the time required for four
Class Exams and the Professional Examination.
Lectures, the provision of comprehensive lecture notes, demonstrations of clinical case material
and a variety of laboratory and practical classes some utilising computer assisted learning
programmes are used to present the Course to students.
All staff are not routinely made aware of Students with Disabilities. This information is
considered confidential unless such a person agrees to complete disclosure. Consequently, the
onus is on you to make individual staff aware of special needs you may have that impact on a
particular method of teaching; staff will attempt to make reasonable adjustments. E.g. you may
have a degree of red-green colour blindness and have difficulty distinguishing certain tissues or
cells during microscopy.
8
8.1
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
The Course (content and presentation and assessment)
 Students have the opportunity to comment on the course and its content and presentation
through questionnaires issued at the end of each term.
 The class representative and a few students from each year also meet informally with staff
twice per year to discuss the course.
Staff will discuss points raised and consider
modifying the course as appropriate.
 External examiner feedback on assessment methods is discussed by staff with a view to
incorporating changes into the timetable
Process for progressing assessment of documentation
 Reported in the Annual Course Monitoring Report to Faculty Board of Studies.
 Board of Studies reports to Faculty.
 Faculty reports to Academic Regulation Committee and ultimately to Senate.
Modifications to the course
 Major changes are made through the Course Approval process via Board of Studies, Faculty
and Academic Regulation Committee.
 External Examiners comment on changes.
8.2
Class Examinations
Course work and continuous assessment
Laboratory or computer-aided learning (CAL) classes are held in term 2(2). Each is
accompanied by a True/False test which is marked and which contributes towards the end of
term exam which itself contributes towards the Second Professional Exam. Tutorials are held in
Term 5 (on the work of Term 2) a mark is given for student presentations which contributes
towards the Second Professional Exam.
Exam timing
Examinations are held at the end of Terms 1 and 2, (on the work of the term).
11
Course Information 2005-2006
Exam location
All written examinations are held in an exam hall at Gilmorehill which will be announced.
The examination in Term 2 has an oral format and will be conducted in The Division of
Physiology/Pharmacology.
Distribution of exam marks
End of terms 1 exam has a format as follows:
Time
allowed
2 hrs
Section 1
One essay
Section 2A
2B
20 multiple choice questions (mcq)
80 true/false questions
)
) 42% of total
One data interpretation
question
15% Exam total
(30% if no practical
classes)
15% Exam total
Practical class report mark to be
included
28% of total
End of term 2 exam will be oral with no written element. Together with the marks for the
tutorial presentations, this will contribute 7.5% to the second Professional Exam. There will
be a further 7.5% contribution from the mark for the end of term 1 exam (see page 18).
Anonymity of marking and reporting
Exam answer books can only be identified by matriculation number or examination number to
ensure student anonymity. Exam results are reported anonymously by matriculation number or
examination number.
Availability of scripts
Sample essay and data interpretation questions are available in the library.
Contribution to degree exam
End of terms 1 and 2 exam marks contribute (total 15%) towards the second Professional
Exam.
8.3
Professional Examinations
Name of Examination
Second Professional Examination in Veterinary Physiology.
The Second Professional Examination is the principal Examination of the courses in Veterinary
Physiology, Veterinary Anatomy, Veterinary Biomolecular Sciences and Animal Husbandry.
The Rules and Regulations governing these examinations are contained in the current
University Calendar, the document “University of Glasgow Code for Degree Examinations
[March 1986]” and the document “Faculty of Veterinary Medicine – Banding of Marks in
Professional Examinations (September 2002). Copies of these papers can be seen in the
Library. Additional important information is displayed on the Noticeboards outside the
Teaching Unit and also it may be obtained by enquiry at Divisional Offices.
12
Division of Veterinary Physiology
Components of the examination
The second year Professional Examination will include questions taken from the entire 2 year
course. The components of the exam will be as follows:
Paper I
3 hrs
Section 1
Section 2A
2B
Paper II
2 hrs
2 essays out of 3
)
20 multiple choice questions )
(mcq)
) 48% of exam total
80 true/false questions
)
3 data interpretation
questions from choice of 5
)
) 37% of exam total
)
Carryover from 2nd Year end of terms 1and 2 exams (2x7.5%) and for
15%
the Candlemas term tutorial
100%
Timing
The first diet of the exam will be held in about week 7 of the Whitsun term. The second diet
will be held at the end of August.
Location
Written exams will be held in Gilmorehill Halls. Locations for these and for oral to be
announced.
Anonymity of marking
Exam answer books can only be identified to the examiners by matriculation number or
examination number thus ensuring student anonymity. Exam results are reported anonymously
by matriculation number or examination number.
Distribution of marks
As section ‘Components of the examination’ above.
Delay between examination and oral notification
In order to complete the marking there will be a delay of up to a week after the exam before
students are notified of the need to attend for oral examination.
Requirement to attend pass fail oral
The External will attend in June and September to oversee the Professional examination, the
completion of the Grades and to conduct Pass/Fail and Distinction Orals.
If a student fails to complete any of the Examinations then the Code of Practice on incomplete
assessment and good cause (University of Glasgow Calendar 2005-2006 available in the
Library or from the Department) will apply. Relevant extracts are reproduced above.
Any student failing (provisional Grade E) the written exam will be notified and will require to
be seen by the appointed external examiner. Notification will be anonymously by Exam or
Matriculation Number and will normally not be later than 2 days before the oral date. The
external examiner will have the discretionary power to modify marks if deemed appropriate.
Any student failing (provisional Grade F or below) will not normally be required to see the
external examiner, though they may request to.
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Course Information 2005-2006
Request to attend distinction (Honours grading oral)
Students attaining upper level A grades will be invited to attend for oral with the external
examiner whereupon they have the opportunity to qualify for a pass with Distinction.
Resits
Any student failing the first diet of the examination will be allowed to resit the second diet,
when a pass mark must be attained in order to progress into third year. Failure to achieve a pass
mark in the second diet of the exam will necessitate resitting the whole year, followed by two
further diets of the exam the following June/September.
If the candidates fail the examination in June they may take the resit (2nd Diet) examinations in
September. The format of the September examination will be the same as the June examination,
except that ALL students who achieve less than a grade D will be REQUIRED to have an oral
examination conducted by the External Examiner and at least one of the Internal Examiners.
Grades awarded at the second diet of the professional examination will in accordance with
university policy be capped at Grade D.
Description of standards
Marks to Grade Correlation for the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Primary
grade
Mark
Secondary
band
Mark
Aggregation
score
BVMS
A
70-100
1
2
3
80-100
75-79
70-74
20
19
18
Honours
B
65-69
1
2
3
69
67-68
65-66
17
16
15
Commendation
C
55-64
1
2
3
63-64
60-62
55-59
14
13
12
Pass
D
50-54
1
2
3
54
52-53
50-51
11
10
9
E
45-49
1
2
3
49
47-48
45-46
8
7
6
F
40-45
1
2
3
44
42-43
40-41
5
4
3
G
30-39
1
2
35-39
30-34
2
1
H
0-30
CR
14
Fail
Division of Veterinary Physiology
8.4
Name of External Examiner
The External Examiner for Session 2003/2005 is Dr. Jennifer Plummer, The Royal Veterinary
College, Department of Veterinary Basic Sciences, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU.
8.5
Prizes and Awards
There is one special Award in Veterinary Physiology: The Silver Medal awarded by the Royal
Highland & Agricultural Society to the student with the highest marks in the second year
degree examination.
8.6
Marking and Oral Examination Procedures for Second Year Professional Examination in
Veterinary Physiology
All examination questions must first be approved by the external examiner in Veterinary
Physiology. NB. This does not apply to practical class questionnaires which contribute
towards the continuous assessment element of professional exams. The answers to Papers I
and II are marked by departmental academic members of staff who are the Internal Examiners
and the Total Combined Grade of each candidate is calculated. The marks are reviewed by a
panel of departmental examiners who may adjust the Written and Practical Marks. All papers
are made available to the External Examiner. The External Examiner is specifically requested
to examine papers of those candidates scoring less than Grade D and those with grades above or
just below A. The External Examiner has the discretion to adjust the marks awarded in the
Written and Practical Examinations.
After the External Examiner has confirmed the grades for the Written and Practical
Examinations in consultation with the Internal Examiner, candidates with less than Grade D are
required to attend a Pass/Fail Oral Examination conducted by the External Examiner and at
least one of the Internal Examiners.
In addition, candidates in the Honours grade at a first attempt at the examination are invited to
attend a Distinction Oral Examination conducted by the External Examiner and at least one of
the Internal Examiners. A Grade A with Distinction may be awarded at the discretion of the
External Examiner.
The results are presented as a Grade as shown in Schedule A.
Your attention is drawn to the following in relation to Veterinary Physiology.

Class Examinations.
Class examinations are held at the end of Terms 1 and 2
(Martinmas and Candlemas).

Passing the Second Professional Examination.
A student must pass the Second
Professional Examinations for all four subjects before being allowed to proceed to Third
Year Classes.
If a student fails the June diet of the Veterinary Physiology Examination they may attempt the
September diet Resit Examination in Veterinary Physiology. Failure in September would
mean that student would have to obtain permission to repeat the subject the following year if
they wished continue in the BVMS course.

9.
Location of Examination. All Written Class and Degree Examinations will be held at
Gilmorehill. Location of Oral Examinations will be announced
POLICY ON EXEMPTIONS AND COURSE CERTIFICATION
Students must attempt the Veterinary Physiology component of the 2nd Professional
Examination and obtain a Pass in order to proceed to the 3rd Year of the BVMS Curriculum
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Course Information 2005-2006
since exemptions are not given. Course Certificates. A candidate may not be admitted to a
Professional Examination in any subject unless his attendance and work in that course has been
certificated as satisfactory by the Professor or Lecturer in charge [Supplementary Regulation
12, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Glasgow University Calendar].
Students are assumed to have qualified for “Class Ticket” Certification to attempt the
Professional Examination if they regularly attend classes and make an acceptable attempt at the
Class Examinations.
A student who is considered not to have performed the work of the Class on the basis of poor
attendance at classes or very poor performances in the Class Examinations, may be prevented
from sitting the Professional Examination by the person responsible for the Course. A student
liable to be deprived of a “Class Ticket” will receive a formal warning in the form of an
interview with the Head of Department or the Course Co-ordinator, before a final decision is
taken on the matter.
10.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
10.1 Protective Clothing Health & Safety
Health and Safety Policy – Notes for Students
 Every student must comply, by law, with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and is
responsible for co-operating and complying with all applicable University and local health,
safety and environmental policies, procedures and guidelines including:
 Conscientiously discharging any duty placed upon them by the University or by a
specific legal requirement
 Taking positive action to avoid, eliminate or minimise the risk of injury in their work or
study area or in University accommodation
 Diligently observing all health and safety procedures and standards
 Promptly reporting all accidents or incidents
 Remaining familiar with Local emergency procedures
General rules for all laboratories
 All students MUST wear laboratory coats, buttoned up, at ALL times in the laboratory.
This protective clothing should be removed if leaving the laboratory, for any reason during
the duration of the work, eg. to go to the toiled or to enter any recreational areas
 Any cuts or abrasions should be protected with waterproof dressings and students should
remember to WASH THEIR HANDS before they leave the laboratory
 Smoking, eating, drinking, application of make-up etc. is strictly prohibited in the
laboratory
 Passageways and doorways MUST be kept clear at all times to provide access/egress
particularly for emergencies
 All personal possessions, apart from those specifically required for work, should not be
taken into the laboratory but MUST be left in the appropriate area designated by university
staff for such a purpose.
Basic procedures for good laboratory practice
 NO student should attempt any procedure which is unfamiliar to them without prior
consultation with academic or technical staff
 NO student should attempt to use any unfamiliar piece of equipment without instruction in
its operation and once used should ensure that it is left in clean and working order
 ALL problems or breakdowns in equipment MUST be reported immediately to a member
of the academic or technical staff
 Bench areas must be kept tidy and any spillages cleaned up when they occur. If unfamiliar
with the material in use then assistance will be provided by the technical staff
16
Division of Veterinary Physiology




Care should always be exercised when handling any substance of unknown properties or
which is known to be hazardous. The degree of hazard should indicate the nature of
precautions
ALWAYS take care to read any hazard warning labels and comply with instructions. If
any doubt exists advice should be sought from academic or technical staff
If gas cylinders are used for any reason during a laboratory class, advice on their use
MUST be sought before the gas is dispensed and the cylinders, which will be in a
specialised cylinder trolley, MUST NOT be moved in any way from their location during
the class
No equipment, consumables, chemicals, drugs or any other items whatsoever,
belonging to the Division or used for teaching purposes in the laboratory, is to be
removed by any student at any time before , during or after the class.
First Aid
 A First Aid Box is located with the laboratory
 All incidents will be reported on a University Accident Report Form and forwarded to the
University Safety Office
 If any student becomes unwell during a class, this MUST also be reported to academic or
technical staff so that appropriate action may be taken. It would be prudent for any student
who has an existing condition requiring medication or which may result in the student
feeling unwell, to mention this, in confidence, to the staff on duty in order to assist staff
with any aid the student may require
Fire
 Fire is the greatest risk to loss within the University and it is the responsibility of everyone
to be pro-active in fire prevention
 Upon discovering a fire, notify academic and technical staff immediately
 If it is safe to do so, the fire should be tackled by staff using the appropriate extinguishers
which are clearly located in the laboratory
 The fire alarm should be raised and Central Services notified on extension 2222
 Everyone MUST leave the laboratory, without stopping to collect anything, and proceed in
an orderly fashion through the FIRE DOOR and DOWN THE FIRE STAIRS out of the
building
 The FIRE DOOR is clearly sign-posted in the laboratory. Please note that this fire door
leading to the fire stairs is permanently alarmed and on NO account should the door be
opened other than if a fire is discovered, either in our divisional laboratories or elsewhere
in the building
 The collection point for the Building is outside the front entrance on the pavement at the
foot of the stairs. There is also a rear exit to this building
 No-one will be allowed back into the building until cleared to do so by the BRIGADE
FIRE OFFICER
 Please note – FIRE DRILLS are held at regular intervals during term time and upon
hearing the fire alarm, all students MUST leave the laboratory through the aforementioned
FIRE DOOR and FIRE STAIRS, DOWN AND OUT OF THE BUILDING
 Never ever assume that when an alarm sounds it is purely a “drill”. Never ever use the lifts
for any fire emergency
 Always leave the building immediately by the appropriate fire exit route.
10.2 Staff & Student Liaison
There shall be at least two meetings per academic year between Veterinary Physiology teaching
staff and a small student year group. At this staff : student liaison meeting, staff and students
17
Course Information 2005-2006
can informally discuss the progress of the teaching to date and air any problems arising. Staff
might also seek the views of the students on potential modifications to the course.
10.3 Division Of Veterinary Physiology & Veterinary Pharmacology Staff
ACADEMIC STAFF
TELEPHONE NO.
Prof. P.J. O’Shaughnessy, Head of Division
Teaching Responsibilities
Cardiovascular, Reproduction, Central Nervous
System, Special Senses.
5794
Dr. I.A. Jeffcoate
Teaching Responsibilities
Respiration, Digestion, Renal and Osmoregulation,
Acid/base, Endocrinology, Avian, Small Mammals
Other relevant responsibilities
Course Leader
6698
Dr. M. Mihm
Teaching Responsibilities
Reproduction, Cardiovascular, Temperature
Regulation
6951
Dr. N. Evans
Teaching Responsibilities
Blood and Body Fluids, Physiology of Excitable cells,
Respiration, Energy Metabolism
Other relevant responsibilities
Examinations Officer
5795
Mr Iain Gibson, Chief Technician
6950
Dr. Ana Monteiro, Senior Technician
6948
Mr. G. Jackson, Technician
6874
Mrs L Fleming, Technician
6874
Mrs. J. Bonnar, Laboratory Assistant
5794
The above staff are located in the Division of Cell Sciences, Pre-Para Clinical Building, at the
Veterinary School, Garscube.
10.4 Moodle
Moodle is the University's centrally supported Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). The
Faculty Moodle site can be accessed from on- or off-campus at:
http://moodle.gla.ac.uk/vet/moodle/
Users should log in with their Novell username and password. After a successful login you will
be asked to update your profile.
Once you have logged on, you will be able to access individual courses within Moodle, as well
as general information, and information relating to EMS, summer vacation scholarships, and
career opportunities. Many of the courses require a one-time enrolment key. Your course tutors
will provide these at the start of term. Within individual courses, you will find links to lecture
18
Division of Veterinary Physiology
notes and presentations, past papers, timetables, and links to relevant websites that have been
reviewed by your tutors. Throughout the year your tutors may also add additional Moodle
‘activities’ such as self-test material, assignments, surveys and discussion forums.
Within ‘General resources and links for students’, you will find links to courses designed to
help you start using Moodle.
Moodle replaces the Student Web Server, a 2004-5 archive version of which is still available
on- or off-campus at: http://www.gla.ac.uk/faculties/vet/teaching/sws/
You will need to username 'vetstudent' and the password 'jamesherriot' to access this.
For any problems with Moodle please email Vicki Dale (v.dale@vet.gla.ac.uk).
10.5 Class Timetables
Timetables for 2nd Year for 2005-2006 are given at the commencement of each term each
student will be presented with a detailed timetable showing student groups, times and locations
of all lectures, practical classes and tutorials. Timetables will also be posted on the appropriate
notice boards. Timetables are also on Moodle.
11.
EXAMPLE OF CLASS EXAMINATION PAPERS
Copies of class examination papers are in the library and also on Moodle (Veterinary
Physiology)
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Course Information 2005-2006
12.
ESSENTIAL COMPETENCES REQUIRED OF THE VETERINARY SURGEON
INTRODUCTION
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
An important statutory function of RCVS is to determine the “standard of proficiency” and “knowledge and
skill” to fit veterinary surgeons for practising in the United Kingdom. The standard set for registration is a
key benchmark that affects the approval of veterinary degree courses in the UK and overseas, and should
also be seen as the starting point for consideration of an individual’s continuing education and training
needs after registration. Maintaining and further developing professional competence is a requirement for
all veterinary surgeons.
This document sets out the essential competences required of the veterinary surgeon for membership of the
Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
There are many definitions of ‘competence’ and many views on how it can be developed and assessed. In
general terms, however, competence is a concept that integrates knowledge, skills and attitudes, the
application of which enables the professional to perform effectively, and to respond to contingencies,
change, and the unexpected.
This document takes a broad definition of competence as being “the ability to perform the roles and tasks
required by one’s job to the expected standard” (Eraut & Boulay, 20001). The definition recognises that
requirements and expectations change depending on the job role and context. It also recognises that
competence develops, and that an individual may work ‘competently’ at many different levels, either at
different stages of their career, or indeed from one day to the next depending on the nature of their work.
Eraut and Boulay (2000) point out the importance of distinguishing between an individual’s competence –
what one can do, and performance – what one actually does. RCVS is concerned with competence when it
undertakes its primary function of determining “the standard of proficiency required for registration” and
ensuring that individuals “will have acquired the knowledge and skill needed for the efficient practice of
veterinary surgery” (Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, section 3). Performance may be affected by factors
such as workload, working conditions, levels of support, and so on. The regulation of performance is a
function of RCVS through its statutory disciplinary powers.
The essential competences have been broken down into three main areas. They are:
-
A
General professional competences and attributes
describing the distinguishing characteristics of a veterinary surgeon
-
B
Underpinning knowledge and understanding
describing in general terms the breadth of knowledge and understanding needed for a career as
a veterinary surgeon, and for subsequent professional development in whatever sphere of
veterinary science the individual wishes to pursue
-
C
Practically-based veterinary competences
describing the basic practical competences that are expected at the point of graduation.
1 “Developing the Attributes of Medical Professional Judgement and Competence”, a review funded by the Postregistration
Medical and Dental Education Research Initiative of the Dept. of Health’s Policy Research Programme, by Professor
Michael Eraut and Benedict du Boulay, University of Sussex.
The full paper is available on the web at
http:/www.cogs.susx.ac.uk/users/bend/doh
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Division of Veterinary Physiology
The ten guiding principles of the RCVS Guide to Professional Conduct should be seen
as overarching requirements for registration (and by implication, continued
registration) with the College. The Guide states that:
Your clients are entitled to expect that you will: make animal welfare your first consideration in seeking to provide the most appropriate
attention for animals committed to your care
2. ensure that all animals under your care are treated humanely and with respect
3. maintain and continue to develop your professional knowledge and skills
4. foster and maintain a good relationship with your clients, earning their trust, respecting their
views and protecting client confidentiality
5. uphold the good reputation of the veterinary profession
6. ensure the integrity of veterinary certification
7. foster and endeavour to maintain good relationships with your professional colleagues
8. understand and comply with your legal obligations in relation to the prescription, safe-keeping
and supply of veterinary medicinal products
9. familiarise yourself with and observe the relevant legislation in relation to veterinary surgeons
as individual members of the profession, employers, employees and business owners
10. respond promptly, fully and courteously to complaints and criticism.
1.
13
ESSENTIAL COMPETENCES REQUIRED OF THE NEW VETERINARY GRADUATE
“DAY ONE SKILLS”
A1 - GENERAL PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
The new veterinary graduate should be able to:
A1.1
Communicate effectively with clients, the lay public, professional colleagues and responsible authorities;
listen effectively and respond sympathetically to clients and others, using language in a form appropriate
to the audience and the context
A1.2
Prepare clear case reports and maintain patient records in a form satisfactory to colleagues and
understandable by the public
A1.3
Work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team in the delivery of services to clients
A1.4
Be aware of the ethical responsibilities of the veterinary surgeon in relation to individual patient care
and client relations, and also more generally in the community in relation to their possible impact on the
environment and society as a whole
A1.5
Be aware of the economic and emotional climate in which the veterinary surgeon operates, and respond
appropriately to the influence of such pressures
A1.6
Be willing to use one’s professional capabilities to contribute as far as possible to the advancement of
veterinary knowledge in order to benefit veterinary practice and further improve the quality of animal
care and public health
A1.7
Have an elementary knowledge of the organisation and management of a veterinary practice, including:
 awareness of own and employer’s responsibilities in relation to employment and health and safety
legislation, and the position relating to lay staff and public liability
 awareness of how fees are calculated and invoices drawn up, and the importance of following the
practice’s systems for record keeping and book-keeping, including computer records and case reports
 ability to use information technology effectively to communicate, share, collect, manipulate and
analyse information
 importance of complying with professional standards and policies of the practice
A1.8
Understand the need and professional obligation for a commitment to continuing education and training,
and professional development, throughout one’s professional life
A1.9
Conduct oneself in a professional manner with regard to the veterinary surgeon’s professional and legal
responsibilities and understand and apply the ethical codes as set out in the RCVS Guide to Professional
Conduct
A1.10 Be able to cope with uncertainty and adapt to change
A1.11 Develop a capacity for self-audit and willingness to participate in the peer-review process
21
Course Information 2005-2006
A1.12
Be aware of personal limitations, and demonstrate awareness of when and from where to seek
professional advice, assistance and support.
(Commentary: This last item is considered to be one of the most important, and should guide all new veterinary
graduates when undertaking their professional duties. Veterinary surgeons undertaking procedures on
patients must at all stages in their careers be fully competent in their performance, or be under the
close supervision of those so competent. When in doubt, the new veterinary graduate must seek
professional support and in the interests of animal and human health, should not attempt to undertake
complex procedures unsupervised.)
B1 - UNDERPINNING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING
The new veterinary graduate will need to have acquired a thorough knowledge and understanding of the
following:
B1.1
B1.2
B1.3
B1.4
B1.5
B1.6
B1.7
B1.8
B1.9
The sciences on which the activities of veterinary surgeons are based
Research methods and the contribution of basic and applied research to all aspects
of veterinary science
How to evaluate evidence
The structure and functions of healthy animals, and all aspects of their husbandry
The aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of the common diseases and
disorders that occur in the common domestic species in the UK
Legislation relating to the welfare (including transport) of animals and notifiable diseases
Medicines legislation and guidelines on responsible use of medicines
The principles of disease prevention and the promotion of health and welfare
Veterinary public health issues including zoonoses.
C1 - PRACTICAL COMPETENCES
The new veterinary graduate should be able to undertake the following:
C1.1
C1.2
C1.3
C1.4
Obtain an accurate and relevant history of the individual animal or animal group, and its/their
environment
Handle and restrain an animal safely and humanely, and instruct others in performing these techniques
Perform a complete clinical examination
Attend all species in an emergency and perform basic first aid
(Commentary: problems to be handled for any species include first aid management of haemorrhage, wounds, breathing
difficulties, eye & ear injuries, unconsciousness, clinical deterioration, burns, tissue damage, internal organ damage
and cardiac arrest. First aid to be applied includes bandaging, cleaning, immobilising limbs, resuscitation
procedures, haemorrhage control.)
C1.5
Assess correctly the nutritional status of an animal and be able to advise the client on principles of
husbandry and feeding
(Commentary: this applies to commonly presented cases and would not, for example, be expected to include advanced
nutritional advice for complex cases, eg. high performance horses, high yielding diary cows, certain exotic or
zoological species.)
C1.6
Collect, preserve and transport samples, perform standard laboratory tests, and interpret the results of
those generated in-house, as well as those generated by other laboratories
(Commentary: new graduates are expected to have a working knowledge of tests to be undertaken include conditions
relating to infectious & contagious diseases; alimentary system; respiratory system; circulatory system; urinary
system; nervous system; endocrine system; mucucutaneous system; musculoskeletal system; trauma; poisoning;
obstetrics; paediatrics; parturition; reproduction)
C1.7
C1.8
C1.9
C1.10
C1.11
C1.12
C1.13
Use radiographic, ultrasonic, and other technical equipment which can be used as a diagnostic aid, safely
and in accordance with current regulations
Follow correct procedures after diagnosing notifiable, reportable and zoonotic diseases
Know and apply the RCVS twelve Principles of Certification correctly
Access the appropriate sources of data on licensed medicines; prescribe and dispense medicines
correctly and responsibly in accordance with relevant legislation and ensure that medicines and waste
are safely stored and/or disposed of
Correctly apply principles of sterilisation of surgical equipment
Correctly apply principles of aseptic surgery
Safely perform sedation, general and regional anaesthesia, implement chemical methods of restraint, and
assess and control pain
22
Division of Veterinary Physiology
C1.14
Advise on, and administer appropriate treatment
(Commentary: the new veterinary surgeon must always seek professional advice and support if presented with a case
beyond his or her immediate capability – see item A.12)
C1.15
C1.16
C1.17
C1.18
C1.19
C1.20
Recognise when euthanasia is necessary and perform it humanely, using an appropriate method, whilst
showing sensitivity to the feelings of owners and others, and with due regard to the safety of those
present; advise on disposal of the carcase
Perform a basic gross post mortem examination, record details, sample tissues, store and transport them
Perform ante mortem inspection of animals destined for the food chain and correctly identify conditions
affecting the quality and safety of products of animal origin
Assess and implement basic health and welfare records (and production records where appropriate)
Advise on, and carry out preventive and prophylactic programmes appropriate to the species and
commensurate with accepted animal health, welfare and public health standards, seeking advice and
assistance where necessary from professional colleagues
Minimise the risks of contamination, cross infection and accumulation of pathogens in the veterinary
premises and in the field.
23