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Unit outline_

VETS6108: Foundations of Veterinary Science B

Semester 2, 2024 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Understanding normal structure and function of the animal body is critical to understanding disease and dysfunction and as such, principles of preventative and therapeutic intervention. The overarching purpose of this unit of study is to provide an advanced understanding of the normal structure and function of the major co-ordinating Systems of the mammalian body and preliminary contextual understanding of the important concepts of pathophysiology and general pathology. The unit of study is underpinned by an understanding of basic concepts and the frameworks of structure and function achieved in the Foundations of Veterinary Science A. This Unit of Study will provide the foundation for advanced learning in DVM year 2 of systemic pathology, pathophysiology and aetiopathogenesis in the setting of the major organ systems in the context of clinical scenarios of companion and production animals.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit School of Veterinary Science Academic Operations
Credit points 12
Prerequisites
? 
VETS6101 and VETS6102 and VETS6103 and VETS6104
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

2 semesters of chemistry, 1 semester of biology, 1 semester of biochemistry

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Glenn Shea, glenn.shea@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s) Peter White (Vet Science), p.white@sydney.edu.au
Roslyn Bathgate, roslyn.bathgate@sydney.edu.au
Simon de Graaf, simon.degraaf@sydney.edu.au
Mark Krockenberger, mark.krockenberger@sydney.edu.au
Glenn Shea, glenn.shea@sydney.edu.au
Merran Govendir, merran.govendir@sydney.edu.au
Caroline Marschner, caroline.marschner@sydney.edu.au
Penelope Hansen, penny.dobson@sydney.edu.au
Marianne Keller, marianne.keller@sydney.edu.au
Luisa Monteiro de Miranda, luisa.miranda@sydney.edu.au
Tutor(s) Athena Ktenas, akte7376@uni.sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 2 September 2024
Type Description Weight Due Length
Supervised exam
? 
Theory Exam
MCQ and Short Answer Questions
50% Formal exam period 2 hours
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Online task Online Quiz
Early Feedback Quiz
5% Week 04
Due date: 19 Aug 2024 at 09:00

Closing date: 22 Aug 2024
15 min
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Supervised test
? 
In-semester test
MCQ and Short Answer Questions.
30% Week 07 1.5 hours
Outcomes assessed: LO5 LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Assignment group assignment Group report
Group report
15% Week 13
Due date: 28 Oct 2023 at 23:59
3-5 pages
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO5 LO6 LO7
group assignment = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Final exam: If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.     

A result >50% is required to pass this unit of study.  

The completion of all assessment tasks is compulsory. Failure to submit will result in an absent fail grade (AF) for the unit.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a High distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a Distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

Late submission In accordance with the University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date: 1) Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date. 2) After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The Current Student website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and automated writing tools

You may only use generative AI and automated writing tools in assessment tasks if you are permitted to by your unit coordinator. If you do use these tools, you must acknowledge this in your work, either in a footnote or an acknowledgement section. The assessment instructions or unit outline will give guidance of the types of tools that are permitted and how the tools should be used.

Your final submitted work must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of generative AI tools that have been used in the assessment, and any material that forms part of your submission must be appropriately referenced. For guidance on how to acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the AI in Education Canvas site.

The unapproved use of these tools or unacknowledged use will be considered a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy and penalties may apply.

Studiosity is permitted unless otherwise indicated by the unit coordinator. The use of this service must be acknowledged in your submission as detailed on the Learning Hub’s Canvas page.

Outside assessment tasks, generative AI tools may be used to support your learning. The AI in Education Canvas site contains a number of productive ways that students are using AI to improve their learning.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy 2023 reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy 2023. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 02 Introduction to VETS6108 Lecture (1 hr)  
Introduction to metabolism & excretion Lecture (1 hr)  
Comparative anatomy of kidneys and relationship with regional structures Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Anatomy of the urinary system Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Histology of the kidney Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3
The renal system's role in maintaining homeostasis 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Histology of the kidney Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3
Comparative anatomy of the kidneys and urinary system Practical (2 hr) LO1
The renal system's role in maintaining homeostasis 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Renal acid-base physiology Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Pathological processes - cell injury, pigmentations & tissue deposits Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO5
Bilirubin metabolism and jaundice Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO5
The pathological basis of disease Lecture (1 hr) LO5 LO7
Week 03 Liver and kidney and their role in metabolism and excretion (Pharmacology 1) Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Liver and kidney and their role in metabolism and excretion (Pharmacology 2) Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Pathological processes - cell injury, pigmentations & tissue deposits [liver] Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO5
Connections between GIT & kidney and implications [anatomy] Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Connections between GIT & kidney and implications [pharmacology] Tutorial (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Pathological processes - cell injury, pigmentations & tissue deposits [urinary system] Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO5
Revision - summation of metabolism & excretion Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Case Based Learning Renal Lecture and tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Case Based Learning Renal Lecture and tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 04 Endocrine histology Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3
Endocrinology 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Endocrinology 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Endocrinology 3 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Histology of endocrine system Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3
Radiology online Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Reproduction overview and introduction to endocrinology Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Male physiology 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Male physiology 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Female physiology - oestrus cycles Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Case Study Endocrinology Lecture and tutorial (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Week 05 Male reproductive system anatomy 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Male reproductive system anatomy 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3
Male reproductive system histology [part 1: Testes] Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Male reproductive system histology [part 2: genital tract] Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3
Female reproductive system/mammary histology 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Male dog anatomy Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3
Unknown hormone Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Female genital tract/mammary gland anatomy 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Female genital tract/mammary gland anatomy 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Semen assessment Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3
Comparative male anatomy Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Week 06 Spey anatomy Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3
Female physiology - puberty and senescence Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Female physiology - gametes and fertilisation Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO3
Female physiology - Gestation and parturition Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO4
Female physiology - Lactation and juvenile growth Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Male reproductive tract histology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Female dog anatomy Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Placental anatomy 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Comparative female anatomy Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Female reproductive tract histology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Week 07 Placental anatomy 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Obstetrics 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Obstetrics 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Placental anatomy [part 1] Practical (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Placental anatomy [part 2] Practical (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Placental Anatomy [part 3] Practical (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Endocrinology of reproduction Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Radiology online Lecture and tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Week 08 Introduction to neuroscience & divisions of the NS Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3
Afferent nervous system & autonomic nervous system Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Histology of the NS - cells, CNS and PNS Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3
Overview of neural control Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Reflexes & the neurological examination Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Sensory physiology:Introduction, Touch,.. [Part 1] Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3
Sensory physiology; vision, hearing, balance [part 2] Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3
Divisions of the nervous system; head & neck Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Histology practical CNS Practical (1 hr) LO1
Cranial nerves Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Histology of eye & ear Lecture (1 hr) LO1
Brachial plexus & innervation of forelimb Practical (2 hr) LO1
Histology practical: PNS and Eye Practical (2 hr) LO1
Week 09 The efferent NS part 1 - somatic nerves & movement Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
The efferent NS Part 2: The autonomic NS Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Micturition/ Cauda Equina Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
Consciousness, behaviour, sleep and learning Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4
Lumbosacral plexus and innervation of hindlimb Practical (2 hr) LO1
How to perform a neurological examination & case studies Tutorial (1 hr) LO3
Application of MRI in neuroscience Lecture (1 hr) LO3 LO4
Autonomic nervous system, spinal nerves and neural control of urination Practical (2 hr) LO1
How to perform a neurological examination & case studies 2 Tutorial (2 hr) LO3
Sensory physiology: Pain [Part 3] Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO3
Week 10 Revision and Integration: Nervous System Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Neurological examination: Case studies presentation Tutorial (1.5 hr) LO2 LO3
CNS, cranial nerves, ear & eye Practical (2 hr) LO1
Case studies of neural dysfunction: ANS, pain, behaviour Tutorial (1 hr) LO3
Week 11 Introduction to immunity & inflammation / assessment task Lecture (1 hr) LO5 LO6 LO7
Immunology, inflammation & repair overview Lecture (1 hr) LO5 LO6 LO7
Ontogeny of the immune system Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO6
Innate immunity Lecture (1 hr) LO6 LO7
Innate immunity / Acute Inflammation 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO6
Innate immunity / acute inflammation Practical (2 hr) LO5 LO6
Passive immunity Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO6
Information DVM2 Lecture (1 hr)  
Morphological diagnosis / innate immunity / acute inflammation Tutorial (1 hr) LO5 LO6
Review innate pathology Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO5 LO6 LO7
Week 12 Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 1 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO5 LO6 LO7
Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 2 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO5 LO6 LO7
Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 3 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO5 LO6 LO7
Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 4 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO5 LO6 LO7
Morphological diagnosis/Adaptive immunity/chronic inflammation Practical (2 hr) LO5 LO6 LO7
Adaptive Immunity Lecture (1 hr) LO5 LO7
Adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation 5 Lecture (1 hr) LO2 LO5 LO6 LO7
Assessment task workshop Tutorial (2 hr)  
Immunodiagnostics [infectious disease] Tutorial (2 hr) LO2 LO5 LO6 LO7
Review adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation Lecture (1 hr) LO5 LO6 LO7
Week 13 Concepts of repair & wound healing Lecture (1 hr) LO5
Repair as an extension of adaptive immunity / chronic inflammation Lecture (1 hr) LO5 LO7
Placement Pre-Departure presentation Lecture (1 hr)  
Enhancing repair through surgical principles Lecture (1 hr) LO5 LO6 LO7
Modulation of adaptive immunity: Vaccination Tutorial (2 hr) LO5 LO6 LO7
Modulation of adaptive immunity: Vaccination Lecture (1 hr) LO6
Immunodiagnostics [immune mediated disease] Tutorial (2 hr) LO5 LO6

Attendance and class requirements

It is the general expectation that students attend at least 90% of all lectures, tutorials and practical classes.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 12 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 240-300 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. identify and describe features of the gross and microscopic structure of the hepatobiliary system, urinary tract, male and female reproductive tracts, endocrine system, the central and peripheral nervous systems and the lymphoid system; including major species differences
  • LO2. describe the physiological features of the urinary, hepato-biliary, reproductive, endocrine, neurological and immune systems and their role in the maintenance of homeostasis
  • LO3. integrate anatomical, histological and physiological principles to explain normal function, abnormal function and procedures
  • LO4. compare and contrast the major anatomical structural and functional differences in common domestic species
  • LO5. apply the general principles of the basic pathological processes of cell injury, degeneration & necrosis; inflammation & repair; circulatory disturbances; tissue deposits & pigments to explain fundamental features of disease
  • LO6. analyse the role of innate and adaptive immunity in diseases of animals
  • LO7. apply concepts of host-pathogen-environment interactions (HPEI) to understand inflammatory diseases of animals.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - AVBC
11. Perform routine procedures, including surgeries, identifying associated indications and contraindications and adjusting the procedures as indicated.
13. Assess and manage pain.
15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings.
20. Advise on and implement preventive programs appropriate to the species
23. Perform antemortem and postmortem inspection of animals and make appropriate decisions to protect the food chain and animal welfare at the point of slaughter.
25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context.
27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice.
28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion.
30. Act professionally and ethically, compliant with legal and regulatory requirements of the relevant veterinary statutory body.
33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency.
34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted.
35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance.
36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self.
39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice.
5. Select appropriate diagnostic tests and techniques, including diagnostic imaging. Safely apply diagnostic techniques and safely collect, preserve and transport samples as applicable. Interpret results of diagnostics, accounting for their limitations.
9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
LO2
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - AVBC
13. Assess and manage pain.
16. Assess and advise, at individual and population levels, on clinical and production factors such as the physical condition, welfare, nutritional status, performance and associated management factors of an animal/ group of animals.
25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context.
27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice.
28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion.
3. Perform a complete clinical examination relevant to presentation and context.
33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency.
34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted.
35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance.
36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self.
39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice.
4. Identify and prioritise problems to develop differential diagnoses and a diagnostic plan, then interpret clinical and diagnostic evidence to establish a diagnosis.
5. Select appropriate diagnostic tests and techniques, including diagnostic imaging. Safely apply diagnostic techniques and safely collect, preserve and transport samples as applicable. Interpret results of diagnostics, accounting for their limitations.
9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
LO3
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - AVBC
1. Obtain an accurate and relevant history of the individual animal or animal group and its/their management and environment.
13. Assess and manage pain.
16. Assess and advise, at individual and population levels, on clinical and production factors such as the physical condition, welfare, nutritional status, performance and associated management factors of an animal/ group of animals.
20. Advise on and implement preventive programs appropriate to the species
25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context.
27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice.
28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion.
33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency.
34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted.
35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance.
36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self.
38. Promote health and safety of patients, clients, colleagues and themselves in the veterinary setting, including applying risk management principles to practice.
39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice.
5. Select appropriate diagnostic tests and techniques, including diagnostic imaging. Safely apply diagnostic techniques and safely collect, preserve and transport samples as applicable. Interpret results of diagnostics, accounting for their limitations.
9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
LO4
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - AVBC
16. Assess and advise, at individual and population levels, on clinical and production factors such as the physical condition, welfare, nutritional status, performance and associated management factors of an animal/ group of animals.
20. Advise on and implement preventive programs appropriate to the species
23. Perform antemortem and postmortem inspection of animals and make appropriate decisions to protect the food chain and animal welfare at the point of slaughter.
25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context.
28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion.
33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency.
34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted.
35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance.
36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self.
38. Promote health and safety of patients, clients, colleagues and themselves in the veterinary setting, including applying risk management principles to practice.
39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice.
9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
LO5
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - AVBC
1. Obtain an accurate and relevant history of the individual animal or animal group and its/their management and environment.
15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings.
16. Assess and advise, at individual and population levels, on clinical and production factors such as the physical condition, welfare, nutritional status, performance and associated management factors of an animal/ group of animals.
19. Recognise suspicious signs of reportable biosecurity risks (endemic, exotic and zoonotic diseases) and take appropriate action, including notifying the relevant authorities.
23. Perform antemortem and postmortem inspection of animals and make appropriate decisions to protect the food chain and animal welfare at the point of slaughter.
25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context.
30. Act professionally and ethically, compliant with legal and regulatory requirements of the relevant veterinary statutory body.
33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency.
34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted.
35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance.
36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self.
38. Promote health and safety of patients, clients, colleagues and themselves in the veterinary setting, including applying risk management principles to practice.
39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice.
4. Identify and prioritise problems to develop differential diagnoses and a diagnostic plan, then interpret clinical and diagnostic evidence to establish a diagnosis.
5. Select appropriate diagnostic tests and techniques, including diagnostic imaging. Safely apply diagnostic techniques and safely collect, preserve and transport samples as applicable. Interpret results of diagnostics, accounting for their limitations.
7. Tailor the diagnostic, treatment, preventive, and control plans when providing veterinary services, considering animal welfare, client expectations and economic contexts.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.11. Communication skills
LO6
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - AVBC
15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings.
17. Apply principles of population medicine and epidemiological skills to investigate veterinary problems.
23. Perform antemortem and postmortem inspection of animals and make appropriate decisions to protect the food chain and animal welfare at the point of slaughter.
25. Communicate effectively with clients, the public, professional colleagues, and responsible authorities, using language appropriate to the audience and context.
27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice.
28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion.
30. Act professionally and ethically, compliant with legal and regulatory requirements of the relevant veterinary statutory body.
33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency.
34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted.
35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance.
36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self.
39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice.
4. Identify and prioritise problems to develop differential diagnoses and a diagnostic plan, then interpret clinical and diagnostic evidence to establish a diagnosis.
5. Select appropriate diagnostic tests and techniques, including diagnostic imaging. Safely apply diagnostic techniques and safely collect, preserve and transport samples as applicable. Interpret results of diagnostics, accounting for their limitations.
7. Tailor the diagnostic, treatment, preventive, and control plans when providing veterinary services, considering animal welfare, client expectations and economic contexts.
8. Utilise traditional and digital technologies and information sources to inform patient care and manage health data.
9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
LO7
Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (D1Cs) - AVBC
1. Obtain an accurate and relevant history of the individual animal or animal group and its/their management and environment.
15. Perform a systematic, gross postmortem examination, with attention to personal and staff safety, and report findings.
23. Perform antemortem and postmortem inspection of animals and make appropriate decisions to protect the food chain and animal welfare at the point of slaughter.
27. Demonstrate inclusivity and cultural competence and act to respect and promote diversity in all elements of practice.
28. Work effectively as a member of a professional/ inter-professional team, fully recognising the contribution of each professional while promoting equity and inclusion.
30. Act professionally and ethically, compliant with legal and regulatory requirements of the relevant veterinary statutory body.
33. Engage in self-directed learning, continuing professional development and career planning, acknowledging the need for self- care in the context of maintaining competency.
34. Recognise limitations of knowledge, skills and resources, consult with colleagues as needed, and identify situations in which referral is warranted.
35. Reflect on personal actions, including inviting and responding to constructive feedback on performance.
36. Practise time management, including recognising the impact of time management on stakeholders and self.
38. Promote health and safety of patients, clients, colleagues and themselves in the veterinary setting, including applying risk management principles to practice.
39. Critically review and evaluate evidence from traditional and digital resources, aligned to evidence-based veterinary practice.
9. Adapt and apply knowledge and skills to varied scenarios and contexts, including where information is incomplete.
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Day One Competencies - OIE
2.11. Communication skills

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Based on student feedback, content and delivery of lectures, tutorials and practical classes were revised where appropriate. All feedback provided will be considered as part of the formal Curriculum Review.

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non‐compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities. 

Students in the DVM must have a valid Q‐fever vaccination and/or an appropriate record of testing for Q‐fever.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.