Sunday, August 15, 2010

MM20405 Musculoskeletal & Skin System

Hi there! =)


MM20405 is on musculoskeletal & skin system, where the focus is more onto pathology & pharmacology in Year 2, but still, the basic knowledge on anatomy & physiology of musculoskeletal (bones, joints, muscles) and skin are needed too where we have learnt it in Year 1. The basics are important and it's important to build up a strong foundation.


I skipped the first week of this module for AMSC actually, so it was a hectic 2 weeks and cramming of 3 weeks stuffs for me as there is a test at the end of the 3 weeks module.


Basically, what do we study in this module, you will ask?


We study all the basics of pharmacology - all the general principles, mode of drug administration (routes of how drugs enter our body) and drugs such as analgesic & antipyretics. Basic but important to know!


After this, we'll move on to the pathology side where we start to learn all the diseases of the system where there is a need to know the clinical features, morphology (gross & histology), pathogenesis of the diseases taught by the pathology lecturers. All topics are important but do PAY ATTENTION to the lecturers when they are teaching - what they repeated and explained more on is IMPORTANT for you to score in your module tests, exams and clinical years. =) Do not be shy to ask the lecturers to explain if there is a question in your mind. 


We get to study about tumors of the skin and bone too where we can examine the histology and gross features too during our practical where the lab is just located in the block next to Galen. Feel free to ask the lecturers to explain the features and how to determine the disease part on the slides/gross. Usually all pathology lecturers are present during practical, so just ask them questions! =) But first, PLEASE do read before entering the lab to prevent being bombarded/scolded. Be SMART in asking questions too!


For CSL, we have good orthopediatricians and clinicians teaching us : so just pay attention and most importantly have some hand-ons (practical work), instead of just listening theoratically. Learn how to present the case in the proper manner. There will be volunteers there as our patients. More info coming up soon on this.


SLPs and SGDs are important as well as they are the topics that are not covered in the lectures. The questions given by the lecturers during that time are also important too. 


To me, paying attention to the lecturers during their teachings is important as I need the understanding and explanation on the specific topics taught. Consistently reviewing the topics taught is also important. Don't be shy in asking questions as it won't do anything beneficial to you anyway. =)


Cheers,
Grace =)