This module enables the investigation of the constituents of blood in a healthy individual and in a variety of diseased states. A range of blood disorders will be discussed, such as leukaemias and anaemias, leading to an understanding of a range of diagnostic tests.
The function of platelets in preventing blood loss and the blood coagulation cascade will be investigated. This knowledge will be used to enable understanding of a range of bleeding and coagulation disorders and their diagnosis and treatment. Common blood tests will be discussed and carried out in the laboratory sessions, with the emphasis upon accuracy, comparison of results with a normal reference range and safe working practice in the laboratory. A case study workshop is used to enable students to interpret data and apply theoretical understanding gained during this module.