Course Overview

Introduction

This course, "Introduction to Medical Terminology" (HSC 202), is designed for health science students to develop foundational skills in medical word analysis, construction, and application. The curriculum covers the structure and meaning of medical and surgical terms, with integrated reviews of anatomy and clinical applications.

• Credits: 2

• Format: Weekly lectures (on-ground or via Zoom) and independent study

• Required Text: Medical Terminology Complete! (4th Edition, Wingerd, Bruce, 2019)

• Supplemental Resources: Pearson MyLab Medical Terminology (optional, but recommended)

Learning Outcomes

Core Competencies

• Pronunciation, Spelling, and Definition: Recognize and memorize medical terms by analyzing word parts.

• Interpretation: Understand readings that use medical terms and abbreviations.

• Application: Use medical terms and abbreviations in real-world contexts, such as case studies and electronic medical records (EMR).

• Pharmacology Integration: Incorporate essential pharmacology information with medical terminology.

• Diagnostics: Differentiate tests and procedures for physical assessment and diagnosis related to medical terminology topics.

• Clinical Documentation: Analyze clinical cases and accurately complete SOAP notes for documentation.

Course Structure and Weekly Workflow

Weekly Activities

• Lecture: One 50-minute session per week, covering a new chapter each week.

• Independent Study: Read assigned chapters, complete textbook exercises, and (optionally) use MyLab resources.

• Practice: Engage in fill-ins, matching, spelling, word building, crossword puzzles, and word surgery exercises.

• Assessment: Complete weekly "Module Prep Quizzes" (unlimited attempts, highest score recorded).

• SOAP Notes: Practice and submit SOAP note assignments as scheduled.

Example Weekly Workflow

• Monday: Read chapter, complete textbook exercises, and (optionally) MyLab activities.

• Tuesday: Review textbook and online resources, including key terms and abbreviations.

• Wednesday: Practice Module Prep Quiz questions.

• Thursday-Saturday: Repeat Module Prep Quiz for highest score.

• Sunday: Submit Module Prep Quiz by 11:59 PM.

Course Content Outline

Module and Chapter Alignment

The course follows a structured progression through key chapters, each focusing on a major body system or foundational aspect of medical terminology. Note that module numbers may not always match chapter numbers.

Assessment and Grading

Grading Breakdown

• Module Prep Quizzes (13): 55% of total grade

• Attendance: 5%

• SOAP Note Assignment: 5%

• Midterm Exam: 15%

• Final Exam: 20%

All assignments are submitted via Canvas. There are no extra credit opportunities.

Key Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is required for all sessions (in-person or Zoom, as registered).

• One excused absence allowed with medical documentation.

• Active participation in class and independent study is essential for success.

Late and Missed Work

• Module Prep Quizzes cannot be submitted late except for documented medical emergencies.

• Missed exams require prompt communication and documentation for possible make-up.

• Planned absences (e.g., sports, legal events) require advance completion of assignments.

Academic Integrity

• All work must be completed honestly and independently.

• Use of generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) for assignments or exams is prohibited.

• Violations will be handled according to university policy.

Accessibility and Accommodations

• Students with disabilities should contact the Office of Student Accessibility for accommodations.

• Extended test time and other modifications are available upon request and proper documentation.

Major Topics Covered

Summary of Chapters

• Chapter 1: Introduction to Word Parts and Word Construction

• Chapter 2: Understanding Suffixes

• Chapter 3: Understanding Prefixes

• Chapter 4: The Human Body in Health and Disease

• Chapter 5: The Integumentary System

• Chapter 6: The Skeletal and Muscular Systems

• Chapter 7: Blood, the Lymphatic System, and Immunology

• Chapter 8: The Cardiovascular System

• Chapter 9: The Respiratory System

• Chapter 10: The Digestive System

• Chapter 11: The Urinary System

• Chapter 12: Reproductive System and Obstetrics

• Chapter 13: The Nervous System and Mental Health

• Chapter 14: The Special Senses of Sight and Hearing

• Chapter 15: The Endocrine System

Each chapter focuses on the terminology, anatomy, pathology, diagnostics, and clinical applications relevant to the respective body system or foundational concept.

SOAP Notes

Clinical Documentation Practice

• SOAP Note: A structured method for documenting patient encounters in clinical settings.

• Components:

  • S: Subjective (patient's history and symptoms)

  • O: Objective (measurable data, physical exam findings)

  • A: Assessment (diagnosis or clinical impression)

  • P: Plan (treatment and follow-up)

• Application: Students will practice and submit SOAP notes as part of their assessment.

Best Practices for Success

• Attend all lectures and participate actively.

• Keep up with weekly readings and exercises.

• Utilize optional MyLab resources for additional practice.

• Complete all quizzes and assignments on time.

• Seek help from instructors during office hours as needed.

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, expectations, and content areas. For detailed study of each chapter, refer to the assigned textbook and weekly Canvas modules.