Cardiology - Syllabus

**Course Information**

* Course Title: Cardiology Fundamentals for STEP1
* Course Code: MED 521
* Credit Hours: 3.0
* Prerequisites: None
* Instructor Information:
+ Name: Dr. Jane Smith, MD
+ Email: [jane.smith@medicalschool.edu](mailto:jane.smith@medicalschool.edu)
+ Office Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2-4 PM

**Course Description**

This course is designed to provide medical students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of cardiology, as relevant to the STEP1 exam. Students will learn about the pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and management of various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular heart disease. This knowledge will enable students to approach patients with cardiac conditions in a clear-headed and evidence-based manner.

The course is tailored for first-year medical students who are preparing for the STEP1 exam. It provides an overview of the core concepts in cardiology, including clinical presentation, history taking, physical examination, and diagnostic testing. Students will also learn about the pharmacology and management of various cardiac conditions, as well as how to apply evidence-based guidelines in their practice.

Throughout the course, students will engage in active learning strategies, including small group discussions, case presentations, and problem-solving exercises. The course is designed to be interactive, with opportunities for students to ask questions, share their thoughts, and learn from one another.

**Learning Objectives**

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Understand the pathophysiology of various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular heart disease.
2. Apply clinical decision-making strategies in patients with cardiac conditions, using evidence-based guidelines and expert consensus recommendations.
3. Perform a comprehensive physical examination and history taking to identify cardiac pathology.
4. Interpret diagnostic tests, including ECGs, echocardiograms, and stress tests.
5. Develop a treatment plan for patients with cardiac conditions, including medication management and lifestyle modifications.
6. Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments and medications in managing cardiovascular diseases.
7. Identify potential complications and comorbidities associated with various cardiac conditions.
8. Develop communication skills to effectively manage patient expectations, provide education, and coordinate care.

**Course Content Outline**

Week 1: Introduction to Cardiology

* Overview of cardiology
* History of cardiology
* Clinical presentation and physical examination

Week 2-3: Hypertension and Coronary Artery Disease

* Pathophysiology of hypertension and coronary artery disease
* Diagnostic testing and treatment options
* Lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions

Week 4-5: Heart Failure

* Definition and classification of heart failure
* Pathophysiology and pathogenesis
* Treatment options, including medication management and device therapy

Week 6-7: Arrhythmias

* Types and mechanisms of arrhythmias
* Diagnostic testing and treatment options
* Pharmacological interventions and device therapy

Week 8-9: Valvular Heart Disease

* Definition and classification of valvular heart disease
* Pathophysiology and pathogenesis
* Treatment options, including surgical intervention and valve repair

Week 10-11: Cardiac Imaging and Echocardiography

* Principles of cardiac imaging and echocardiography
* Interpretation of echocardiograms and stress tests
* Applications in clinical practice

Week 12: Final Exam Review and Case Presentations

* Review of key concepts and case presentations
* Final exam preparation and review

**Required Readings & Resources**

* Textbooks:
+ "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" (McGraw-Hill)
+ "Current Medical Research & Opinion" (BMJ Publishing Group)
* Journal Articles:
+ New England Journal of Medicine
+ Journal of the American College of Cardiology
+ Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association
* Online Resources:
+ UpToDate
+ Medscape
+ American Heart Association guidelines and recommendations
* Reference Materials:
+ "Cardiovascular Pharmacology" (Mosby)
+ "Echocardiography in Clinical Practice" (Elsevier)

**Assessment & Grading**

* Exam 1: 20% of final grade
* Case Presentations: 15%
* Group Discussions and Participation: 15%
* Homework Assignments: 10%
* Final Exam: 40%

Grading Scale:

A = 90-100%
B = 80-89%
C = 70-79%
D = 60-69%
F = below 60%

**Course Schedule**

Week 1: Introduction to Cardiology (Jan 3-7)
Week 2-3: Hypertension and Coronary Artery Disease (Jan 10-21)
Week 4-5: Heart Failure (Jan 24-Feb 4)
Week 6-7: Arrhythmias (Feb 7-18)
Week 8-9: Valvular Heart Disease (Feb 21-Mar 4)
Week 10-11: Cardiac Imaging and Echocardiography (Mar 7-18)
Week 12: Final Exam Review and Case Presentations (Mar 21-25)

Important Dates:

* Midterm Exam (Jan 17): Week 3 topic
* Final Exam (Apr 15): Comprehensive review of all topics

Exam Dates:

* Exam 1: Feb 22
* Exam 2: Apr 8