POSM 101 - Anatomy and Physiology for Polysomnography

(TP/SS only)

Detailed study of the integrated structure and function of the cardiopulmonary and neuromuscular systems as they relate to sleep pathology. The origin and interpretation of the electrical signals generated throughout the body that reflect states of awareness and sleep are introduced. Structural and physiological control of breathing and physiological manifestations of respiratory disorders that affect sleep are discussed. PRE- or COREQUISITE(S): CMAP 120 , HINM 116 , PSYC 102 and consent of department. Assessment Level(s): ENGL 101 /ENGL 101A , READ 120 . Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory each week. Formerly PO 101.

4 semester hours

Course Outcomes:
Upon course completion, a student will be able to:

Explain human anatomy and physiology as it relates to sleep disorders.
Explain the brain structure and function as it relates to the generation of sleep.
Explain circadian sleep and wake cycles.
Summarize the process of measuring the electrical potentials of the human body, including extra-cellular potentials created by the heart, brain, muscle, and eyes.
Explain the electrical brain wave and eye movement activity, skin surface muscle potentials, and skin surface heart muscle potential seen during sleep.
Discuss the human sleep stages across the lifespan.
Explain brain and spinal cord control of breathing.
Explain the physiology of the hypoxic and hypercapnic mechanisms of ventilatory drive.
Summarize the physiology of gas exchange and transport, including the significance of the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve and gas affinity for hemoglobin.
Explain the clinical significance of arterial blood gas analysis in regard to patients’ pulmonary disorders and/or sleep-disordered breathing.
Differentiate between normal and abnormal arterial blood gas values.
Evaluate arterial blood gas values to classify oxygenation and acid-base abnormalities.
Explain the mechanics of breathing.
Explain the anatomic locations of the collapsible portions of the upper airway.
Explain the cardiac electrical cycle.

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