Explore an aspect of the pathophysiology underpinning this scenario

Assignment Brief

Module: HS183 / HS220

Life Sciences

Question 1 (500 words maximum)

“Homeostasis is the state of steady internal, physical, and chemical conditions maintained by the body”

QUESTION: With reference to the respiratory or cardiovascular system, can you explain this statement?

Answer to Question 1 below: 

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Question 2 (600 words maximum)

Shahid works on a busy care of the elderly ward and he often misses his breaks. Today, he is working a 12 hour shift and has not had a chance to have a drink since breakfast at 6am. It is now 8pm. He is now experiencing some cramps in his abdomen and decided to take some Ibuprofen for the pain. When he went to the toilet, he noticed some burning on passing urine and that his urine was dark and smelly.

QUESTION: Explain the physiology behind this scenario as well as potential pathophysiological disturbances that Shahid may experience. You may wish to consider aspects of pharmacology in your response.

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Question 3 (900 words maximum)

Susan (71 years old) is usually fit and active and has been having visits from the Community Mental Health Team. When the nurse visits, Susan informs him that she had a fall a few days ago. The nurse notices some bruising on her leg, and Susan is very stiff and sore when mobilising. Susan shows the nurse a wound on her arm, which is red, swollen and has some exudate evident – and painful to touch. The nurse cleans and dresses the wound. Susan takes two 500mg paracetamol tablets for the pain. When the nurse takes Susan’s observations, she has a temperature of 38.3 °c, a pulse of 110 and BP of 95/65. Susan says she really does not feel well.

QUESTION: Explore an aspect of the pathophysiology underpinning this scenario.

Answer to Question 3 below:

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Sample Answer

Question 1: Explanation of Homeostasis with Reference to the Cardiovascular System

Homeostasis is the body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. This balance is essential for survival and proper functioning. The cardiovascular system plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating factors such as blood pressure, oxygen delivery, and temperature.

The cardiovascular system consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood. It transports oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. To maintain homeostasis, the system ensures tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrients and removes carbon dioxide and metabolic waste.

One key aspect of homeostasis in the cardiovascular system is blood pressure regulation. Blood pressure must be kept within a normal range to ensure effective blood flow. Baroreceptors, which are pressure-sensitive nerve endings located mainly in the carotid arteries and aortic arch, detect changes in blood pressure. If blood pressure rises too high, baroreceptors send signals to the brainstem, prompting the heart rate to slow down and blood vessels to dilate, lowering blood pressure. Conversely, if blood pressure drops, the heart rate increases and vessels constrict to raise pressure. This feedback loop helps maintain blood pressure within healthy limits.

Another important function is the regulation of oxygen levels in the blood. Chemoreceptors in the carotid bodies and aortic bodies monitor oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels in the blood. If oxygen levels fall or carbon dioxide rises, these receptors trigger responses such as increased heart rate and deeper breathing to restore balance.

The cardiovascular system also contributes to temperature regulation, a vital homeostatic process. Blood vessels near the skin can constrict or dilate to control heat loss. When the body is too warm, vessels dilate, increasing blood flow to the skin, allowing heat to dissipate. When cold, vessels constrict to conserve heat.

In summary, homeostasis in the cardiovascular system is achieved through complex feedback mechanisms involving sensors (baroreceptors and chemoreceptors), control centres in the brain, and effectors such as the heart and blood vessels. These systems work together to maintain stable blood pressure, oxygen delivery, and body temperature despite changes in the environment or activity levels.

Question 2: Physiological Explanation and Pathophysiological Disturbances in Shahid’s Scenario

Shahid’s situation highlights the importance of hydration, nutrition, and safe medication use in maintaining bodily functions. Working a 12-hour shift without drinking fluids since breakfast can lead to dehydration, which affects many systems, including the renal and digestive systems.

Physiology of Hydration and Urinary Function:

Water balance in the body is regulated by the kidneys, which filter blood to remove waste and excess substances as urine. Adequate fluid intake ensures urine is dilute and helps flush toxins and bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing infection risk. When dehydrated, urine becomes concentrated, appearing dark and having a strong smell, as in Shahid’s case.

Abdominal Cramps and Ibuprofen Use:

Abdominal cramps may result from dehydration causing electrolyte imbalance, especially low potassium and sodium, which are vital for muscle contraction and nerve function. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can cause irritation to the stomach lining and kidneys, especially if taken without adequate hydration. It reduces prostaglandin production, which normally protects the stomach and maintains blood flow to the kidneys. This can lead to stomach pain and increase the risk of kidney damage.

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