Advances in Physiology Education, Vol 260, Issue 6 10-S13, Copyright © 1991 by American Physiological Society
Laboratory experience for understanding the physiological basis of diuretic therapy
T. R. Schwab and F. G. Knox
Department of Medicine, Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota 55905.
A combined lecture and laboratory experience was designed to enhance
medical school students' understanding of the physiological basis of
diuretic therapy. Studies are performed by students in anesthetized dogs to
determine the effects of four clinically useful diuretics on renal
function. The objective of the experience is to 1) learn the mechanisms of
action, clinical indications, and adverse effects of diuretics; 2) review
the renal physiology of glomerular filtration and sodium metabolism; and 3)
complete analysis and interpretation of experimental data. These sessions
provide an effective practical educational experience in applying the
scientific method to begin to understand the physiology and pharmacology of
diuretics.
