The course introduces the physiological alterations that occur when intra, inter and extra personal stressors invade the normal lines of defense. The course is divided into five ofthe basic needs: protection, nutrition, oxygen, elimination, activity and rest. Each need is sub-divided into the major alterations affecting normal provision of that need. For each physiological disruption the student considers the population at risk, the incidence in Kuwait, common reactions, diagnostic measures and medical and/or surgical management.