On Tuesday, 19 November 2024, first-semester dental students participated in a Skills Lab session on skin sensory perception at the Integrated Laboratory (DLC), 4th floor. This engaging session aimed to enhance students' understanding of various sensory receptors in the skin, a fundamental aspect of somatic sensation.
Somatic sensation refers to the nervous system's mechanism for collecting sensory information from the body. It includes mechanoreception, thermoreception, and nociception (pain perception). Understanding these modalities is crucial for future healthcare professionals, as they serve as the foundation for diagnosing and treating sensory-related conditions.
The Skills Lab was equipped with essential tools and materials, including markers, copper-tipped probes, hot and cold water, and bundled needles. These tools were used for experiments that allowed students to directly experience how various receptors respond to different stimuli.
Before the session, all students were required to wear lab coats to ensure safety and professionalism in the laboratory environment. This practice not only promoted hygiene but also instilled a sense of responsibility among students as they prepared for hands-on learning.
Guided by experienced lecturers and skilled assistants, the session fostered an interactive learning environment where students were encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions about skin sensory mechanisms.
Experimental Activities: Mechanoreceptor Testing Students used copper-tipped probes to apply varying levels of pressure on the skin, observing how mechanoreceptors respond to different touch intensities. This hands-on experience helped them appreciate the complexity of skin sensitivity.
Thermoreceptor Experiment. Students immersed their hands in hot and cold water to explore how the skin detects temperature changes. This experiment highlighted the critical role of thermoreceptors in maintaining homeostasis and protecting the body from extreme conditions.
Nociception (Pain Perception) Test. Using bundled needles, students examined the body's pain perception mechanisms. This segment demonstrated how nociceptors react to potentially harmful stimuli, emphasizing the importance of pain as a protective mechanism.
This Skills Lab on skin sensory perception provided first-semester dental students with a comprehensive understanding of somatic sensation. By engaging in practical experiments, they gained both theoretical knowledge and essential skills that will benefit them in their future medical careers.
This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), as FKG UGM continues to provide interactive, hands-on learning experiences. By equipping students with valuable knowledge and skills, the university contributes to better healthcare outcomes in society.
Contributor: Sri Pujiatun | Author: Al Haqi Insan Pratama
