Pharmacology in Nursing

Course Description

This course will present an overview of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs, as well as drug classifications. Current issues in drug legislation, design, manufacturing and marketing will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on the role of the professional nurse in medication administration, including both expected and unexpected effects of drugs on patients.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the key-terms used in the study of pharmacology.
• Discuss commonly used drug groups/classifications in relation to their actions, uses, side effects, and nursing implications.
• Compare and contrast gender, racial and ethnic differences in response to medication administration, action and response.
• Discuss special considerations in drug therapy including OTC’s, herbal remedies and cultural issues.
• Identify the principles and describe methods of drug administration and IV therapy.
• Calculate drug dosages and IV doses using the Apothecary and Metric Systems.
• Describe the role of the pharmacist related to medication administration and the role of the nurse.