Pharmacology: Introduction for Nurses
Curriculum guideline
It is the intent of faculty to facilitate student learning, promote critical inquiry, reflection and analytical reasoning through a variety of learning processes such as lecture, group discussion, and client care studies.
In this course, safe administration of medications and special considerations for administration of medications for older adults are the foci of discussion. Concepts and essential content that will be addressed relative to these topics are listed below. In addition, the core curriculum concepts are integrated in this course
Pharmacological principles and foundational concepts
Medications and the scope of nursing practice
Standards of safe practice: The “rights” of safe medication administration
Prevention of medication errors
Safety
Medication classifications
Gerontological considerations for medication administration in nursing practice
Treatment of pain:
- theories of pain perception and control
- analgesia
- narcotics
- anti-inflammatory (non-steroidal)
Medication administration
- Nursing practice observations and assessments
- Nursing practice decision-making
Medical dosage calculation
- parenteral
- oral
- other
Alternative and complimentary therapies
- natural medications
- over-the-counter medications
- safety
Client perspectives on medications
At the end of this course, the successful student will be able to:
- Differentiate the role of the nurse, pharmacist and prescriber as these relate to the use of medications by clients.
- Apply pharmacological principles and foundational concepts for safe medication administration.
- Apply knowledge about selected medication classifications as a framework for understanding the therapeutic effects of medications commonly used in nursing care with older adults.
- Demonstrates an understanding of gerontological considerations in medication administration.
- Apply theoretical knowledge of pain pathways, perception and management.
- Apply the principles of safe medication administration for safe nursing practice.
- Calculate correct dosages for medications administration.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the differences among and the nursing implications related to over-the-counter medications, natural products, and prescribed medications.
The course evaluation is consistent with Douglas College Evaluation Policy. A course evaluation schedule and other course evaluation information are provided on the Instructor’s Course Outline which is available to students at the beginning of each semester. This is a graded course.
Textbooks and Materials to be Purchased by Students:
A list of recommended textbooks and materials is provided on the Instructor’s Course Outline which is available to students at the beginning of each semester.
Students in the BSN program are required to maintain a passing grade of 65% (C+) in all courses in order to progress in the program.