Lecture and discussion focused on increasing the knowledge base of advanced practice nurses in pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics. Emphasis is on the pharmacotherapeutics for common acute and chronic health problems using prototype drugs within specific drug classifications. General principles, autonomic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, gastrointestinal, central nervous system, endocrine, chemotherapy, and anti-inflammatory drug topics are discussed. Case studies of pathophysiological disorders are discussed, along with the pharmacologic management.
By the end of the course, the student will be able to:
- Explain the relationship between receptors and drug action.
- Describe the pharmacokinetic processes of pharmacologic agents.
- Describe the pharmacodynamics processes of pharmacologic agents.
- Identify the significance of the graded dose–response relationship to anesthesia practice.
- Describe the basic pathophysiology of disorders related to pharmacologic therapy.
- Explain the relationship between pharmacologic mechanisms of action and the disorders for which the agent is intended.
- Describe anesthesia issues related to specific pharmacologic agents.