Adv Pharm for Clinical Practic

Catalog description

Nursing 519 provides an in-depth exploration of the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of medications as well as the pharmacotherapeutic management of disease processes commonly encountered in the primary care setting. Building on skills learned in Advanced Health Assessment (NURS 502) and Advanced Pathophysiology (NURS 518), and supporting concurrent and subsequent functional role courses, this course assists the learner in synthesizing knowledge of patient assessment and diagnosis with pharmacological agents and treatment modalities. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking skills, sound clinical reasoning, and an informed decision-making approach to the pharmacological management aspects of patient care. This course is designed for students to study pharmacotherapeutics in all major systems. In an advanced course with difficult concepts, participation in learning activities is essential and reading of assigned topics is critical to success in this course. This class is designed to facilitate mastery of pharmacological concepts to ensure safe prescribing as an advanced practice nurse. The course offers students an opportunity to advance in their roles as expert educators and clinicians. Relevant ethical, legal, and professional practice issues as well as economic considerations are discussed throughout the course. Lifespan, developmental, race, cultural, gender, genetic and behavioral aspects are also significantly interwoven. The overall goal of the course is to provide the student with the fundamental knowledge and essential decision-making skills that the advanced practice nurse must have for safe and effective pharmacologic management of patients in clinical practice.