Pharmacology and Clinical Procedures

Catalog description

MA111 introduces learners to pharmacology principles, including medication dosage calculations and administration via parenteral, oral, transdermal, inhalation, instillation, and topical routes. Learners apply dosage calculation formulas and study anatomy and physiology of the immune, integumentary, and musculoskeletal systems. Instruction includes assisting with physical examinations through proper patient positioning, privacy, and preparation of instruments and supplies, as well as explaining pre-, intra-, and post-assessment procedures. Learners also gain entry-level knowledge of diagnostic imaging, microbiology concepts such as bacterial structures, staining characteristics, oxygen requirements, and common bacterial diseases, and therapeutic modalities used in orthopedic medicine. Emphasis is placed on medical terminology, communication best practices, and career development skills. The laboratory component reinforces theory through hands-on practice. Learners perform medication calculations, assist with examinations, conduct CLIA-waived microbiology tests, and apply orthopedic therapeutic modalities. Core medical assisting skills practiced throughout the course include administering intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), and intradermal (ID) injections; performing phlebotomy and capillary punctures; and operating EKG equipment.