Instructor: Dr. Cooper

I. DESCRIPTION:

The course, CH 240, presents the fundamental principles of pharmacology. Modes of action of various drugs, their biological and biochemical activities as well as responses within the human system are discussed. Topics include: pharmaceutics; pharmacokinetics; toxicology; pharmacodynamics; pharmacotherapeutics in nursing practice; and the effects of drugs on the nervous system, digestive system, cardiovascular system, and respiratory system. Although the course is intended for students planning to enter a program in nursing or other health-related field, the course is open to other students who have taken the necessary prerequisites.

II. PREREQUISITES:

CH 110-111: Introduction to General, Organic & Biochemistry I & II

BI 161-162: Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II

III. TEXT:

J.B. Freeman Clark, S.F. Queener and V. Burke Karb, Pharmacologic Basis of NursingPractice, 6^th edition, Mosby-Year Book, Inc., St. Louis, Missouri, 2000.

IV. OBJECTIVES:

Objectives include the following items.

1. Gaining factual knowledge about pharmacology (terminology, classification of drugs, and modes of action of various drugs).

2. Learning fundamental principles and concepts of pharmacology that guide all drug use.

3. Developing specific skills, competencies and points of view needed by professionals including nurses and other healthcare personnel with particular emphasis on the nursing implications for drug administration throughout the nursing process.

4. Learning how professionals in this field go about the process of gaining new knowledge.

5. Learning to apply course material to improve rational thinking, problem-solving and decision-making.

V. EXAMINATIONS:

Five exams will be given. The fifth exam will be a comprehensive exam including topics from the entire course. Attendance at the scheduled examinations is expected. Make-up privileges will be allowed only in exceptional circumstances such as medically-excused absences or emergencies. In such cases written documentation by a physician or other authorized person must be provided.

VI. FINAL GRADE: