Advanced Pharmacology as a Nurse
All medications and remedies are made of chemical substances. As such, those substances can have interactions and responses of various types to other drugs or to the patient’s chemical makeup, too. This week we will explore those interactions and intended responses as we look at Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics. We will also explore the use of complementary and alternative therapies and possible desirable and undesirable effects when these therapies are intertwined with prescribed medications. In addition, students will explore the requirements for advanced practice nurse prescribing in their individual locales focusing on prescriptive authority, scope of practice, and collaborative practice as defined in their Nurse Practice Act.
Learning Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
• Discuss the mechanism of action of each major drug class and natural product at the molecular/cellular and organ/organ system level.
• Identify the fundamental principles of pharmacology related to prescribed and over-the-counter medications and natural products.
• Evaluate common side effects and interactions associated with the major drug classes.
• Utilize evidence-based practice to prevent drug interactions and adverse events.
• Determine nursing prescriptive privileges, parameters and scope of practice, and restrictions as delineated in federal and state laws and regulations, including state nurse practice acts
