DESCRIPTION

N 14 is a course in basic principles of pharmacology with a focus on the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and related implications for major drug classes.  Lecture 2 hours (2 units).  Required for nursing and pre-physcial therapy. Open to other majors.  Prerequisites: Physiology or consent of instructor.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

At the conclusion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Describe the characteristics of drug sources to include natural, synthetic and recombinant sources.

2. Define the current systems for naming drugs (chemical, generic and trade).

3. Describe the basic mechanism of drug action.

4. Describe the factors affecting pharmacokinetics of drugs (absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination).

5. Describe adverse drug effects and the strategies used by health professionals to minimize these effects.

6. Identify and use printed and online sources for drug information efficiently.

7. Discuss the process for development of new pharmacologic agents.

8. Describe patient related factors that alter drug response, such as disease, age, culture, pregnancy.

9. Discuss legal considerations relevant to pharmacology.

10. State therapeutic purpose, mechanism of action, major side effects, and nursing implications for drug classes or selected prototype drugs.

11. Use Internet resources to find information on drugs and herbal remedies.

REQUIRED TEXT

N 14 Course Syllabus

RECOMMENDED TEXT

Taber's .Encyclopedic Medical Dictionary, Philadelphia: FA Davis.
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA): Palm Pilot. May purcahse drug program or download free version of one at epocrates.com.

WEB SITE LINKS

http://www.hhs.csus.edu/Pharm/                                                                         http://online.csus.edu.

January 10, 2005