1 Start Here——Path to Academic Success: Pathophysiology and Pharmacology Basics
1 Start Here——Path to Academic Success: Pathophysiology and Pharmacology Basics in Nursing
Navigating the Montgomery College Nursing Program’s Pathophysiology and Pharmacology Course
Learning Objectives
- Describe the course description and course objectives of NURS 129 in the Montgomery College Nursing Program
- Create a plan of academic success for NURS 129 and beyond
- Apply conceptual approach to learning Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
- Navigate Open Education Resource (OER)-Pathophysiology and Pharmacology Basics
I. Pathophysiology and Pharmacology as Foundations of Nursing Practice
Pathophysiology and pharmacology are foundations of nursing practice, forming the base of clinical decision-making, patient care, and therapeutic interventions. Nurses must have a solid knowledge base in these disciplines to provide safe, effective, and evidence-based care. This resource is created as a learning resource and guide for the Montgomery College NURS 129 course-Pathophysiology and Pharmacology in Nursing. The details of this course are provided in the course syllabus found in the course’s Learning Management System-Blackboard. The course description and objectives are provided below to help learners understand the remaining information in this chapter.
NURS 129: Pathophysiology and Pharmacology in Nursing
Course Description: Pathophysiology and Pharmacology in Nursing introduces pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacotherapeutics of various classifications of medications as they relate to basic pathophysiology seen in each body system. Emphasis is on the nursing implications and patient education requirements for the safe administration of each class of medications. Students explore the role and responsibility of the registered nurse in administering and evaluating medications. Some content in the course will be covered in an online format.
Course Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Apply knowledge of evidence-based practices to enhance understanding of disease processes and other health-related conditions.
2. Recognize legal and ethical issues pertaining to the medication delivery process in healthcare practice.
3. Utilize the nursing practice for decision-making in caring for patients with altered health states.
4. Demonstrates knowledge of healthcare technological resources to support understanding disease processes, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics.
5. Discuss pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the pharmacotherapeutics of medications within each pharmacological category.
Evaluation of Learning Outcomes: Cognitive written assessments and application of concepts through active learning exercises and projects.
Pathophysiology: The Foundation of Understanding Disease
Pathophysiology is the study of the functional changes that occur in the body due to a disease or injury. This knowledge allows nurses to understand the underlying mechanisms of diseases, which is crucial for several reasons:
1. Acc