This course examines the principles of pharmacology required to administer medications in a safe and professional manner. Medication administration requires the application of the nursing process for clinical decision-making. The various routes of medication administration are introduced. Complementary, Indigenous, alternative remedies, and polypharmacy across the lifespan are explored. The learners will gain an understanding of pharmacology and medication administration across the lifespan. Also included are the topics of substance abuse and addiction.
Prerequisites
Course type
This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.
- Introduction to Pharmacology: The PN role and legal responsibilities of medication administration; Pharmacodynamics; Pharmacokinetics; Drug actions and interactions; Drug classifications according to body systems; Principles of medication administration; Drug distribution systems; Basic terminology used in pharmacology
- Nursing Process and Pharmacology
- Routes of Medication Administration: Oral; Rectal; Topical; Parenteral; Percutaneous
- Introduction to complementary, Indigenous and traditional healing alternatives: Vitamin Supplements; Herbal Preparations; Homeopathy;
- Basic medication dosage calculations
- Polypharmacy across the lifespan
- Drug Classifications according to body systems: Endocrine, Nervous, Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary, Musculoskeletal and Sensory systems
- Miscellaneous drug classifications (antineoplastics); Antimicrobial agents; drug resistance
- Interactions of complementary and alternative healing remedies with prescription medications
Course schedules
Select your program to see the available course schedules.
How to take this course
This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].
† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.