vcc.ca
NURS 2160: Pharmacotherapeutics 3
Effective date
September 2023
Department
Baccalaureate Nursing
School
Health Sciences
Description
This course is a continuation of the study of pharmacology. Building on previous concepts and principles of pharmacotherapeutics and existing knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, pharmacological knowledge will be applied to the pathophysiological states related to acute medical-surgical health challenges. Critical inquiry is applied to the nurse’s responsibilities for safe and effective medication administration.
Credits
2.0
Year of study
2nd Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
NURS 1260, NURS 1261, NURS 1262, NURS 1263, NURS 1264, NURS 1370.
Corequisites
NURS 2161, NURS 2162, NURS 2163, NURS 2164.
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Apply the nursing process to the research and administration of commonly used drug classifications and selected medications within each classification.
- Describe the therapeutic action, side effects, drug interactions, safe dosage and nursing considerations of drug classifications commonly used to treat disorders of each of the body systems.
- Explore non-pharmacological therapeutics for acute medical-surgical conditions.
- Explain the legal, ethical and professional practice responsibilities of the nurse related to medication administration.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Total Hours: 30
Total Hours: 30
Instructional Strategies
This course is delivered in the classroom using large group discussions, small group application activities, and case studies. Active participation is a foundation of professional practice, critical thinking and capacity building.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
72%
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
35 |
|
|
Final Exam |
35 |
|
Course topics
- - Pharmacology for acute medical and surgical conditions - Patient education and advocacy - Fluid & electrolytes, acid-base balance - Autonomic nervous system - Medications for hypotension and shock - Acute pain management - Medications for inflammation and infection - Medications for immune system modulation - Medications for the endocrine system: adrenal medication - Medication for Cardiovascular system: Coagulation Modifiers
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.