NUR9208

Therapeutic medication management ( 12 points, SCA Band 0, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Lisa McKenna

Offered:
Peninsula First semester 2006 (Day)
Peninsula First semester 2006 (OCL)

Synopsis: This unit is directed at extending students' knowledge of pharmacology and explores principles covering medication management within advanced nursing practice. The first module seeks to extend students knowledge of fundamental pharmacological principles of medication management which can be adopted and utilized in the advanced practice setting. The second module extends students' knowledge of social, political and ethical principles of medication management, and allows the student to explore how these principles are applied in the advanced practice setting.

Objectives: On completion of the unit, students are expected to be able to: 1. Describe fundamental principles of pharmacology; 2. Describe the processes involved in pharmacokinetics along with factors that influence these processes; 3. Explain indications, actions, adverse reactions and contraindications for commonly prescribed medication; 4. Demonstrate clinical decision making ability relating to pharmacology within own specific practice area; 5. Provide appropriate education for clients based upon individual medication regimes; 6. Describe medication regimes for discipline-specific clinical conditions in their area of practice; 7. Critically analyze the implications of medication use across the lifespan; 8. Describe legal, ethical and professional responsibilities associated with prescription and administration of medications in their jurisdiction; 9. Critically analyze social and political factors that influence use of medications in their jurisdiction.

Assessment: Mid-semester on-line examination (20%), End of Semester written examination (50%)(must pass exam to achieve a pass in the unit), Portfolio activities (30%)

Contact Hours: 3 hour tutorial per week.