Leader: Mrs Lorraine Walker (Gippsland & Mildura) & Ms Robyn Fairhalll (Peninsula)

Offered

Gippsland First semester 2008 (Day)
Mildura First semester 2008 (Day)
Peninsula First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

There is an abundance of medicinal and therapeutic agents used as part of contemporary health care. The aim of this unit is to develop in students an understanding of the basic principles of pharmacology as they relate to nursing. The unit intends to provide a sound knowledge base encompassing pharmacological and practical aspects of handling, administration and storage of drugs as part of the overall plan in care of clients.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students are expected to be able to:

1. discuss the basic principles of pharmacology, therapeutic drug administration and monitoring as they relate to nursing;
2. demonstrate proficiency in calculation of drug dosages for administration of medications by a variety of routes;
3. analyse the problems associated with drug administration, including drug interactions and the use of drugs across the life-span;
4. describe the legal and professional requirements associated with quality use of medications including safe drug administration, storage and handling;
5. explain the principles of drug treatment in common disease and non disease states or conditions, resuscitation and poisoning;
6. discuss the philosophy and contribution of pharmacology in relation to other non-drug and complementary therapies in promoting health and well-being;
7. explain the nursing implications of caring for patients receiving drug therapy;
8. explore and evaluate the educational needs of clients in relation to their pharmacology and health status;
9. demonstrate safe clinical practice in relation to drug administration based on sound pharmaceutical knowledge, and
10. administer medications and document accurately under supervision of registered staff and/or the clinical teacher to demonstrate safe clinical practice in the acute setting.

Assessment

Formal Examination: 50%
Mastery Calculation Test: 10%
Written Assignments-Care Plans: 30%
On-line quiz: 10%

Contact hours

5 hours per week (lectures, tutorial and practical classes)

Prerequisites

For Bachelor of Nursing students: NUR1101, NUR1102, NUR1301, NUR1302

For Bachelor of Midwifery students: NUR1301, NUR2304