NSC2500 Pharmacology and Pathophysiology for Nurses

Contents

• Staffing
• Requisites
• Rationale
• Synopsis
• Objectives
• Topics
• Texts
• Reference materials
• Student workload
• Assessment details
• Important assessment information
• Assessment notes
• Production date
• PDF version

STAFFING

REQUISITES

RATIONALE

The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the pathophysiology of the most common diseases affecting patients in developed countries. This course will then build on an understanding of normal physiology and pathophysiology to address treatment approaches to such diseases with a particular focus on pharmacology and nutrition. Information learnt from this course will be intergrated into learning from nursing practice courses.

SYNOPSIS

This course focuses on understanding the basis for disease states that are most prevalent in the developed world and how they can be treated. Major topics to be covered include mental health, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, peptic ulcer disease, diabetes mellitus, asthma and cancer. Perioperative drugs will also be considered.

OBJECTIVES

On successful completion of this course students will be able to:

1.

describe the effects of the major neurotransmitters in the central and peripheral nervous system (Assessment items 1, 2);

2.

demonstrate an understanding of how changes in the level of, or responsiveness to neurotransmitters or hormones can contribute to disease states (Assessment items 1, 2);

3.

explain the theories underlying a biological basis to depression, anxiety, psychoses, Alzheimers and Parkinsons disease and how drugs can be used to improve mental health (Assessment items 1, 2);

4.

name the major groups of drugs of addiction/abuse and demonstrate an understanding of how they affect the body and addiction can be treated (Assessment items 1, 2);

5.

demonstrate an understanding of which drugs are used perioperatively including local and general anaesthetics, analgesics and antiemetics (Assessment items 3, 4);

6.

explain the pathophysiology of common cardiovascular conditions including hypertension, myocardial infarction/stroke and heart failure and name and describe the importance of nutrition, fluid regulation, exercise and the major drugs used to treat these conditions (Assessment items 3, 4);

7.

explain the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis and inflammatory disorders and how these are treated pharmacologically (Assessment items 3, 4);

8.

explain the pathophysiology of peptic ulcer disease and the major drugs used to treat this condition (Assessment items 3, 4);

9.

demonstrate an understanding of the causes of diabetes mellitus and how the importance of nutrition, exercise and drugs in treating this condition (Assessment items 3, 4);

10.

explain the pathophysiology underlying the development of asthma and how it can be treated pharmacologically (Assessment items 3, 4);

11.

demonstrate an understanding of the cellular basis of cancer, metatases and the groups of drugs used to treat some forms of cancer (Assessment items 3, 4);

12.

demonstrate skills and knowledge required to perform laboratory experiments safely with appropriate equipment (laboratory classes, Assessment items 1, 2, 3, 4).

TOPICS

TEXT and MATERIALS required to be PURCHASED or accessed

ALL textbooks and materials are available for purchase from USQ BOOKSHOP (unless otherwise stated). Orders may be placed via secure internet, free fax 1800642453, phone 07 46312742 (within Australia), or mail. Overseas students should fax +61 7 46311743, or phone +61 7 46312742. For costs, further details, and internet ordering, use the 'Textbook Search' facility at http://bookshop.usq.edu.au click 'Semester', then enter your 'Course Code' (no spaces).

2006, Australian medicines handbook, Australian Medicines Handbook Pty Ltd, Adelaide.
(This handbook is available online free through the Library using USQ connect username and password.)

Galbraith, A, Bullock, S & Manias, E 2004, Fundamentals of pharmacology, 4th edn, Pearson Education, Australia.

Jenkins, G, Kemnitz, C & Tortora, G 2007, Anatomy and physiology: from science to life, John Wiley & Sons, New York.
(Pack includes textbook, DVD & WileyPlus Access card for online access.)

USQ Publication 2007, Instructional guide for science concepts for nurses (Available: USQ StudyDesk).