NUR 218: Applied Pharmacology

This course builds on basic pharmacology knowledge to explore more complex medications and patient-specific drug therapy. Students study major drug classes in greater detail, including how drugs work in the body, how they are processed, and their intended effects. Topics include side effects, drug interactions, contraindications, and nursing responsibilities. Students use critical thinking to make decisions about medication use in patients with multiple health conditions, those taking many medications, and special populations. Emphasis is placed on assessing patients, teaching about medications, and watching for both helpful and harmful effects. Dosage calculation and safe administration techniques are practiced to support safe and effective nursing care.