NUR 318: Advanced Concepts in Pharmacology

This course builds on foundational pharmacologic knowledge to explore complex drug therapies and advanced pharmacologic mechanisms within diverse clinical settings. Students examine each major drug class through the lens of pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, pharmacotherapeutics, adverse reactions, contraindications, and nursing implications. Emphasis is placed on critical assessment, patient education, and monitoring for both therapeutic and adverse effects. Students apply clinical reasoning to medication management for patients with polypharmacy, comorbidities, and evolving conditions, including considerations for special populations. Dosage calculation skills and safe administration techniques are practiced across various routes, supporting the integration of pharmacology into comprehensive, patient-centered nursing care.