NUR 666 - Adv Pharmacology in Gerontological Nursing

2 credits
Independent and interdependent clinical decision-making in the diagnosis and treatment of common health problems of older adults in a variety of settings. Pharmacological variables specifically related to common aging changes and to pathological conditions are reinforced and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles are emphasized in relation to vulnerabilities of older adults of various ethnic and racial groups. Advanced pharmacology related to the treatment of health alterations, prescription writing, legal and ethical ramifications of practice and protocol development are emphasized. Differential diagnosis and clinical decisions are outcomes of synthesis of pharmacodynamics, laboratory values and protocol parameter. Racial and ethnic differences are factored in clinical decisions. The combined parameters of this course in pharmacology and gerontological nursing are the foundations of the knowledge base required for the provider in establishing differential diagnosis and prescription of medications in the care of older adults.