Catalog Description
Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Sierra College Associate Degree Nursing program
Corequisite: Concurrent enrollment in NRSR 23
Hours: 18 lecture
Description: Designed to provide nursing students with a comprehensive understanding of pharmacology as it relates to nursing practice. Students will explore the principles of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, emphasizing the actions, uses, and adverse effects of commonly used medications across diverse patient populations. (pass/no pass grading) (CSU)
Course Student Learning Outcomes
- CSLO #1: Identify the physiological and pharmacological effects of medications on different body systems.
- CSLO #2: Evaluate the effectiveness of medication therapy.
- CSLO #3: Demonstrate the application of evidence-based practices in medication administration including patient education, monitoring for adverse reactions and therapeutic effectiveness, and ensuring patient safety.
Effective Term
Fall 2025
Course Type
Credit - Degree-applicable
Contact Hours
18
Outside of Class Hours
36
Total Student Learning Hours
54
Course Objectives
1. Identify drug classes/therapy and their mechanisms of action across various body systems.
2. Explain the physiological effects of drugs on different body systems.
3. Assess the effectiveness of medication therapy by evaluating therapeutic outcomes.
4. Recognize potential adverse effects associated with medication use.
5. Prioritize patient safety in medication administration by adhering to best practices.
6. Educate patients on their prescribed medications, including dosage, potential side effects, and safe usage.
7. Monitor patients for adverse drug reactions during and after medication administration.
8. Ensure therapeutic effectiveness of medications by following evidence-based guidelines.
General Education Information
- Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
- CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
- Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
- IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)
Articulation Information
- CSU Transferable
Methods of Evaluation
- Objective Examinations
- Example: Sample Objective Question: A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with bipolar disorder who has been prescribed lithium carbonate. The nurse recognizes the importance of monitoring for potential side effects of lithium toxicity. Which assessment finding indicates a potential early sign of lithium toxicity? A. Increased appetite and weight gain B. Polyuria and excessive thirst C. Bradycardia and hypotension D. Tremors and confusion
Repeatable
No
Methods of Instruction
- Lecture/Discussion
- Distance Learning
Lecture:
- The instructor lectures/discusses an overview of the material to be covered and what to expect regarding module engagement. As a class, students will explore the nursing implications for administering and monitoring patients receiving body system-specific medications. Students will be encouraged to participate in discussions and ask questions.
Distance Learning
- Students will be assigned interactive, media-rich online modules focusing on specific body systems and their prototype drugs. Instructors will monitor student progression through modules via online instructor portal.
Typical Out of Class Assignments
Reading Assignments
Read module chapter Neurological system part 1 and be prepared to discuss in class the effects of the medications.
Writing, Problem Solving or Performance
• Interactive Table: Autonomic System • Matching Activity: Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Division • Cardiovascular System: Case Study with Questions
Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)
Required Materials
- Pharmacology Made Easy
- Author: Assessment Technologies Institute, Inc.
- Publisher: Assessment Technologies Institute, Inc.
- Publication Date: 2024
- Text Edition:
- Classic Textbook?: Yes
- OER Link:
- OER:
