AHC 10103 - Introduction to Pharmacology and Dosage Calculations for Nurses

This course provides nursing students with a foundational understanding of pharmacology and its application in nursing practice. The theory component reviews essential math skills, including fractions, decimals, percentages, proportions, and unit conversions, to ensure competency in dosage calculations, which are critical for safe and accurate medication administration in RN practice.

Students will explore core pharmacological principles such as pharmaceutics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics, with a focus on lifespan considerations to deliver safe, effective care across various age groups. Key topics include routes of medication administration, advanced techniques for safe medication delivery, and strategies to prevent medication errors. The course also incorporates the nursing process and the Clinical Judgement Measurement Model (CJMM) to support patient-centered care and enhance clinical decision-making.

In the practical component, students will develop the hands-on knowledge and skills required for safe medication administration in diverse healthcare settings, ensuring they are prepared for real-world nursing practice. This course is designed to ensure nursing students are fully equipped to provide safe, effective pharmacological care while promoting optimal patient outcomes.

Offered: Fall

Semester Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): Official acceptance into the School of Nursing Program