NA651 Pharmacology for Nurse Anesthetists (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): NA640  
This course introduces basic principles of pharmacology and focuses on those drugs most often used in the practice of anesthesia. The course provides an overview of drug actions, interactions, metabolism, methods of administration, dosages, side effects, precautions, and contraindications.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Possess a broad in-depth knowledge and understanding of the pharmacology of anesthetic agents.
2. Explain the principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
3. Describe, for each of the major classes of anesthetic agents and adjuncts presented the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic characteristics, methods of administration, dosages, side effects, precautions, and contraindications.
4. Describe the administration of general and regional anesthetic agents to all ages and categories of patients.
5. Understand the use of a broad variety of anesthetics adjunctive agents in anesthesia care.
6. Evaluate the patient’s medication history and propose additional diagnostic data as indicated.