Fundamentals of Pharmacology and Drug Administration

Vocabulary flashcards covering the importance of fundamental pharmacology and drug administration for healthcare providers.

Patient Safety

The prevention of harmful medication errors and risks of overdosing or underdosing through understanding drug actions, side effects, and interactions.

Dosage Calculations

The process of determining correct medication amounts based on a patient's age, weight, and condition.

Drug Selection and Administration

Ensuring the correct medication is provided for the right condition by understanding drug classes, indications, and contraindications.

Indications

The specific conditions or reasons for which a drug is considered an appropriate treatment.

Contraindications

Situations or conditions that make a particular treatment or drug inadvisable or potentially harmful.

Drug Interactions

Recognizing the potential for harmful effects when prescription drugs are used alongside over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements.

Legal and Ethical Standards

The adherence to controlled substance regulations, prescription requirements, and proper documentation practices in compliance with policies.

Patient Education

Explaining the purpose, expected effects, side effects, and proper use of medications in clear and understandable terms to patients.

Monitoring and Evaluation

The observation of patient responses and detection of adverse reactions by understanding drug onset, peak, and duration.

Drug Onset

A factor in monitoring patient response that refers to the time it takes for a drug to begin its therapeutic effect.

Drug Peak

A factor in monitoring patient response that refers to when the medication reaches its maximum concentration or effect.

Drug Duration

A factor in monitoring patient response that refers to the length of time the medication remains effective in the body.

Professional Competence and Confidence

The improvement of decision-making skills and reinforcement of trust from patients and colleagues built on a strong pharmacology foundation.

Administration Routes

Specific techniques for drug delivery including oral, topical, inhalation, intravenous, intramuscular, and subcutaneous methods.

Emergency Situations

Lifesaving scenarios requiring specific knowledge of the correct emergency drugs, dosages, and administration methods.