HTH 140 - Pharmacology for Health Care Providers

Credit(s): 2

Prerequisite(s): a “C” (74%) in AHMA 201, AHMA 207, and AHMA 220, or instructor’s consent.
This course introduces the basic principles of pharmacology and provides an overview of pharmacology language, abbreviations, systems of measurement and conversions, the Controlled Substances Act, prescriptions, forms of medications and administration, the “Five Rights” of safe medication administration, patient care applications, drug classifications/interactions, and safety in drug therapy and patient care. Emphasis is placed on the Medical Assistant’s role in pharmacology. (Fall and Spring Semesters)

Course Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

Identify the medical assistant’s role in pharmacology.
Recognize the principles of drug action in the body and individual cells, including body absorption distribution, metabolism and elimination.
List the “Five Rights” of safe medication administration and explain the legal responsibilities in the administration of medications.
Interpret the possible side effects and related dispensing strategy for each drug class as well as for specific agents.
Differentiate the major drug categories, drug names, and their actions.
Classify over-the-counter (OTC), prescription, and herbal drugs.
Use credible sources to obtain drug information.
Differentiate basic arithmetic calculations and abbreviations required for medication administration.
Discuss the cultural diversity influences related to medication, plus pediatric and geriatric thinking to address special issues that exist for those age groups.