Chapter 1. Pharmacology

For a number of years, I have searched for a way to help students understand and apply knowledge of pharmacology to nursing practice. The graduate nurse is frequently responsible for instructing the client and the client’s family regarding the safe administration of medications. The study of pharmacology is constantly changing as new drugs are constantly being approved for public use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recent test plan approved by the National Council Licensure Exam devotes 13%–19% of the Physiological Integrity section to pharmacology. This chapter contains useful information to help you look at the classification and generic name of drugs. If you can remember the drug classification, frequently you can understand why the drug was ordered.