1.1 Pharmacokinetics & Pharmacodynamics Introduction
Learning Objectives
- Discuss the processes of pharmacokinetics
- Use multiple professional resources, including technology, to identify pertinent information related to drugs
- Describe the processes of pharmacodynamics
- Consider pharmacodynamic differences across the life span
- Differentiate among prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, herbals, and dietary supplements
Safe medication administration is a vital component of the nursing role. Every day, nurses make critical decisions regarding the safety, appropriateness, and effectiveness of the medications administered to their clients. Examples of decisions that a nurse might make during client care are as follows:
- Is my client’s heart rate within the correct range to receive this beta-blocker medication?
- Does my client have adequate renal function prior to administering this dose of antibiotic?
- Is this pain medication effective in controlling my client’s discomfort?
To make safe decisions regarding medication administration, the nurse must have a strong understanding of pharmacology, the science dealing with actions of drugs on the body. Symptom management and a client’s overall well-being are strongly connected to the appropriate administration of medications prescribed in a client’s treatment plan. Before a student nurse reviews a medication order, checks a medication administration record, or removes a medication from a dispensing machine, it is essential to have a foundational understanding of how medications interact with the human body. This chapter will review basic concepts related to pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
The science dealing with actions of drugs on the body.