Pharmacology Video Series Introduction

Presenter: Cathy Parkes

• Registered nurse, certified wound care nurse, public health nurse.
• Introduction to a pharmacology video series.
• Will use flashcards (edition 2.0) available on leveluprn.com.
• Flashcards are recommended but not necessary.

General Tips for Studying Pharmacology

Study Techniques

• Repetition is key: Use flashcards frequently.
• Distribute study time over several days rather than cramming in one day.
• Take flashcards everywhere for consistent exposure and study.

Key Points with Flashcards

• Pay attention to items bolded and in red; they are critical for exams and nursing practice.
• Includes mnemonic tips for remembering medications (some may be PG-13).

General Pharmacology Tips

Generic vs. Brand Names

• Know generic names of medications as tests will provide these.
• Brand names can aid in remembering generic names but focus on generics.

Pregnancy and Medications

• Most medications are not safe during pregnancy.
• Do not focus on categories (A, B, C, D) too heavily.

Food Interactions

• Grapefruit juice interacts with many medications; a safe choice to remember.
• More specific interactions will be covered in future videos.

Medication Administration Advice

• Do not discontinue medications abruptly.
• Do not double doses if a dose is missed, except certain medications like birth control pills.

Antibiotics

• Perform culture and sensitivity before starting antibiotics.
• Complete the full course of antibiotics.

Extended-release Capsules

• Do not chew or crush extended-release medications.

Common Side Effects

• Opt for common side effects like headaches or GI upset.

Side Effects Intuition

• Consider what happens if medication works too well:
  • Blood pressure meds: Hypotension.
  • Diabetic meds: Hypoglycemia.
  • Anticoagulants: Bleeding.

Upcoming Content

• Next video: specific medications in the respiratory system, focusing on airway and breathing.

Community Engagement

• Encourage sharing the channel with classmates.
• Invite viewers to share tips in the comments.

Conclusion

• Like and subscribe for more content.
• Aim to help students succeed and become effective nurses.