Course Description
Explores psychopharmacological treatment for psychiatric, mental, behavioral, and substance abuse disorders across the lifespan, covering pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, major drug classes, indications, dosing, side effects, and interactions. Students learn evidence-based medication management strategies and recent advances in neurobiology and psychopharmacology for advanced nursing practice in diverse clinical settings. Prerequisite: Advanced pharmacology or permission of instructor; Corequisite: NUR 677, NUR 678.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
- Synthesize recent advances in neurobiology, genomics, and psychopharmacology to inform clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.
- Analyze the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of major drug classes used in psychopharmacology, including their interactions with nonprescription substances.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of various psychopharmacological treatments for psychiatric, mental, and behavioral disorders across different patient populations.
- Demonstrate knowledge of ethical prescribing practices and medication management for the PMHNP.
Course Grading Information:
| Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
| Syllabus Quiz | Complete/Incomplete |
| Quizzes/Exams | 40% |
| Small Group Assignments | 10% |
| Discussion Boards | 10% |
| Paper | 20% |
| Case Studies | 20% |
Grading Scale:
| Percentage | Letter Grade |
|---|---|
| 100-93 | A |
| 92-85 | B |
| 84-77 | C |
| 76 or less | F |
Attendance/Participation:
In an asynchronous course, students are expected to identify and commit to specific times within each 7-day week to complete required activities and assignments. A student will be considered absent if they fail to participate in assignments that involve peer interaction, such as discussion board posts or group projects, or if assignments are submitted late. Late submissions may also result in a reduction in the assignment grade.
Extenuating Circumstances: In cases of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances that require your absence, please inform the instructor via email as soon as possible. Include details about the situation and, if appropriate, provide supporting documentation.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
No course materials are required.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.