NURS-6521 – Advanced Pharmacology: Understanding Drug Mechanisms, Therapeutics, and Clinical Applications

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Introduction:

NURS-6521 – Advanced Pharmacology focuses on the advanced study of drug therapy, mechanisms of action, and patient-centered medication management. The course enhances clinical judgment and evidence-based prescribing in advanced nursing roles. For professional help with pharmacology case studies or medication analysis assignments, visit Owlisdom’s Nursing Coursework Help.

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W1: Assignment 1: Case Studies

Instructions of NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W1

Directions: For each of the scenarios below, answer the questions below using clinical practice guideline where applicable. Explain the problem and explain how you would address the problem. If prescribing a new drug, write out a complete medication order just as you would if you were completing a prescription. Use at least 3 sources for each scenario and cite sources using APA format.


  1. A 52-year-old man was recently discharged from the hospital following treatment for atrial fibrillation. He was discharged on Warfarin 5 mg po q day and Amiodarone 200 mg tid. His INR is 8.8. What interaction has occurred with these 2 medications? What changes in his medications would you make?

  2. A 44-year-old women is currently taking Glipizide and Phenytoin. She has a new prescription for Ceftriaxone. All three medications are known to be highly protein bound. What effect does protein binding have on drug availability? How would you manage this patient’s medication?

  3. Name two drugs that are highly affected by the first pass effect. As a prescriber, what actions would you take in prescribing these drugs to counter the first pass effect?

  4. James is a 49-year-old male that was prescribed atenolol for his high blood
    pressure. James states that he only occasionally takes the medication because he does not like the side effects. What information would you provide to the patient at his visit? How would you manage his medication?

ASSIGNMENT 1: CASE STUDIES

Case studies are a useful way for you to apply your knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic aspects of pharmacology to specific patient cases and health histories.

For this Assignment, you evaluate drug treatment plans for patients with various disorders and justify drug therapy plans based on patient history and diagnosis.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

To Prepare:

  • Review the case study posted in “Announcements” by your Instructor for this Assignment
  • Review the information provided and answer questions posed in the case study
  • When recommending a medication, write out a complete prescription for the medication
  • Whenever possible, use clinical practice guidelines in developing your answers when possible
  • Include at least three references to support your answer and cite them in APA format.

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 1

Submit the Assignment.

SUBMISSION INFORMATION

Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area. 

  1. To submit your completed assignment, save your Assignment as WK1Assgn1_LastName_Firstinitial
  2. Then, click on Start Assignment near the top of the page.

Next, click on Upload File and select Submit Assignment for review

Step-By-Step Guide NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W1: Assignment 1: Case Studies

Introduction to NURS-6521 Week 1: Assignment 1: Case Studies

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W1: Assignment 1: Case Studies. In this week’s assignment, you will apply your knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to real-world scenarios. This exercise aims to enhance your clinical decision-making skills and understanding of drug interactions, protein binding, the first-pass effect, and patient education regarding medication adherence. You will evaluate drug treatment plans, justify your recommendations, and ensure they align with best practices and ethical/legal guidelines.

A 52-year-old man was recently discharged from the hospital following treatment for atrial fibrillation. He was discharged on Warfarin 5 mg po q day and Amiodarone 200 mg tid. His INR is 8.8. What interaction has occurred with these two medications? What changes in his medications would you make?

 Scenario 1: Atrial Fibrillation and Medication Interaction

  • Describe how Warfarin and Amiodarone interact and the resulting impact on the patient’s INR.
  • Research how Amiodarone increases Warfarin levels, leading to a high INR.
  • Adjust Medication: Propose changes to the medication regimen to address the high INR.
  • Consider lowering the Warfarin dose or adjusting Amiodarone timing.
  • Write out a new prescription based on your adjustments.
Example

A 52-year-old man was recently discharged from the hospital following treatment for atrial fibrillation. He was discharged on Warfarin 5 mg po q day and Amiodarone 200 mg tid. His INR is 8.8. The interaction between Warfarin and Amiodarone is significant because Amiodarone inhibits the metabolism of Warfarin, leading to elevated Warfarin levels and an increased INR (Elliott et al., 2023).

A 44-year-old woman is currently taking Glipizide and Phenytoin. She has a new prescription for Ceftriaxone. All three medications are known to be highly protein-bound. What effect does protein binding have on drug availability? How would you manage this patient’s medication?

Scenario 2: Protein Binding and Drug Availability 

  • Discuss how protein binding affects drug availability and potential interactions.
  • Describe the competition for binding sites and its impact on drug efficacy.
  • Manage Medication: Propose a management plan to avoid adverse interactions.
  • Consider timing adjustments or alternative medications.
  •  Complete Medication Order: Write a detailed prescription order.
  • Be courteous and constructive in your responses, avoiding any language that could be perceived as disrespectful.
Example

A 44-year-old woman is currently taking Glipizide and Phenytoin and has a new prescription for Ceftriaxone. All three medications are highly protein-bound, meaning they compete for binding sites on plasma proteins. This competition can increase the free (active) concentrations of the drugs, potentially leading to toxicity or decreased efficacy. To manage this patient’s medication, it is crucial to monitor drug levels closely and adjust dosages as necessary to maintain therapeutic levels without causing adverse effects (Wicha et al., 2021).

Name two drugs that are highly affected by the first-pass effect. As a prescriber, what actions would you take in prescribing these drugs to counter the first-pass effect?

 Scenario 3: First Pass Effect 

  • List two drugs significantly impacted by the first-pass effect.
  • Tip: Common examples include propranolol and morphine.
  • Prescribing Actions: Describe strategies to mitigate the first-pass effect.
  • Tip: Consider alternative routes of administration (e.g., IV, sublingual).
Example

Two drugs highly affected by the first-pass effect are propranolol and morphine. The first-pass effect significantly reduces their bioavailability when administered orally. As a prescriber, to counter this effect, alternative routes of administration should be considered. For propranolol, using an IV formulation in acute settings can bypass the first-pass metabolism, ensuring that the drug reaches therapeutic levels more quickly (Kalam et al., 2020). For morphine, sublingual or IV routes can be used to achieve the desired analgesic effect without significant loss of drug efficacy through metabolism in the liver

James is a 49-year-old male who was prescribed atenolol for his high blood pressure. James states that he only occasionally takes the medication because he does not like the side effects. What information would you provide to the patient at his visit? How would you manage his medication?

Scenario 4: Patient Education and Medication Adherence 

  • Explain the importance of medication adherence and potential risks of non-compliance.
  • Highlight the long-term benefits and address side effect concerns.
  • Manage Medication: Adjust the treatment plan to improve adherence.
  • Consider alternative medications or dose adjustments.
  • Complete Medication Order: Provide a revised prescription.
Example

James, a 49-year-old male prescribed atenolol for hypertension, reports that he only occasionally takes his medication due to side effects. In this case, it is crucial to educate James on the importance of regular medication adherence to control blood pressure and prevent complications such as stroke or heart attack (Siddiqui et al., 2023). Discussing the potential long-term benefits and addressing his concerns about side effects is essential.

 Closing 

In the NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W1: Assignment 1: Case Studies, you will hone your ability to evaluate and adjust drug treatment plans, ensuring they are safe, effective, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs. By applying clinical practice guidelines, writing accurate medication orders, and supporting your decisions with credible sources, you will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the ethical/legal aspects of prescribing. This Owlisdom assignment will strengthen your clinical acumen and prepare you for real-world patient care challenges. In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology Assignment 2: Practicum Manual.

References

Elliott, A. D., Middeldorp, M. E., Van Gelder, I. C., Albert, C. M., & Sanders, P. (2023). Epidemiology and modifiable risk factors for atrial fibrillation. Nature Reviews Cardiology, 20(6), 404–417. 

Kalam, M. N., Rasool, M. F., Rehman, A. U., & Ahmed, N. (2020). Clinical pharmacokinetics of propranolol hydrochloride: A review. Current Drug Metabolism, 21(2), 89–105. 

Siddiqui, M. F., Rasheed, M., Alwazzan, A., & Sarwar, S. (2023). Effectiveness of Atenolol based on Pattern of Side Effects in Hypertensive Patients: Effectiveness of Atenolol in Hypertensive Patients. DIET FACTOR (Journal of Nutritional and Food Sciences), 32–36. 

Wicha, S. G., Märtson, A., Nielsen, E. I., Koch, B. C. P., Friberg, L. E., Alffenaar, J., Minichmayr, I. K., & the International Society of Anti‐Infective Pharmacology (ISAP), the PK/PD study group of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology, Infectious Diseases (EPASG). (2021). From Therapeutic Drug Monitoring to Model‐Informed Precision Dosing for Antibiotics. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 109(4), 928–941. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpt.2202

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Assignment 2: Practicum Manual

Instructions for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Assignment 2

ASSIGNMENT 2: PRACTICUM MANUAL

PART 1

The Practicum Manual describes the structure and timing of the classroom-based and practicum experiences and the policies students must follow to be successful in the nurse practitioner (NP) specialties.

Field Experience: MSN Nurse Practitioner Practicum ManualLinks to an external site.

PART 2

This mandatory assignment is an acknowledgement that you fully understand the course guidelines.

BY DAY 3 OF WEEK 1

Complete your Assignment.

PRACTICUM – UPCOMING DEADLINE

In the Nurse Practitioner programs of study (PNP, FNP, AGACNP, AGPCNP, and PMHNP), you are required to take several practicum courses. If you plan on taking a practicum course within the next two terms, you will need to submit your application via MeditrekLinks to an external site..

For information on the practicum application process and deadlines, please visit the Field Experience: College of Nursing: Application Process—GraduateLinks to an external site. web page.

Please take the time to review the Appropriate Preceptors and Field SitesLinks to an external site. for your courses.

Please take the time to review the practicum manuals, FAQs, webinars, and any required forms on the Field Experience: College of Nursing: Student Resources and ManualsLinks to an external site. web page.

Introduction to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Assignment 2: Practicum Manual

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Assignment 2: Practicum Manual. This Owlisdom assignment focuses on understanding and acknowledging the guidelines and structure of the practicum experiences necessary for your nurse practitioner (NP) specialties. The assignment is divided into two parts: understanding the Practicum Manual and acknowledging your comprehension of the course guidelines. This NURS-6521 guide will help you navigate the steps to successfully complete each part of the assignment.

The Practicum Manual describes the structure and timing of the classroom-based and practicum experiences and the policies students must follow to be successful in the nurse practitioner (NP) specialties.

Understanding the Practicum Manual

  • Thoroughly read the Practicum Manual to understand the structure, timing, and requirements of your practicum.
  • Focus on sections detailing preceptor requirements, practicum site criteria, and the application process.
  • Familiarize yourself with the policies related to attendance, performance, and documentation.
  • Pay special attention to deadlines and required documentation to avoid delays in your practicum progress.
  • Identify the courses in your degree plan that require practicum and plan your schedule accordingly.
  • Schedule a meeting with your Student Success Advisor or Tempo Academic Coach to ensure you are on track with your practicum courses.
Example

The Practicum Manual for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology is a comprehensive document outlining the structure and timing of classroom-based and practicum experiences, essential for success in nurse practitioner (NP) specialties. Understanding this manual is crucial as it provides detailed guidelines and policies that students must follow to complete their practicum successfully.

Firstly, I thoroughly reviewed the Practicum Manual to understand the various components of my practicum. This included sections on preceptor requirements, practicum site criteria, and the application process.

This mandatory assignment is an acknowledgment that you fully understand the course guidelines.

Acknowledge Course Guidelines

  • Carefully review the course guidelines provided in the syllabus and the Practicum Manual.
  • Ensure you understand the expectations for assignments, assessments, and practicum requirements.
  • Complete any required acknowledgment forms or assignments confirming that you have read and understood the course guidelines.
  • This step is often a mandatory online form or quiz. Ensure you complete it by the specified deadline.
Example

Understanding the policies related to attendance, performance, and documentation was my next step. These policies are designed to help students stay on track and meet all necessary criteria for successful practicum completion. Regularly revisiting these policies will help ensure adherence throughout the practicum period.

Closing 

In NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Assignment 2: Practicum Manual, you will enhance your understanding of the practicum structure and the policies essential for your success in the NP program. By thoroughly reviewing the Practicum Manual and acknowledging the course guidelines, you will be well-prepared to embark on your practicum journey. This foundational knowledge is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful practicum experience, ultimately contributing to your development as a competent and confident nurse practitioner. In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology Week 2: The Cardiovascular System.

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 2: The Cardiovascular System

Instructions for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 2

USING THE MEDSCAPE APPLICATION

This Quiz will test your knowledge on the resources presented each week. These quizzes will help prepare you for the midterm and final exams later in the course. 

To prepare:

  • View all of the Required Learning Resources.
  • Download the Medscape app or access the content via Medscape.comLinks to an external site. under the “Drugs and Diseases” heading. Utilizing this app or website, answer the questions in the quiz. 

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 2

Complete the Quiz by Day 7 of Week 2.

Introduction to NURS-6521 WEEK 2: THE CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM QUIZ

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 2: The Cardiovascular System. This NURS-6521 assignment will help you apply your knowledge of cardiovascular pharmacology through practical exercises using the Medscape application. You will utilize various resources to complete a quiz that prepares you for your midterm and final exams. NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 2: The Cardiovascular System guide provides step-by-step instructions on effectively using Medscape and other resources to complete the quiz.

Note: A practice quiz is also provided on how to Owlisdom guide and find a solution. These are just practice quiz to test your knowledge as you prepare for the quiz.

Preparatory Tips For The Quiz

  • Ensure you read and understand all assigned resources. Focus on the key concepts related to cardiovascular pharmacology.
  • Download the Medscape app or access the content via Medscape.com under the “Drugs and Diseases” heading.
  • Create a free account if required to access all features.
  • Bookmark the page for easy access during your study sessions.
  • Go to the “Drugs and Diseases” section in the Medscape app or website.
  • Use the search bar to quickly find specific drugs, diseases, or conditions mentioned in your quiz.
  • Read the entries thoroughly, focusing on drug interactions, side effects, contraindications, and clinical guidelines.
  • Allocate time each day to answer a few questions, ensuring thorough research and understanding.
  • Ensure your quiz is submitted by Day 7 of Week 2 to meet the deadline.

SAMPLE QUIZ AND ANSWERS

This practice quiz is designed to test your knowledge of the cardiovascular system as covered in NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 2: The Cardiovascular System.

(Note: The correct answers are underlined)

Quiz Questions

  1. Which of the following drugs is a first-line treatment for hypertension?
  • A. Furosemide
  • B. Lisinopril
  • C. Digoxin
  • D. Nitroglycerin

Beta-blockers are contraindicated in patients with which of the following conditions?

  • A. Hypertension
  • B. Asthma
  • C. Myocardial infarction
  • D. Heart failure

Which of the following medications is primarily used for the management of angina pectoris?

  • A. Atorvastatin
  • B. Metoprolol
  • C. Nitroglycerin
  • D. Clopidogrel

What is the mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors?

  • A. They block the angiotensin II receptors.
  • B. They inhibit the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
  • C. They block beta-adrenergic receptors.
  • D. They inhibit calcium channels.

Which of the following drugs is most likely to cause a dry cough as a side effect?

  • A. Amlodipine
  • B. Lisinopril
  • C. Losartan
  • D. Atenolol

Closing 

In this Week 2 quiz for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 2: The Cardiovascular System, you will enhance your understanding of cardiovascular pharmacology by using the Medscape application to complete a quiz. This process will prepare you for your midterm and final exams. By following these Owlisdom guidelines, you can effectively navigate Medscape, utilize the required learning resources, and ensure thorough and accurate completion of your quiz. This practice will help solidify your knowledge and improve your clinical decision-making skills in cardiovascular pharmacology. In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology Week 3: The Respiratory System.

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 3: The Respiratory System

Instructions for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 3

WEEK 3: QUIZ

This Quiz will test your knowledge on the resources presented each week. These quizzes will help prepare you for the midterm and final exams later in the course. 

To prepare:

  • View all of the Required Learning Resources.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 3

Complete the Quiz by Day 7 of Week 3.

Introduction to NURS-6521 WEEK 3: The Respiratory System Quiz

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 3: The Respiratory System. This week’s assignment focuses on applying your knowledge of respiratory pharmacology through a practical quiz. The NURS-6521 quiz will test your understanding of the resources presented each week and help prepare you for the midterm and final exams. This Owlisdom guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to use the provided learning resources to complete the quiz effectively.

Note: A practice quiz is also provided on how to guide and find a solution. These are just practice quizzes to test your knowledge as you prepare for the quiz.

Preparatory Tips For The Quiz

  • Ensure you read and understand all assigned resources. Focus on the key concepts related to respiratory pharmacology
  • Take notes on important points, drug mechanisms, and clinical applications discussed in the resources.
  • Access the weekly resources link provided in your course materials to find the necessary content.
  • Bookmark the page for easy access during your study sessions.
  • Go through each resource thoroughly, focusing on drug interactions, side effects, contraindications, and clinical guidelines related to the respiratory system.
  • Use the search function to locate specific information within the resources quickly.

 Sample quiz and answer 

This practice quiz tests your knowledge of the Respiratory System as covered in NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 3: The Respiratory System.

(Note: The correct answers are underlined)

Quiz Questions

  1. Which of the following is a short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) used for quick relief in asthma attacks?
  1. Salmeterol
  2. Albuterol
  3. Montelukast
  4. Fluticasone
  1. Which medication is classified as a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) and is used for long-term control of asthma?
  1. Ipratropium
  2. Montelukast
  3. Theophylline
  4. Cromolyn
  1. What is the mechanism of action of inhaled corticosteroids in the treatment of asthma?
  1. Bronchodilation by relaxing smooth muscles
  2. Inhibition of inflammatory mediator release
  3. Blocking acetylcholine receptors
  4. Inhibiting leukotriene formation
  1. Which of the following medications is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) used in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
  1. Tiotropium
  2. Albuterol
  3. Montelukast
  4. Theophylline
  1. For which condition is theophylline most commonly prescribed?
  1. Acute asthma attacks
  2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  3. Seasonal allergies
  4. Pulmonary hypertension

Closing 

In this quiz for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 3: The Respiratory System, you will use the Medscape application to complete a quiz to enhance your understanding of cardiovascular pharmacology. This process will prepare you for your midterm and final exams. Following these guidelines, you can effectively navigate Medscape, utilize the required learning resources, and ensure thorough and accurate quiz completion. This practice will help solidify your knowledge and improve your clinical decision-making skills in cardiovascular pharmacology. In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology W4: Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Systems.

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W4: Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Systems

Instructions of NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W4

Week 4 Scenarios

Charisma Kathryn Caldwell

1 Section Advanced Pharmacology-Spring 2024

No unread replies replies.

Directions: For each of the scenarios below, answer the questions below using clinical practice guideline where applicable. Explain the problem and explain how you would address the problem. If prescribing a new drug, write out a complete medication order just as you would if you were completing a prescription. Use at least 3 sources for each scenario and cite sources using APA format.

  1. Sara is a 45-year-old female presenting for her annual exam. Her blood pressure today is 160/90 HR 84 RR 16. Her height is 64 inches and her weight is 195. Her last visit to the clinic 3 months ago shows a BP of 156/92. She is currently taking ibuprofen 600 mg tid for back pain. She has no known allergies. What is the goal for her blood pressure? What medication would you prescribe to treat her blood pressure? What education would you prescribe?
  1. Monty is a 52-year-old male following up on his labs that were drawn last week. He smokes 1 pack per day. He is currently on Lisinopril 20 mg po daily. He is allergic to penicillin. Fasting lipid profile shows total cholesterol 266, LDL cholesterol 180, HDL cholesterol 40, and Triglycerides 185. What treatment plan would you implement for Monty’s lipid profile? What is the goal Total Cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, and LDL-C level for Monty? How would you monitor the effectiveness of your treatment plan? How many risk factors for coronary artery disease does this patient have? Identify them specifically.
  1. Beatrice is a 17-year-old female diagnosed with mild persistent asthma since age 7. During her visit today, she reports having to use her albuterol MDI 3 to 4 days per week over the past 2 months. Over the past week she has been using albuterol at least once per day. She reports being awakened by a cough three nights during the last month. She is becoming more short of breath with exercise. She also has a fluticasone MDI, which she uses “most days of the week.” Her current medications include: Flovent HFA 44 mcg, two puffs BID, Proventil HFA two puffs Q 4–6 H PRN shortness of breath, Yaz one PO daily, Propranolol 80 mg PO BID. What treatment plan would you implement for this patient? What medication changes would you make? How would you monitor the effectiveness of this plan?
  1. Daute is a 56-year-old man seeking evaluation for increasing shortness of breath. He noticed difficulty catching his breath about 3 years ago. Physical activity increases his symptoms. He avoids activity as much as possible to prevent any SOB. His previous physician had placed him on salmeterol/fluticasone (Advair Diskus) one inhalation twice daily 2 years ago. He thinks his physician initiated the medication for the shortness of breath, but he is not entirely sure. He did not refill the prescription and has not been taking it. Pertinent history – Chronic bronchitis X 8 years with one exacerbation in last 12 months of treatment with oral antibiotics. He has a 40-pack-year smoking history. What treatment plan would you implement for this patient? What medication(s) would you prescribe? How would you monitor the effectiveness of this plan?

ASSIGNMENT: CASE STUDIES

Case studies are a useful way for you to apply your knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic aspects of pharmacology to specific patient cases and health histories.

For this Assignment, you evaluate drug treatment plans for patients with various disorders and justify drug therapy plans based on patient history and diagnosis.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

To Prepare:

  • Review the case study posted in “Announcements” by your Instructor for this Assignment
  • Review the information provided and answer the questions posed in the case study
  • When recommending a medication, write out a complete prescription for the medication
  • Whenever possible, use clinical practice guidelines in developing your answers when possible
  • Include at least three references to support your answer and cite them in APA format.

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 4

Submit the Assignment.

SUBMISSION INFORMATION

Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area. 

  1. To submit your completed assignment, save your Assignment as WK4Assgn_LastName_Firstinitial
  2. Then, click on Start Assignment near the top of the page.

Next, click on Upload File and select Submit Assignment for review.

Introduction to NURS-6521 week 4 scenarios

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W4: Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Systems. The W4 Scenarios assignment focuses on applying your knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to specific patient cases related to the gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary systems. Through case studies, you will evaluate and justify drug treatment plans based on patient history and diagnosis. This NURS-6521 guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you complete each scenario.

Sara is a 45-year-old female presenting for her annual exam. Her blood pressure today is 160/90 HR 84 RR 16. Her height is 64 inches, and her weight is 195. Her last visit to the clinic 3 months ago shows a BP of 156/92. She is currently taking ibuprofen 600 mg tid for back pain. She has no known allergies. What is the goal for her blood pressure? What medication would you prescribe to treat her blood pressure? What education would you prescribe?

 Sara’s Blood Pressure Management

  • The goal for Sara’s blood pressure is to lower it to less than 140/90 mmHg.
  • Use clinical practice guidelines to determine the target blood pressure.
  • Choose an antihypertensive medication, such as an ACE inhibitor or a calcium channel blocker.
  • Consider Sara’s other medications and potential interactions.
  • Patient Education: Educate Sara on lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise, and reducing sodium intake.
  • Discuss the importance of medication adherence and monitoring blood pressure regularly.
Example

Sara, a 45-year-old female, presents with a blood pressure (BP) of 160/90 mmHg, an increase from 156/92 mmHg recorded three months ago. Her current medications include ibuprofen 600 mg tid for back pain. The goal for Sara’s blood pressure is to reduce it to below 140/90 mmHg, as per clinical guidelines. Given her current readings and history, initiating an antihypertensive medication is warranted (Mahmood et al., 2021).

Monty is a 52-year-old male following up on his labs that were drawn last week. He smokes 1 pack per day. He is currently on Lisinopril 20 mg po daily. He is allergic to penicillin. Fasting lipid profile shows total cholesterol 266, LDL cholesterol 180, HDL cholesterol 40, and Triglycerides 185. What treatment plan would you implement for Monty’s lipid profile? What is the goal Total Cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, and LDL-C levels for Monty? How would you monitor the effectiveness of your treatment plan? How many risk factors for coronary artery disease does this patient have? Identify them specifically.

Monty’s Lipid Profile Management 

  • Initiate statin therapy to lower LDL cholesterol.
  • Consider prescribing atorvastatin or simvastatin.
  • Set Cholesterol Goals: Aim for TC < 200 mg/dL, LDL-C < 100 mg/dL, and HDL-C > 60 mg/dL.
  • Use guidelines to set realistic and achievable targets.
  • Monitor Effectiveness: Schedule follow-up lipid panels every 3 months.
  • Adjust medication dosage based on lipid panel results.
  • Identify Risk Factors: Monty has four risk factors: smoking, hypertension, elevated LDL, and low HDL.
  • Educate Monty on smoking cessation and lifestyle modifications.
Example

Monty, a 52-year-old male, presents with a fasting lipid profile indicating hyperlipidemia: total cholesterol (TC) of 266 mg/dL, LDL cholesterol of 180 mg/dL, HDL cholesterol of 40 mg/dL, and triglycerides of 185 mg/dL. He has a history of smoking (1 pack per day) and is currently on Lisinopril 20 mg daily for hypertension. Given his elevated lipid levels, the treatment plan should include initiating statin therapy, such as atorvastatin 20 mg once daily, to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce overall cardiovascular risk (Tong et al., 2021). 

Beatrice is a 17-year-old female diagnosed with mild persistent asthma since age 7. During her visit today, she reports having to use her albuterol MDI 3 to 4 days per week over the past 2 months. Over the past week, she has been using albuterol at least once per day. She reports being awakened by a cough three nights during the last month. She is becoming more short of breath with exercise. She also has a fluticasone MDI, which she uses “most days of the week.” Her current medications include: Flovent HFA 44 mcg, two puffs BID, Proventil HFA two puffs Q 4–6 H PRN shortness of breath, Yaz one PO daily, and Propranolol 80 mg PO BID. What treatment plan would you implement for this patient? What medication changes would you make? How would you monitor the effectiveness of this plan?

 Beatrice’s Asthma Management

  • Step up therapy by increasing the dosage of inhaled corticosteroids and adding a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) if needed.
  • Consider combination therapy with fluticasone/salmeterol.
  • Adjust Medications: Discontinue propranolol as it may exacerbate asthma symptoms.
  • Replace with a beta-1 selective blocker if necessary.
  • Monitor Effectiveness: Schedule follow-up visits every 4-6 weeks to assess symptom control and medication adherence.
  • Use spirometry to measure lung function.

Exam

Beatrice, a 17-year-old female with mild persistent asthma, reports increased use of her albuterol metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and frequent nighttime awakenings due to coughing. Her current medications include Flovent HFA 44 mcg two puffs BID, Proventil HFA two puffs Q 4-6 H PRN, Yaz one PO daily, and Propranolol 80 mg PO BID. Given her increased asthma symptoms, the treatment plan should be stepped up (Cazzola et al., 2021). 

Daute is a 56-year-old man seeking evaluation for increasing shortness of breath. He noticed difficulty catching his breath about 3 years ago. Physical activity increases his symptoms. He avoids activity as much as possible to prevent any SOB. His previous physician had placed him on salmeterol/fluticasone (Advair Diskus) one inhalation twice daily 2 years ago. He thinks his physician initiated the medication for the shortness of breath, but he is not entirely sure. He did not refill the prescription and has not been taking it. Pertinent history – Chronic bronchitis X 8 years with one exacerbation in the last 12 months of treatment with oral antibiotics. He has a 40-pack-year smoking history. What treatment plan would you implement for this patient? What medication(s) would you prescribe? How would you monitor the effectiveness of this plan?

Daute’s Shortness of Breath Management

  • Restart Advair Diskus and consider adding a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) such as tiotropium.
  • Emphasize the importance of medication adherence.
  • Advair Diskus one inhalation BID, Tiotropium one inhalation daily.
  • Ensure the patient understands how to use inhalers properly.
  • Schedule regular follow-up appointments to assess symptom control and adjust treatment as necessary.
  • Use COPD assessment tools and spirometry for monitoring.
Example

Daute, a 56-year-old man with a history of chronic bronchitis and a significant smoking history, presents with increasing shortness of breath (SOB) over the past three years. He has been non-compliant with his previously prescribed salmeterol/fluticasone (Advair Diskus). To manage his symptoms effectively, the treatment plan should include restarting Advair Diskus, one inhalation twice daily, to provide both long-acting beta-agonist and corticosteroid benefits(Singh et al., 2020).

 Closing 

In the W4 assignment for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W4: Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Systems, you will enhance your understanding of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics by evaluating drug treatment plans for various patient scenarios. By following these Owlisdom guidelines, you can effectively address each patient’s needs, prescribe appropriate medications, and ensure thorough monitoring of treatment plans. This practice will help solidify your clinical decision-making skills and improve patient outcomes in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary disorders. In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology Week 5: Endocrine System Disorders.

References

Cazzola, M., Matera, M. G., Rogliani, P., Calzetta, L., & Ora, J. (2021). Step-up and step-down approaches in the treatment of asthma. Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine, 15(9), 1159–1168. https://doi.org/10.1080/17476348.2021.1935245

Mahmood, S., Jalal, Z., Hadi, M. A., Khan, T. M., Haque, M. S., & Shah, K. U. (2021). Prevalence of non-adherence to antihypertensive medication in Asia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy, 43(3), 486–501. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11096-021-01236-z

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 5: Endocrine System Disorders

Instructions for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 5

WEEK 5: QUIZ

This Quiz will test your knowledge of the resources presented each week. These quizzes will help prepare you for the midterm and final exams later in the course. 

To prepare:

  • View all of the Required Learning Resources.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 5

Complete the Quiz by Day 7 of Week 5.

Introduction to NURS-6521 WEEK 5: Endocrine System Disorders Quiz

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 5: Endocrine System Disorders. The W5 Quiz tests your knowledge of endocrine system disorders through a practical quiz. The quiz will assess your understanding of the weekly resources and prepare you for the midterm and final exams. This Owlisdom guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to use the provided learning resources to complete the quiz effectively.

In Pharmacology Made Easy 5.0: The Endocrine System Test, you will find a comprehensive overview of key topics. Note: A Practice Quiz is also provided in this how-to guide and solution. These are just practice quizzes to test your knowledge as you prepare for the quiz, helping you identify areas where you may need further review. 

Preparatory Tips For The Quiz

  • Ensure you read and understand all assigned resources. Focus on key concepts related to endocrine system disorders.
  • Access the weekly resources link provided in your course materials to find the necessary content.
  • Bookmark the page for easy access during your study sessions.
  • Go through each resource thoroughly, focusing on drug interactions, side effects, contraindications, and clinical guidelines related to the endocrine system.
  • Begin working on the quiz well before the deadline to avoid last-minute stress.
  • Allocate daily time to answer a few questions, ensuring thorough research and understanding.
  • Provide complete and accurate answers supported by information from the weekly resources and your learning materials.
  • Before submitting the NURS 6521 Week 5 Quiz, review all answers to ensure they are correct and well-supported by your research. This will help you confirm that your responses are accurate and backed by solid evidence, ultimately improving your performance. 
  • Ensure your quiz is submitted by Day 7 of Week 2 to meet the deadline.

SAMPLE QUIZ AND ANSWERS

This practice quiz tests your knowledge of the Endocrine System Disorders as covered in Week 5 of NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 5: Endocrine System Disorders.

(Note: The correct answers are underlined)

Quiz Questions

  1. Which of the following is a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes?
  • A. Metformin
  • B. Insulin
  • C. Glipizide
  • D. Pioglitazone
  1. Which medication is used for the treatment of hypothyroidism?
  • A. Propylthiouracil
  • B. Levothyroxine
  • C. Methimazole
  • D. Liothyronine
  1. What is the mechanism of action of thiazolidinediones (TZDs) in diabetes management?
  • A. Increase insulin secretion from the pancreas
  • B. Decrease hepatic glucose production
  • C. Increase insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues
  • D. Delay gastric emptying
  1. Which of the following medications is an SGLT2 inhibitor used in diabetes management?
  • A. Sitagliptin
  • B. Canagliflozin
  • C. Exenatide
  • D. Acarbose
  1. For which condition is desmopressin commonly prescribed?
  • A. Addison’s disease
  • B. Diabetes insipidus
  • C. Cushing’s syndrome
  • D. Hyperthyroidism

Closing 

In this Quiz for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 5: Endocrine System Disorders, you will enhance your understanding of endocrine system disorders by utilizing the weekly resources to complete a quiz. This process will prepare you for your midterm and final exams. Following these guidelines, you can effectively navigate the provided resources, utilise the required learning materials, and ensure thorough and accurate quiz completion. This practice will help solidify your knowledge and improve your clinical decision-making skills in managing endocrine disorders. In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology Week 7: Musculoskeletal System: Case Studies.

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 7: Musculoskeletal System: Case Studies

Instructions for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 7

Directions: For each of the scenarios below, answer the questions using clinical
Practice guideline where applicable. Explain the problem and explain how you would
address the problem. If prescribing a new drug, write out a complete medication order
just as you would if you were completing a prescription. Use at least 3 sources for each
scenario and cite sources using APA format.


  1. Mary is a 35-year-old woman that has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Her
    labs today show a TSH of 20, MCV 78, MCHD 26, Ferritin 9, TIBC 418. She has
    a history of iron deficiency anemia for 2 months. Current medications include
    Kelp tablets daily, ibuprofen 400 mg daily as needed, and ethinyl
    estradiol/norgestrel one tablet daily. What medication would you start this patien?t
    on for her hypothyroidism? How would you monitor this patient’s response to the
    medication? What education would you provide regarding her medications and
    their interactions?

  2. Joe is a 48-year-old male diagnosed with Type II Diabetes Mellitus for a year
    ago. He has controlled his blood glucose through dietary changes. He has
    hypertension and is currently on Lisinopril 20 mg po daily. He has no known
    allergies. His lab work includes these results: fasting BG is 225 mg/dL; HgA1C =
    7.5%. Basic Metabolic Profile (BMP) is normal except for a Cr of 2.0 and eGRF
    of 28. What treatment plan would you implement for Joe? What medications
    would you prescribe and how would you monitor them? What education would
    you provide regarding his treatment plan?
  3. Jose is a 55-year-old truck driver being evaluated for his commercial driver’s license
    license. He has a known history of diabetes mellitus type II. Current medications
    include Metformin 1000 mg Bid, Glipizide 20 mg po daily. Diltiazem 120 mg po
    BID. He is allergic to sulfa. Lab results show a fasting blood glucose of 325
    mg/dL, HgA1C = 10.6%. Basic metabolic Profile is normal. What treatment plan
    would you implement for Jose? What medications would you prescribe and how
    would you monitor them? What education would you provide regarding his
    treatment plan?

  4. Jenny is a 63-year-old woman with complaints of heartburn 4 to 5 times a week
    over the past 3 months. Her symptoms are worse at night after going to bed. Her
    Heartburn is worse, and she coughs a lot at night. She has tried OTC Prevacid 24
    hour once daily for the past 2 weeks. This has helped the symptoms some, but
    She is still bothered by them. Current medications include Diltiazem CD 120 mg
    PO once daily, Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg PO once daily, Metformin 500 mg PO
    twice daily, Aspirin 81 mg PO daily, Fluticasone/salmeterol DPI 100 mcg/50 mcg
    One inhalation twice daily. Your working diagnosis for this patient is GERD. What
    What treatment plan would you implement for Jenny? What medications would you
    prescribe and how would you monitor them? What education would you provide?
    Regarding her treatment plan?

ASSIGNMENT: CASE STUDIES

Case studies are a useful way for you to apply your knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic aspects of pharmacology to specific patient cases and health histories.

For this Assignment, you evaluate drug treatment plans for patients with various disorders and justify drug therapy plans based on patient history and diagnosis.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

To Prepare:

  • Review the case study posted in “Announcements” by your Instructor for this Assignment
  • Review the information provided and answer the questions posed in the case study
  • When recommending a medication, write out a complete prescription for the medication
  • Whenever possible, use clinical practice guidelines in developing your answers when possible
  • Include at least three references to support your answer and cite them in APA format.

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 7

Submit the Assignment.

SUBMISSION INFORMATION

Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area. 

  1. To submit your completed assignment, save your Assignment as WK7Assgn_LastName_Firstinitial
  2. Then, click on Start Assignment near the top of the page.

Next, click on Upload File and select Submit Assignment for review.

Introduction to NURS-6521 Week 7: Assignment: Case Studies

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 7: Musculoskeletal System: Case Studies. This assignment focuses on applying your knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to specific patient cases related to the musculoskeletal system. Through case studies, you will evaluate and justify drug treatment plans based on patient history and diagnosis. 

This NURS-6521 guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you complete each scenario.

Mary is a 35-year-old woman diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Her labs today show a TSH of 20, MCV 78, MCHD 26, Ferritin 9, and TIBC 418. She has had a history of iron deficiency anemia for 2 months. Current medications include Kelp tablets daily, ibuprofen 400 mg daily as needed, and ethinyl estradiol/norgestrel one tablet daily. What medication would you start this patient on for her hypothyroidism?

 Mary’s Hypothyroidism and Anemia Management

  • Start Mary on Levothyroxine 50 mcg daily for hypothyroidism.
  • Adjust dose based on TSH levels in 6-8 weeks.
  • Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor TSH and symptoms.
  • Ensure regular lab tests to track progress.
  • Advise Mary to take Levothyroxine on an empty stomach and to separate it from her iron supplements by at least 4 hours.
  • Discuss potential side effects and the importance of adherence.
Example

Mary, a 35-year-old woman, presents with hypothyroidism, indicated by a TSH level of 20. She also has iron deficiency anemia with a ferritin level of 9, MCV of 78, and MCHD of 26. Current medications include kelp tablets, ibuprofen 400 mg daily, and ethinyl estradiol/norgestrel. The primary goal is to manage her hypothyroidism and anemia effectively (Pearce, 2022). 

Joe is a 48-year-old male diagnosed with Type II Diabetes Mellitus a year ago. He has controlled his blood glucose through dietary changes. He has hypertension and is currently on Lisinopril 20 mg PO daily. He has no known allergies. His lab work includes these results: fasting BG is 225 mg/dL; HbA1C = 7.5%. The Basic Metabolic Profile (BMP) is normal except for a Cr of 2.0 and eGFR of 28. What treatment plan would you implement for Joe?

 Joe’s Diabetes and Hypertension Management 

  • Develop Treatment Plan: Introduce Metformin 500 mg BID for blood glucose control.
  • Consider insulin therapy if kidney function declines.
  • Monitor Joe’s blood glucose levels and kidney function regularly.
  • Adjust medication based on lab results and clinical symptoms.
  • Educate Joe on the importance of medication adherence, diet, and monitoring blood glucose.
  • Discuss lifestyle changes to manage both diabetes and hypertension effectively.
Example

Joe, a 48-year-old male with Type II Diabetes Mellitus and hypertension, presents with a fasting blood glucose of 225 mg/dL, HgA1C of 7.5%, and normal BMP except for a creatinine level of 2.0 and eGFR of 28. Given his elevated blood glucose and compromised kidney function, Metformin alone is insufficient (Pan et al., 2020). Introduce a GLP-1 receptor agonist, such as liraglutide, which can improve glycemic control without worsening renal function. Start liraglutide at 0.6 mg daily, titrating up based on response and tolerance. 

Jose is a 55-year-old truck driver being evaluated for his commercial driver’s license. He has a known history of diabetes mellitus type II. Current medications include Metformin 1000 mg BID, Glipizide 20 mg PO daily. Diltiazem 120 mg po BID. He is allergic to sulfa. Lab results show a fasting blood glucose of 325 mg/dL, HbA1C = 10.6%. Basic metabolic Profile is normal. What treatment plan would you implement for Jose?

Jose’s Diabetes Management for Commercial Driver’s License

  • Add insulin therapy to manage Jose’s elevated blood glucose levels.
  • Start with a basal insulin like Lantus, titrating the dose based on blood glucose readings.
  • Regularly monitor Jose’s blood glucose levels and adjust insulin dosage accordingly.
  • Ensure comprehensive monitoring to meet the requirements for his commercial driver’s license.
  • Teach Jose about the proper administration of insulin, signs of hypo- and hyperglycemia, and the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.
  • Emphasize the necessity of frequent blood glucose checks.
Example

Jose, a 55-year-old truck driver with Type II Diabetes Mellitus, presents with poorly controlled diabetes, indicated by a fasting blood glucose of 325 mg/dL and HbA1C of 10.6%. Current medications include Metformin 1000 mg BID, Glipizide 20 mg daily, and Diltiazem 120 mg BID. Given his elevated blood glucose levels and the need for better control to maintain his commercial driver’s license, introduce insulin therapy. Start with a basal insulin, such as Lantus (insulin glargine), at 10 units nightly, adjusting based on blood glucose readings.

Jenny is a 63-year-old woman with complaints of heartburn 4 to 5 times a week over the past 3 months. Her symptoms are worse at night after going to bed. Her heartburn is worse, and she coughs a lot at night. She has tried OTC Prevacid 24 hours once daily for the past 2 weeks. This has helped the symptoms somewhat, but she is still bothered by them.

Jenny’s GERD Management 

  •  Increase Prevacid (lansoprazole) to 30 mg twice daily for better symptom control.
  • Consider adding a nighttime H2 blocker like ranitidine.
  • Schedule follow-up visits to monitor symptom improvement and potential side effects.
  • Adjust treatment based on response and any adverse reactions.
  • Advise Jenny to elevate the head of her bed, avoid eating late at night, and avoid foods that trigger her symptoms.
  • Discuss the importance of adherence to her medication regimen and lifestyle changes to manage GERD effectively.
Example

Jenny, a 63-year-old woman, presents with frequent heartburn and nighttime symptoms consistent with GERD. Current medications include Diltiazem CD 120 mg daily, Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg daily, Metformin 500 mg BID, Aspirin 81 mg daily, and Fluticasone/salmeterol DPI. She has tried OTC Prevacid (lansoprazole) 24 hour once daily for 2 weeks with partial relief. To improve her symptom control, increase Prevacid to 30 mg twice daily.

 Closing 

In this assignment for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 7: Musculoskeletal System: Case Studies, you will enhance your understanding of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics by evaluating drug treatment plans for various patient scenarios. By following these Owlisdom guidelines, you can effectively address each patient’s needs, prescribe appropriate medications, and ensure thorough monitoring of treatment plans. This practice will help solidify your clinical decision-making skills and improve patient outcomes in managing musculoskeletal disorders. In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology Week 8: Psychological Disorders.

References

Pan, Q., Lu, X., Zhao, C., Liao, S., Chen, X., Guo, F., Yang, C., & Liu, H. (2020). Metformin: The updated protective property in kidney disease. Aging (Albany NY), 12(9), 8742. 

Pearce, E. N. (2022). Management of hypothyroidism and hypothyroxinemia during pregnancy. Endocrine Practice, 28(7), 711–718.

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 8: Psychological Disorders

Instructions for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 8

WEEK 8: QUIZ

This Quiz will test your knowledge of the resources presented each week. These quizzes will help prepare you for the final exam later in the course. 

To prepare:

  • View all of the Required Learning Resources.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 8

Complete the Quiz by Day 7 of Week 8.

Step-By-Step Guide NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 8: Psychological Disorders

Introduction to NURS-6521 WEEK 8: Psychological Disorders

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 8: Psychological Disorders. This week focuses on testing your knowledge of psychological disorders using the resources presented throughout the course. The quiz will help prepare you for the final exam by reinforcing key concepts and applications. This Owlisdom guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to effectively use the provided learning resources to complete the quiz.

Note: Practice Quiz is also provided in this how-to guide and solution. These are just practice quiz to test your knowledge as you prepare for the quiz.

Preparatory Tips For The Quiz

  • Ensure you read and understand all assigned resources. Focus on key concepts related to psychological disorders and their pharmacological management.
  • Take notes on important points, drug mechanisms, and clinical applications discussed in the resources.
  • Allocate specific times to review each resource. Break down the study sessions into manageable chunks to enhance retention.
  • Access the weekly resources link provided in your course materials to find the necessary content.
  • Bookmark the page for easy access during your study sessions.
  • Go through each resource thoroughly, focusing on drug interactions, side effects, contraindications, and clinical guidelines related to psychological disorders.
  • Use the search function to quickly locate specific information within the resources.
  • Begin working on the quiz well before the deadline to avoid last-minute stress.
  • Allocate time each day to answer a few questions, ensuring thorough research and understanding.
  • Provide complete and accurate answers, supported by information from the weekly resources and your learning materials.
  • Double-check your answers for accuracy and completeness.
  • Before submitting, review all answers to ensure they are correct and well-supported by your research.

SAMPLE QUIZ AND ANSWERS

This practice quiz is designed to test your knowledge of the Psychological Disorder as covered in NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 8: Psychological Disorders.

(Note: The correct answers are underlined) 

Quiz Questions

  1. Which of the following medications is commonly prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
  • A. Lithium
  • B. Sertraline
  • C. Clozapine
  • D. Haloperidol
  1. What is the primary mechanism of action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)?
  • A. Inhibition of dopamine reuptake
  • B. Inhibition of serotonin reuptake
  • C. Blockade of NMDA receptors
  • D. Agonism of GABA receptors
  1. Which medication is considered a first-line treatment for bipolar disorder?
  • A. Fluoxetine
  • B. Carbamazepine
  • C. Lithium
  • D. Olanzapine
  1. Which of the following side effects is commonly associated with atypical antipsychotics?
  • A. Hypertension
  • B. Weight gain
  • C. Diarrhea
  • D. Hyperthyroidism
  1. Which medication is commonly used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?
  • A. Risperidone
  • B. Sertraline
  • C. Clonazepam
  • D. Aripiprazole

Closing 

In this Quiz for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 8: Psychological Disorders, you will enhance your understanding of psychological disorders by utilizing the weekly resources to complete a quiz. This process will prepare you for your final exam. By following these NURS-6521 guidelines, you can effectively navigate the provided resources, utilize the required learning materials, and ensure thorough and accurate completion of your quiz. This practice will help solidify your knowledge and improve your clinical decision-making skills in managing psychological disorders. Through this comprehensive review, you will be better equipped to apply pharmacological principles in real-world clinical settings, ultimately improving patient outcomes. In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology W9: Women’s and Men’s Health Assignment: Case Studies.

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W9: Women’s and Men’s Health Assignment: Case Studies

Instructions of NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W9

Week 9 Case Studies

Charisma Kathryn Caldwell

1 Section Advanced Pharmacology-Spring 2024

No unread replies.

Directions: For each of the scenarios below, answer the questions below using clinical
Practice guideline where applicable. Explain the problem and explain how you would
address the problem. If prescribing a new drug, write out a complete medication order
just as you would if you were completing a prescription. Use at least 3 sources for each
scenario and cite sources using APA format.


  1. Jamie is a 38-year-old homeless bipolar patient that is diagnosed with an acute
    psychotic episode. He tells you that he has been on lithium for years and was
    Recently started on amitriptyline (Elavil) 25mg po TID by someone at a free clinic.
    What treatment plan would you develop to Jamie? Would you discontinue any
    medications? What medications would you add?

  2. A 68-year-old woman has a history of rheumatoid arthritis and has been taking
    Nabumetone (Relafen) 1000 mg po qd for 2 years. Other pertinent past medical
    history includes: occasional incontinence, Crohn’s disease with frequent
    exacerbations, and well-controlled diabetes type 2. Recently, her arthritis pain
    has been much worse and she is requesting additional medication for her
    Rheumatoid arthritis. What would be an appropriate additional therapy for this
    patient? What monitoring would be appropriate to monitor this medication? What
    Would monitoring be appropriate to monitor this medication?
  3. Sheila is a 26-year-old with a history of head injury and tonic-clonic seizures. She
    is seen today with complaints of “funny” eye movements, feeling uncoordinated,
    blurred vision and feeling lethargic. Her current medications include Ritalin 10
    mg po BID, Dilantin 300 mg po BID, Paxil 20 mg po daily, Lasix 20 po daily ,Lab
    Values from today: Dilantin level of 11, Albumin 2 WBC 9.9 Plt 177 Na 141 K 4.2
    Hg 13.2. What do you think is causing the patient’s symptoms? What lab values
    and calculated the corrected medication level to support your diagnosis? What is your
    treatment plan for this patient?

  4. Xavi is a 44-year-old man with complaints of low back pain following a motor
    vehicle accident. The accident occurred 7 days ago. He rates his pain 8 out of
    10. He was prescribed Lortab 5 / 325 in the ER last week. He is requesting a refill
    of the Lortab today and indicates it just barely makes him comfortable. What
    What treatment plan would you implement for Xavi? What medications would you
    prescribe and how would you monitor them? What education would you provide?
    Regarding his treatment plan?

ASSIGNMENT: CASE STUDIES

Case studies are a useful way for you to apply your knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic aspects of pharmacology to specific patient cases and health histories.

For this Assignment, you evaluate drug treatment plans for patients with various disorders and justify drug therapy plans based on patient history and diagnosis.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

To Prepare:

  • Review the case study posted in “Announcements” by your Instructor for this Assignment
  • Review the information provided and answer the questions posed in the case study
  • When recommending a medication, write out a complete prescription for the medication
  • Whenever possible, use clinical practice guidelines in developing your answers when possible
  • Include at least three references to support your answer and cite them in APA format.

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 9

Submit the Assignment.

SUBMISSION INFORMATION

Before submitting your final assignment, you can check your draft for authenticity. To check your draft, access the Turnitin Drafts from the Start Here area. 

  1. To submit your completed assignment, save your Assignment as WK9Assgn_LastName_Firstinitial
  2. Then, click on Start Assignment near the top of the page.

Next, click on Upload File and select Submit Assignment for review.

Introduction to NURS-6521 Week1: ASSIGNMENT: Case Studies

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W9: Women’s and Men’s Health Assignment: Case Studies. This assignment focuses on applying your knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to specific patient cases related to women’s and men’s health, and ear, eye, and skin disorders. Through these case studies, you will evaluate and justify drug treatment plans based on patient history and diagnosis. This NURS-6521 guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you complete each scenario.

Jamie is a 38-year-old homeless bipolar patient diagnosed with an acute psychotic episode. He has been on lithium for years and was recently started on amitriptyline (Elavil) 25 mg PO TID by someone at a free clinic. What treatment plan would you develop for Jamie? 

 Jamie’s Acute Psychotic Episode Management 

  • Maintain lithium for mood stabilization.
  • Discontinue amitriptyline due to its potential to exacerbate psychosis and its interactions with lithium.
  • Consider adding an antipsychotic, such as risperidone 1 mg BID, to manage the acute psychotic episode.
  • Monitor serum lithium levels regularly to avoid toxicity.
  • Discuss the importance of medication adherence, potential side effects, and the need for regular follow-up appointments.
Example

 Jamie, a 38-year-old homeless bipolar patient, is experiencing an acute psychotic episode and is currently on lithium. Recently, he was started on amitriptyline (Elavil) 25 mg PO TID. The combination of lithium and amitriptyline can increase the risk of lithium toxicity and exacerbate psychotic symptoms. Therefore, the first step is to discontinue amitriptyline due to its potential for causing adverse interactions and worsening Jamie’s condition.

A 68-year-old woman with a history of rheumatoid arthritis and other comorbidities is requesting additional medication for worsening arthritis pain. What additional therapy would you implement? How would you monitor the new medication? 

68-Year-Old Woman’s Rheumatoid Arthritis Management

  • Consider adding a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) such as methotrexate 7.5 mg once weekly.
  • Assess for contraindications and drug interactions with her current medications.
  • Regularly monitor liver function tests and complete blood counts.
  • Schedule follow-up visits every 3 months to assess efficacy and side effects.
  • Inform the patient about the potential side effects of methotrexate and the importance of regular monitoring.
Example

A 68-year-old woman with a history of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and comorbid conditions, including Crohn’s disease and well-controlled type 2 diabetes, is experiencing increased arthritis pain despite being on nabumetone 1000 mg PO daily. Given her worsening symptoms, adding a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) is appropriate. Methotrexate, starting at 7.5 mg once weekly, is a suitable option for RA management.

Sheila, a 26-year-old with a history of head injury and tonic-clonic seizures, presents with symptoms suggestive of medication side effects. What is causing her symptoms? What lab values support your diagnosis? What is your treatment plan? 

 Sheila’s Seizure Management 

  • Suspect Dilantin toxicity given her symptoms and low albumin level.
  • Calculate the corrected Dilantin level considering her albumin.
  • Dilantin level of 11 and albumin of 2 suggest a higher effective level due to low protein binding.
  • Corrected Dilantin level = measured level / (0.2 × albumin + 0.1).
  • Reduce Dilantin dose to avoid toxicity and re-evaluate after a week.
  •  Monitor Dilantin levels and symptoms closely.
Example

Sheila, a 26-year-old with a history of head injury and tonic-clonic seizures, presents with symptoms suggestive of Dilantin (phenytoin) toxicity, including “funny” eye movements, uncoordinated feeling, blurred vision, and lethargy. Her current medications include Ritalin 10 mg BID, Dilantin 300 mg BID, Paxil 20 mg daily, and Lasix 20 mg daily. Her lab results show a Dilantin level of 11 and albumin of 2, indicating a need to calculate the corrected Dilantin level.

Xavi, a 44-year-old man, presents with severe low back pain following a motor vehicle accident. He requests a refill of Lortab 5/325. What treatment plan would you implement? What medications would you prescribe and how would you monitor them?

Xavi’s Low Back Pain Management 

  • Address pain management with a combination approach.
  • Continue Lortab 5/325 as needed but consider adding non-opioid pain management options.
  • Prescribe ibuprofen 400 mg TID as an anti-inflammatory.
  • Consider a muscle relaxant such as cyclobenzaprine 10 mg TID if muscle spasms are present.
  • Schedule follow-up visits to reassess pain levels and medication effectiveness.
  • Educate Xavi on the risks of opioid dependence and encourage non-pharmacological pain management strategies such as physical therapy.
Example

Xavi, a 44-year-old man with severe low back pain following a motor vehicle accident, rates his pain as 8 out of 10. He was prescribed Lortab 5/325 in the ER last week and requests a refill. Given the acute nature of his pain and the high pain rating, it is appropriate to continue opioid analgesics while also incorporating non-opioid pain management strategies.

Continue Lortab 5/325 every 6 hours as needed for pain but add ibuprofen 400 mg TID to address inflammation. 

 Closing 

In this NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology W9: Women’s and Men’s Health Assignment: Case Studies, you will enhance your understanding of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics by evaluating drug treatment plans for various patient scenarios. By following these Owlisdom guidelines, you can effectively address each patient’s needs, prescribe appropriate medications, and ensure thorough monitoring of treatment plans. This practice will help solidify your clinical decision-making skills and improve patient outcomes in managing women’s and men’s health, and ear, eye, and skin disorders.  In the next module of NURS-6521, we will discuss Advanced Pharmacology Week 10: Infection.

NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 10: Infection

Instructions for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 10

This Quiz will test your knowledge on the resources presented each week. These quizzes will help prepare you for the final exam later in the course. 

To prepare:

  • View all of the Required Learning Resources.

RESOURCES

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

BY DAY 7 OF WEEK 10

Complete the Quiz by Day 7 of Week 10.

Introduction to NURS-6521 WEEK 10: Infection

Welcome to NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology. This assignment focuses on testing your knowledge of the resources presented throughout the course. The quiz will help prepare you for the final exam by reinforcing key concepts and applications. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to use the provided learning resources to complete the quiz effectively.

Note: A practice quiz is also provided on how to Owlisdom guide and find a solution. These are just practice quizzes to test your knowledge as you prepare for the quiz.

Preparatory Tips For The Quiz

  • View all of the Required Learning Resources.
  • Ensure you read and understand all assigned resources. Focus on key concepts related to the topics covered throughout the course.
  • Take notes on important points, drug mechanisms, and clinical applications discussed in the resources.
  • Allocate specific times to review each resource. Break down the study sessions into manageable chunks to enhance retention.
  • Access the weekly resources link provided in your course materials to find the necessary content.
  • Bookmark the page for easy access during your study sessions.
  • Go through each resource thoroughly, focusing on drug interactions, side effects, contraindications, and clinical guidelines.
  • Use the search function to locate specific information within the resources quickly.
  • Before submitting, review all answers to ensure they are correct and well-supported by your research.
  • Use a checklist to confirm you have answered all questions and cited your sources appropriately.

SAMPLE QUIZ AND ANSWERS

This practice quiz is designed to test your knowledge of the infection as covered in NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 10: Infection.

(Note: The correct answers are underlined)

Quiz Questions

  1. Which medication is primarily used for the management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women?
  • A. Alendronate
  • B. Metformin
  • C. Lisinopril
  • D. Atenolol
  1. What is the mechanism of action of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)?
  • A. Blocking histamine H2 receptors
  • B. Inhibiting the enzyme H+/K+ ATPase in the stomach lining
  • C. Neutralizing stomach acid
  • D. Stimulating bicarbonate production
  1. Which drug is commonly prescribed for the treatment of acute gout attacks?
  • A. Allopurinol
  • B. Colchicine
  • C. Hydrochlorothiazide
  • D. Warfarin
  1. Which medication is an example of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression?
  • A. Amitriptyline
  • B. Fluoxetine
  • C. Diazepam
  • D. Metoprolol
  1. What is the primary therapeutic use of beta-blockers?
  • A. Treating hypertension and arrhythmias
  • B. Managing diabetes mellitus
  • C. Treating bacterial infections
  • D. Relieving constipation

Closing 

In this Quiz for NURS-6521 Advanced Pharmacology Week 10: Infection, you will enhance your understanding of infectious diseases by utilizing the weekly resources to complete a quiz. This process will prepare you for your final exam. By following these guidelines, you can effectively navigate the provided resources, utilize the required learning materials, and ensure thorough and accurate quiz completion. This practice will help solidify your knowledge and improve your clinical decision-making skills in managing infectious diseases. This comprehensive review will better equip you to apply pharmacological principles in real-world clinical settings, ultimately improving patient outcomes.  You can also read the NURS-6521 complete modules to ace the course!

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