MED 272 Drug Therapy

Lecture: 3 Lab: 0 Clinic: 0 Credits: 3

This course focuses on major drug groups, including their side effects, interactions, methods of administration, and proper documentation. Emphasis is placed on the theory of drug administration. Upon completion, students should be able to identify, spell, recognize side effects of, and document the most commonly used medications in a physician’s office.

Pre-requisite(s): Admission to the Medical Assisting Program and MED 140.
Course is typically offered in Fall.
Course has transfer restrictions - 2 years

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
At the completion of the course, the students should be able to do the following:

Classify major drug groups, encompassing their pharmacological properties, therapeutic uses, and common medications within each group.
Describe the side effects and potential drug interactions associated with major drug groups, and include their impact on patient safety and treatment outcomes.
Apply the principles of proper drug administration, including routes of administration, dosage calculations, and safe medication handling techniques, ensuring accurate and appropriate medication administration in a variety of clinical settings.
Record medication administration details accurately, including drug name, dosage, route, time, and patient response, adhering to legal and ethical standards.
Evaluate the common side effects and adverse reactions associated with commonly used medications.
Compile information about major drug groups, including their side effects, interactions, methods of administration, and documentation requirements, to create a comprehensive drug profile or reference log for quick and accurate medication information in a physician’s office.
Investigate the global perspective of drug use and administration, encompassing the study of culturally diverse approaches to medication therapy, alternative medicine practices, and the impact of global pharmaceutical trends on drug availability, affordability, and patient access to medication.