Introduction to Clinical Pharmacology

The new edition of this practical text combines a clear and concise format with cutting edge content on introductory pharmacology. Using a consistent, readable format, this resource groups drugs by therapeutic class within body systems chapters to help make comparisons of related medications. Specific drug information is listed in drug reference tables with 100 new drugs added to the fourth edition. Each chapter begins with objectives, key terms, and a chapter overview, and ends with a chapter summary and critical thinking questions that directly apply chapter content to clinical practice. Drugs are grouped by therapeutic class within body systems chapters to help make comparisons of related medications. The consistent format for each drug class features headings for Action and Uses, Adverse Reactions, and Drug Interactions. Nursing implications are included in a nursing process framework with subheadings for Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation, and Patient and Family Teaching. Step-by-step Procedure boxes are provided with clear instructions and illustrations for various routes of drug administration. A comprehensive unit on Mathematics and Calculations is included to enable readers to review math skills needed for medication administration. Critical Thinking Questions at the end of each chapter help apply drug information to clinical practice. Drug Reference tables have been updated and provide a clear and consistent reference to individual drug dosage information. A list of Online Resources has been added to the end of each chapter in Unit III for further study and research. The glossary of key terms and page references emphasize and define essential terminology. A separate Disorders Index references disorders for quick access in integrated programs. New icons are used throughout to highlight Clinical Landmines (alerts), Clinical Goldmines (knowledge), Memory Joggers (key points), and Nuggets of Clinical Wisdom (critical thinking). More than 180 illustrations - revised to reflect cultural diversity - explain how drugs work in the body and depict procedures for medication administration. New content has been added on women's health issues, genetics, spirituality, religion, and the latest interactions (including herb/drug) to keep you up-to-date on the most current topics. Case Studies include 12 real-world situations related to various disorders to promote critical thinking skills and the application of content in the clinical setting. 200 new drugs have been added to drug reference tables throughout and include generic name, trade name, and dosage. Expanded content includes drug absorption, adverse drug reactions in children, updated considerations in the geriatric patient, and alcohol, drug, and food/drug interactions. The top 200 Drugs most often prescribed in the U.S. are now included in the front matter along with drug category and page reference.