MCCCD Official Course Competencies:

NUR290AD  19956-20032

Pharmacology and Aging

1.

Describe changes in the aging process affecting drug reactions and interactions. (I)

2.

Identify patterns of drug use among the elderly. (II)

3.

Identify drugs commonly used among the elderly and describe their risks. (III)

4.

Describe special problems of older persons related to drugs. (IV)

5.

Formulate interventions for helping older persons achieve safe medication-taking behavior. (V)

MCCCD Official Course Outline:

NUR290AD  19956-20032

Pharmacology and Aging

I. Pharmacokinetics and the Aging Process

A. Absorption

B. Distribution

C. Metabolism

D. Detoxification

E. Excretion

F. Drug reactions and interaction in general

II. Patterns of Drug Use Among the Elderly

A. Polypharmacy

B. Misuse and abuse of drugs

C. Noncompliance

III. Review of Selected Drugs Frequently Used by the Elderly

A. Analgesics

B. Antacids

C. Antianginals

D. Antibiotics

E. Anticoagulants

F. Anticonvulsants

G. Antidiabetics

H. Antihypertensives

I. Antiinflammatory drugs

J. Digitalis preparations

K. Diuretics

L. Laxatives

M. Antidepressants

N. Antianxiety agents

O. Sedatives and hypnotics

P. Cognitive-acting drugs

IV. Special Problems of Medication-Taking Among Older Persons

A. Alcohol abuse

B. Nicotine and caffeine

C. Controlled substances

D. Attitudes of professionals

E. Effects of drugs

1. On nutrition

2. On safety

3. On sleep

4. On sexuality

V. Interventions for Helping Older Persons Achieve Safe Medication-Taking Behavior

A. Importance of assessment of drug use

B. Methods of assessment

1. Drug histories

2. Drug therapy evaluations

C. Guidelines for geriatric dosing

D. Guidelines for patient education

E. Special interventions in cases of drug misuse