Date of learning: 05/02/25

Title of the learning activity: principles of pharmacology

In the lecture. I learned about the core principles of pharmacology which is the science that studies the composition, effects and the use of drugs. It includes pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Now I understand the difference between the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics process. Pharmacokinetics refers how the body absorb, distribute, metabolise, and excrete drug (ADME), whereas pharmacodynamics focusses on how drugs affect the body at the cellular and system level, including mechanisms of action and therapeutic effect.

I also learned the main routes of medication administration such as enteral, parenteral and tropical routes.  The enteral, the medication is absorbed via the gastrointestinal tract or portal circulation and has slower onset of action — affected by food, GI function, and patient’s ability to swallow. Parenteral, Involves administering medication directly into the body via needles and it has fastest onset of action. Tropical, medication is applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes. And slow absorption.

In addition, I also learned how different factors can affect the effectiveness and of the drugs metabolism and safety of medication such as the age, weight, liver, kidney function, and genetic differences as well as lifestyle factors.

As prospective nursing associate, I will be responsible for administering medications, monitoring side effect, and patient education, therefore it is crucial that I have a deep understand of principles of pharmacology in order to deliver safe and effective patient centred care.

I also learned the importance of personalised care, for instance, elderly patients may require lower doses due to decreased liver or kidney function. Patients with liver disease may not metabolise drugs effectively, which could increase the risk of drug accumulation and toxicity. These considerations must guide my clinical decision-making.

I aim to use this knowledge during my clinical practice by performing patient assessment thoroughly such as checking for allergies, age-related risks, organ function, and current medications before administering medications as well as educating patients how to take their medications safely and effectively. I also intend to deepen my understanding of principles pharmacology, especially drug classifications, common side effects, and nursing considerations for each medication.