NURS 762

NURS 762
Advanced Psychopharmacology for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners

1. Catalog Entry

NURS 762
Advanced Psychopharmacology for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners

Credit hours (3)
Prerequisites: Graduate Standing in Nursing, Admission into the PMHNP Certificate Program or DNP.

This course equips PMHNPs with an in-depth understanding of advanced psychopharmacology, covering the complexities of psychiatric medication management and evidence-based prescribing practices for diverse patient populations.

 

2. Detailed Description of Course

This comprehensive course focuses on advanced psychopharmacology, providing Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex medication management in mental health care. Topics include psychotropic medications, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, treatment-resistant conditions, polypharmacy, side effect management, and the integration of research into evidence-based prescribing practices. Practical case studies, patient scenarios, and hands-on exercises are integrated to enhance psychopharmacological competencies in diverse patient populations.

Topical Outline:

• Introduction to Advanced Psychopharmacology
• Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics
• Advanced Psychopharmacology for Mood Disorders
• Advanced Psychopharmacology for Anxiety Disorders
• Psychopharmacological Approaches to Psychotic Disorders
• Medication Management of Substance Use Disorders
• Pharmacology for Special Populations
• Polypharmacy and Complex Cases
• Side Effect Management
• Integration of Research in Psychopharmacology
• Ethical and Legal Aspects of Medication Management
• Advanced Prescribing Practices

 

3. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The course employs a blend of in-depth lectures, practical case studies, interactive discussions, and patient simulation exercises. Students will explore the latest research in psychopharmacology, engage in critical analysis of complex cases, and develop skills for evidence-based prescribing in psychiatric practice.

Teaching Strategies:

• Lectures and presentations
• Complex case studies and patient simulations
• Group discussions and peer interactions
• Medication management exercises and prescribing simulations
• Assigned readings and research assignments

 

4. Goals and Objectives of the Course

Upon completing the course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of advanced psychopharmacology principles.
2. Analyze pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics in psychiatric medication management.
3. Apply advanced psychopharmacological approaches to mental health disorders including mood, anxiety, psychotic disorders, substance abuse disorders, complex cases, and others.
4. Apply evidence-based prescribing practices.
5. Address side effects and complications in psychopharmacological treatment.
6. Navigate ethical and legal considerations in medication management.
7. Integrate use of telehealth

 

5. Assessment Measures

Evaluation methods to assess the accomplishment of course objectives may include:

• Written examinations on advanced psychopharmacology concepts.
• Analysis of complex case studies and patient simulations.
• Active participation in medication management exercises and group discussions.
• Research assignments related to evidence-based prescribing practices.

 

6. Other Course Information

Students are encouraged to stay up to date with the latest developments in psychopharmacology and medication management.

This course is a pivotal element of the PMHNP program, equipping future PMHNPs with the skills necessary for evidence-based prescribing and effective psychiatric medication management across diverse patient populations.

 

Review and Approval

May 11, 2015
March 22, 2021

May 14, 2024