What This Document Is
These are lecture notes from NURS 382, Pharmacology and Therapeutics for Nursing Practice, at California State University, San Bernardino, covering acid-base principles, substance abuse, and related pharmacological interventions. The notes represent a condensed record of classroom lectures by Mark Klemik.
Why This Document Matters
This study guide is valuable for nursing students preparing for coursework and exams related to critical care, medical-surgical nursing, and emergency medicine. Understanding acid-base balance and the complexities of substance use disorders is fundamental to safe and effective patient care. These notes offer a focused review of key concepts frequently encountered in clinical practice. They are particularly useful for quickly recalling important distinctions and clinical correlations.
Common Limitations or Challenges
These notes are a *supplement* to, not a replacement for, textbook readings, full lectures, and clinical experience. The notes are in a condensed format and may require further elaboration for a complete understanding. They represent one instructor’s emphasis and approach to the material. This preview does not include all nuances and details presented in the complete set of notes.
What This Document Provides
The full document includes:
* Key distinctions between respiratory and metabolic acid-base imbalances.
* Mnemonic devices for remembering causes and symptoms.
* Guidance on interpreting ventilator alarms (high and low pressure).
* An overview of the psychological aspects of substance abuse, including denial, codependency, and manipulation.
* Information on specific medications used in addiction treatment (Antabuse, ReVia) and associated patient teaching.
* Signs and symptoms of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
* Categorization of commonly abused drugs as “uppers” or “downers” with associated physiological effects.
This preview offers a glimpse into the organization and key topics covered, but does not include detailed explanations, clinical case studies, or practice questions.