What This Document Is
This document is a study guide designed to help students prepare for Examination Two in Pharmacology and Alterations in Physiological Functioning I (NURS 20025) at Kent State University. It outlines key concepts related to cardiac pharmacology and blood pressure regulation, focusing on the mechanisms of action, side effects, and nursing considerations for relevant medications.
Why This Document Matters
This study guide is essential for nursing students enrolled in the specified pharmacology course. It serves as a focused review of the material that will be assessed on the exam, helping students identify areas where they need further study. It’s most valuable when used *in conjunction with* course lectures, textbooks, and other learning resources. Successful understanding of these concepts is foundational for safe and effective medication administration in clinical practice.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This study guide is a *review* tool, not a comprehensive textbook. It highlights key information but does not provide in-depth explanations of underlying physiological principles. It will not replace the need for active learning, critical thinking, and a thorough understanding of the course material. It also does not include practice questions or detailed case studies.
What This Document Provides
This study guide includes:
* A review of key cardiac concepts: dromotrope, chronotrope, inotrope, preload, afterload, contractility, and the cardiac cycle.
* An overview of electrical conduction across the heart and normal ECG/EKG waves and intervals.
* A focused review of antihypertensive medications, including ACE-I’s, ARB’s, CCB’s, Beta Blockers, vasodilators, and loop diuretics – covering their mechanisms of action, primary side effects, prototypes, and nursing actions.
* Information on the causes and initial treatment of hypotension, with a focus on nursing responsibilities.
* A detailed explanation of the factors responsible for blood pressure regulation, including the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS).
* Hypertension goals based on age and comorbidities (DM, CKD).
* Information on racial differences in response to antihypertensive medications.
This preview does *not* include detailed drug tables, practice questions, or comprehensive explanations of complex physiological processes. It is a roadmap to the full study guide’s contents.