VETS 255 - Pharmacology and Animal Disease

Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 3
Laboratory Hours: 0

Prerequisite(s): VETS 115, VETS 131, VETS 132, VETS 160, VETS 171, VETS 180, CHEM 120, or CHEM 180, BIOL 230

Restriction(s): None

Corequisite(s): None

This course will address pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs as well as cover pharmaceuticals commonly used in veterinary medicine. The student will have an understanding of the various classes of drugs used in veterinary medicine, when they are used, common side effects, contraindications, calculation of drug doses, and administration. Common small animal medically treated diseases will be covered with emphasis on nursing care.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Course:

The student will be able to recognize groups of drugs, their mechanisms, and clinically relevant side effects
The student will be able to accurately perform appropriate calculations; use weights and measures correctly
The student, when given a drug order, will be able to properly prepare medications for dispensing, including performing accurate calculations
The student will be able to relay drug information to clients (e.g., handling, storage, administration, side-effects, drug interactions, safety, reasons for use of drug)
The student will understand key nutritional factors in selected disease conditions and be familiar with therapeutic foods for these conditions.
The student will be able to identify and understand substances that, when ingested, result in toxicities.
The student will be able to determine and maintain fluid infusion rates.
The student will be able to monitor hydration status.
The student will be able to maintain and care for IV catheters.
The student will have an understanding of wounds, wound management, and abscess care.
The student will understand therapeutic bathing and dipping of small animals.
The student will be able to provide nursing care for newborns and orphan animals.
The student will able to perform basic nursing care for selected conditions and diseases.
The student will be able to properly instruct clients on home nursing care of the patient.