Module Details

Module Code: DRUG C2101
Module Title: Drug Actions and Uses
Title: Drug Actions and Uses
Module Level:: 6
Credits:: 10
Module Coordinator: Paula Rankin
Module Author:: Fiona Leonard
Domains:  
Module Description: On completion of this module the student will have a knowledge of the pathophysiology of common diseases and how pharmacological interventions assist in their treatment. Students will have the skills and competencies needed to dispense drugs safely under the supervision of a pharmacist.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Describe the pathology of common medical conditions and risk factors which contribute to them.
LO2 Outline drugs prescribed in the management of common medical conditions, relate the mechanism of action of drugs to the pathology of the particular condition, explain the rationale behind drug combinations.
LO3 Assess drugs therapy [prescribed for common medical conditions] with regard to appropriateness of drug dosage, drug regimens, treatment durations, common cautions, side-effects and drug-drug interactions.
LO4 Outline evidence-based strategies and advice for patients, to facilitate self-management of common medical conditions, as appropriate for a pharmacy technician.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Additional Requisite Information
No Co Requisites listed
 
Indicative Content
The integumentary system
Pathology and treatment of common skin disorders including eczema, psoriasis, acne.
The respiratory system
Pathology and treatment of common respiratory conditions including asthma, chronic pulmonary disease (COPD) and allergic rhinitis.
Musculoskeletal system
Pathology and treatment of common conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis and gout.
Endocrine/ reproductive system
Pathology and treatment of diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Women's health including hormonal contraception and management of the menopause. Corticosteroids - indications and cautions.
Psychiatric disorders and treatment
Overview of the management of common psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, psychotic disorders, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders.
Miscellaneous
Management of anaemia, liver disease, kidney disease, transplant patients. Overview of commonly prescribed chemotherapeutic agents.
Practicals
The objective of the practical classes is to reinforce the material covered in lectures, to allow students to apply what they are learning and develop a skill set which is needed in practice. Practical classes also allow discussion of any course related queries as they arise. Students will become familiar with the BNF and other reference texts which are used in practice. Students will develop a range of skills including how to check dosages, side effects and drug interactions for prescribed drugs. This will be done by working through a range of mock-up prescriptions and case studies. The mock-up prescriptions will cover drugs being studied in lectures. Students will also learn; 1. The importance of accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of the work of a pharmacy technician, 2. Problem solving skills.
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment30.00%
Practical30.00%
End of Module Formal Examination40.00%

Assessments

Full Time

Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Other % of Total Mark 30
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Weekly / two-weekly Blackboard quizzes,
Mid-semester written assessment [similar to end of term assessment, but shorter duration].
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 30
Timing Sem 1 End Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Case study and prescription analysis.
Dispensing practice.
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 40
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
3 hour exam
Reassessment Requirement
Exam Board
It is at the discretion of the Examination Board as to what the qualifying criteria are.

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Category Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Lecture Every Week 3.00 3
Laboratory Contact Practical Every Week 1.00 1
Estimated Learner Hours Non Contact Independent learning 15 Weeks per Stage 13.47 202
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • British Medical Association, Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. British National Formulary, Latest Edition, Medical Publications, (Ireland) Ltd.
  • Walker, R and Whittlesea, C. (2011), Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 4th.
  • Brenner, GM. (2012), Pharmacology, Saunders.
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
Discussion Note: