Unit 1496: Paramedic Pharmacology Principles and Practice

1. Introduction to Pharmacology

1.1 Overview of Pharmacology

• Definition and scope
• Importance in prehospital care

1.2 Drug Classifications

• Therapeutic classes
• Pharmacological classes
• Examples relevant to paramedics

1.3 Routes of Administration

• Oral, sublingual, inhalation
• Intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous
• Intraosseous and others

1.4 Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption
• Distribution
• Metabolism
• Excretion

1.5 Pharmacodynamics

• Drug-receptor interactions
• Dose-response relationships
• Therapeutic index and safety margins

2. Medication Administration in Prehospital Settings

2.1 Techniques for Medication Administration

• Preparation and verification of medications
• Dosage calculations and measurement
• Proper administration techniques per route

2.2 Considerations for Safe Administration

• Patient assessment
• Monitoring for efficacy and adverse reactions
• Documentation and communication

2.3 Managing Adverse Reactions

• Recognition of side effects and allergic reactions
• Emergency interventions

3. Common Medications in Prehospital Care

3.1 Overview and Categorization

• Emergency medications
• Maintenance and supportive medications

3.2 Detailed Review of Common Drugs

• Indications
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Dosages and administration guidelines

4. Pharmacology of Pain Management

4.1 Opioid Analgesics

• Types (e.g., morphine, fentanyl)
• Mechanism of action
• Dosage and monitoring
• Risks and side effects

4.2 Non-Opioid Analgesics

• NSAIDs, acetaminophen
• Mechanisms and uses

4.3 Adjuvant Medications

• Muscle relaxants, anticonvulsants
• Role in multimodal pain management

5. Pharmacology of Respiratory Medications

5.1 Bronchodilators

• Beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol)
• Anticholinergics

5.2 Corticosteroids

• Indications and effects

5.3 Oxygen Therapy

• Indications and delivery methods
• Monitoring oxygenation

6. Pharmacology of Cardiovascular Medications

6.1 Antiarrhythmics

• Classes and examples
• Indications and administration

6.2 Antihypertensives

• Role in emergency care

6.3 Thrombolytics

• Mechanism and indications
• Contraindications and risks

6.4 Vasopressors

• Types (e.g., epinephrine, norepinephrine)
• Usage guidelines

7. Pharmacology of Anaphylaxis and Allergic Reactions

7.1 Epinephrine

• Mechanism of action
• Dosage and administration

7.2 Antihistamines

• Role in allergic reactions

7.3 Corticosteroids

• Use and timing

7.4 Rapid Intervention and Monitoring

• Recognizing anaphylaxis
• Post-administration care

8. Special Considerations in Geriatric Pharmacology

8.1 Age-Related Changes in Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics

8.2 Risks of Polypharmacy

8.3 Increased Susceptibility to Adverse Drug Reactions

8.4 Adjusting Dosages and Monitoring in Elderly Patients

9. Legal and Ethical Considerations in Paramedic Pharmacology

9.1 Protocols and Scope of Practice

9.2 Documentation Requirements

9.3 Informed Consent

9.4 Reporting Medication Errors

9.5 Ethical Decision-Making in Medication Administration