Covers essential medication knowledge and administration protocols for personal support workers.
Course overview
PHAR 1280 Pharmacology for Support Workers introduces the essential medication knowledge required for personal support workers. You will learn how to safely identify, handle, and document medications in a variety of care settings. The course focuses on practical protocols, ensuring you can support clients effectively while maintaining the highest standards of safety and privacy.
Topics include common drug classifications, basic pharmacokinetics, and the legal and ethical responsibilities surrounding medication assistance. You will practice documentation procedures and learn to recognize and report adverse reactions. This course prepares you to work collaboratively with nurses and pharmacists under supervision.
Who takes this course
This course is taken by students in the Personal Support Worker program.
Credits: 1.5 · Hours: 45
Prerequisites
None
Learning outcomes
- Identify common drug classes and their therapeutic uses in long-term care and home support settings.
- Explain the pharmacokinetic principles of medication absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
- Demonstrate correct procedures for medication storage, documentation, and safe handling.
- Recognize and report signs of adverse drug reactions and potential interactions.
- Apply infection control protocols when preparing or assisting with medication administration.
Evaluation
| Component | Weight (%) |
| Mid-term written examination | 30 |
| Practical simulation assessment | 30 |
| Case study analysis | 20 |
| Final written examination | 20 |