, Complete Table of Contents
SECTION I: Introduction to Sociocultural Aspects, Law, and Ethics
Chapter 1: Sociocultural Aspects
– Medicine advertising and media influences
– Over-the-counter (OTC) preparations
– Generic vs proprietary medicines
– Medicine use in older individuals
– Cultural and linguistic differences
– Indigenous perspectives on medicine therapy
Chapter 2: Health Professionals and the Law
– Legislative controls on medicines
– Australian and New Zealand medicine controls
– Common law: unclear, telephone, standing orders
– Emergency situations and nurse practitioners
– Midwifery and remote area care
Chapter 3: Ethical Issues in Health Care
– Six principles: veracity, autonomy, non-maleficence, etc.
– Ethical situations in pharmacology
– Professional responsibilities
SECTION II: Medicine Administration and Professional Responsibilities
Chapter 4: Formulations, Storage, Routes
– Formulations and stability
– Routes of administration
– First-pass effect
Chapter 5: Clinical Decision-Making
– Clinical assessment
– Medicine selection
– Patient factors
Chapter 6: Administration and Documentation
– Administration techniques
– Documentation standards
– Responsibilities
Chapter 7: Medication Errors
– Types and causes
– Prevention strategies
– Reporting and management
,SECTION III: General Aspects of Pharmacology
Chapter 8: Drug Nomenclature
– Generic, brand, chemical names
– Classification systems
Chapter 9: Pharmacokinetics
– ADME process
– Bioavailability and half-life
Chapter 10: Pharmacodynamics
– Drug-receptor interactions
– Dose-response, agonists
Chapter 11: Pharmacogenetics
– Genetic factors
– Pharmacogenomic testing
Chapter 12: Drug Interactions
– Pharmacokinetic & dynamic
– Drug-food interactions
Chapter 13: Pharmacokinetic Modifiers
– Age, disease, environment
Chapter 14: Pediatric & Geriatric Pharmacology
– Developmental and dosing issues
SECTION IV: Toxicology
Chapter 15: Poisoning & Envenomation
Chapter 16: Acute Overdose
Chapter 17: Substances of Abuse
Chapter 18: Medicine Safety
SECTION V: Autonomic Pharmacology
Chapter 19: Neuropharmacology Overview
Chapter 20: Adrenergic Pharmacology
Chapter 21: Cholinergic Pharmacology
SECTION VI: Neuropharmacology
Chapter 22: Antipsychotic Agents
Chapter 23: Anxiolytics & Hypnotics
Chapter 24: Antidepressants & Mood Stabilisers
Chapter 25: Neurodegenerative Disorders
Chapter 26: Antiseizure Agents & Muscle Relaxants
Chapter 27: CNS Stimulants
,SECTION VII: Pain and Anaesthesia
Chapter 28: Analgesics
Chapter 29: Migraine & Headaches
Chapter 30: General Anaesthesia
Chapter 31: Local Anaesthesia
SECTION VIII: Inflammation, Immunity and Cancer
Chapter 32: Anti-inflammatory Agents
Chapter 33: Antigout Medicines
Chapter 34: Antihistamines
Chapter 35: Immunomodulators
Chapter 36: Cancer Chemotherapy
SECTION IX: Cardiovascular and Respiratory Pharmacology
Chapter 37: Dyslipidaemia
Chapter 38: Antihypertensives
Chapter 39: Antianginals
Chapter 40: Anticoagulants and Thrombolytics
Chapter 41: Diuretics & Renal Drugs
Chapter 42: Heart Failure
Chapter 43: Antidysrhythmics
Chapter 44: Fluid & Electrolyte Imbalance
Chapter 45: Anti-anaemic Agents
Chapter 46: Respiratory Medicines (Asthma, COPD)
SECTION X: Modulation of Gastrointestinal Function
Chapter 47: Cold & Allergy Medicines
Chapter 48: Gastrointestinal Drugs
Chapter 49: Antiemetics
Chapter 50: Nutrition (Enteral/Parenteral)
SECTION XI: Endocrine and Metabolic Pharmacology
Chapter 51: Pituitary Conditions
Chapter 52: Thyroid Conditions
Chapter 53: Diabetes Management
Chapter 54: Adrenal Disorders
Chapter 55: Gonadal Hormones
Chapter 56: Bone Disorders
Chapter 57: Obesity Management
,SECTION XII: Antimicrobial Pharmacology
Chapter 58: Intro to Antimicrobials
Chapter 59: Antibacterial Agents
Chapter 60: TB and Leprosy Agents
Chapter 61: Antiseptics & Disinfectants
Chapter 62: Antiparasitic Agents
Chapter 63: Antivirals
Chapter 64: Antifungals
SECTION XIII: Special Topics in Pharmacology
Chapter 65: Skin Conditions
Chapter 66: Ophthalmic Medicines
Chapter 67: Herbal Medicines
,Chapter 1
A 55-year-old patient mentions seeing a television advert
claiming that a new arthritis cream “cures joint pain
overnight.” What is the most appropriate sociocultural
consideration for a nurse when discussing this
advertisement?
Correct answer: Recognize that direct-to-consumer
advertising may overstate benefits and understate risks,
influencing patient expectations.
Rationale: Television campaigns often emphasize positive
outcomes and minimize adverse effects; understanding
this helps the nurse guide the patient toward evidence-
based information and realistic expectations.
When counselling an elderly patient buying an
over‑the‑counter cold remedy, which sociocultural factor
is most important to assess?
Correct answer: Patient’s literacy level and understanding
of dosage instructions.
Rationale: Low health literacy can lead to misuse of OTC
products; assessing comprehension ensures safe, effective
self‑medication.
,A patient requests a brand-name blood pressure tablet but
the pharmacist offers a generic equivalent. What is the
primary rationale for the pharmacist’s suggestion in a
sociocultural context?
Correct answer: Generics are bioequivalent and more
cost‑effective, improving accessibility for diverse
socioeconomic groups.
Rationale: Lower-cost generics reduce financial barriers,
supporting adherence among patients from varying
economic backgrounds.
An 80-year-old retired teacher takes multiple prescription
and OTC medications. Which cultural consideration is
crucial in her care?
Correct answer: Her perception of polypharmacy risks may
be influenced by previous healthcare experiences and
beliefs about aging.
Rationale: Older adults often have ingrained beliefs on
medication necessity; exploring their views helps prevent
harmful interactions and promotes safe use.
A nurse encounters a recently arrived immigrant speaking
limited English who needs pain management. What is the
most appropriate initial step?
,Correct answer: Arrange for a qualified medical interpreter
to facilitate communication.
Rationale: Cultural and linguistic competence requires
accurate translation to ensure informed consent and safe
medication use.
In remote Indigenous communities, what traditional factor
should a nurse acknowledge when introducing a new
antibiotic regimen?
Correct answer: Community beliefs regarding natural
remedies and healing ceremonies alongside Western
medicines.
Rationale: Respecting Indigenous healing practices fosters
trust and collaboration, enhancing adherence to
prescribed therapy.
A pharmaceutical company’s social media campaign uses
influencers to promote a weight‑loss supplement. What
sociocultural risk does this pose?
Correct answer: Vulnerable populations may perceive
influencer endorsements as unbiased medical advice.
Rationale: Influencer marketing can blur lines between
entertainment and healthcare information, risking
misinformation among followers.
,Why is it important to discuss the differences between
generic and proprietary antiepileptic drugs with patients
from low‑income backgrounds?
Correct answer: To ensure they understand that generics
offer the same efficacy at reduced cost, supporting
adherence.
Rationale: Economic constraints disproportionately affect
medication compliance; clear information can alleviate
concerns about generic quality.
An older adult reports using multiple OTC sleep aids
nightly. What sociocultural factor underlies this behavior?
Correct answer: Social isolation and under‑addressed
mental health needs may drive self‑medication for sleep.
Rationale: Recognizing the link between loneliness,
depression, and OTC sedative use allows holistic care
planning.
When prescribing a generic statin to a bilingual patient,
what should the nurse verify?
Correct answer: That patient education materials are
available in the patient’s preferred language.
, Rationale: Providing information in the patient’s primary
language ensures comprehension of dosing and side
effects.
A media advertisement for an herbal supplement claims
“ancient Indigenous wisdom.” What is an ethical
sociocultural concern?
Correct answer: Potential cultural appropriation and
misrepresentation of Indigenous knowledge.
Rationale: Misusing Indigenous heritage in marketing can
perpetuate stereotypes and disrespect traditional
practices.
During a community health fair, volunteers distribute OTC
analgesics without dosage counselling. Which risk is most
pertinent?
Correct answer: Increased incidence of unintentional
overdose, especially among older attendees.
Rationale: Older adults have altered pharmacokinetics;
lack of guidance heightens risk of toxicity from common
OTC drugs.
SECTION I: Introduction to Sociocultural Aspects, Law, and Ethics
Chapter 1: Sociocultural Aspects
– Medicine advertising and media influences
– Over-the-counter (OTC) preparations
– Generic vs proprietary medicines
– Medicine use in older individuals
– Cultural and linguistic differences
– Indigenous perspectives on medicine therapy
Chapter 2: Health Professionals and the Law
– Legislative controls on medicines
– Australian and New Zealand medicine controls
– Common law: unclear, telephone, standing orders
– Emergency situations and nurse practitioners
– Midwifery and remote area care
Chapter 3: Ethical Issues in Health Care
– Six principles: veracity, autonomy, non-maleficence, etc.
– Ethical situations in pharmacology
– Professional responsibilities
SECTION II: Medicine Administration and Professional Responsibilities
Chapter 4: Formulations, Storage, Routes
– Formulations and stability
– Routes of administration
– First-pass effect
Chapter 5: Clinical Decision-Making
– Clinical assessment
– Medicine selection
– Patient factors
Chapter 6: Administration and Documentation
– Administration techniques
– Documentation standards
– Responsibilities
Chapter 7: Medication Errors
– Types and causes
– Prevention strategies
– Reporting and management
,SECTION III: General Aspects of Pharmacology
Chapter 8: Drug Nomenclature
– Generic, brand, chemical names
– Classification systems
Chapter 9: Pharmacokinetics
– ADME process
– Bioavailability and half-life
Chapter 10: Pharmacodynamics
– Drug-receptor interactions
– Dose-response, agonists
Chapter 11: Pharmacogenetics
– Genetic factors
– Pharmacogenomic testing
Chapter 12: Drug Interactions
– Pharmacokinetic & dynamic
– Drug-food interactions
Chapter 13: Pharmacokinetic Modifiers
– Age, disease, environment
Chapter 14: Pediatric & Geriatric Pharmacology
– Developmental and dosing issues
SECTION IV: Toxicology
Chapter 15: Poisoning & Envenomation
Chapter 16: Acute Overdose
Chapter 17: Substances of Abuse
Chapter 18: Medicine Safety
SECTION V: Autonomic Pharmacology
Chapter 19: Neuropharmacology Overview
Chapter 20: Adrenergic Pharmacology
Chapter 21: Cholinergic Pharmacology
SECTION VI: Neuropharmacology
Chapter 22: Antipsychotic Agents
Chapter 23: Anxiolytics & Hypnotics
Chapter 24: Antidepressants & Mood Stabilisers
Chapter 25: Neurodegenerative Disorders
Chapter 26: Antiseizure Agents & Muscle Relaxants
Chapter 27: CNS Stimulants
,SECTION VII: Pain and Anaesthesia
Chapter 28: Analgesics
Chapter 29: Migraine & Headaches
Chapter 30: General Anaesthesia
Chapter 31: Local Anaesthesia
SECTION VIII: Inflammation, Immunity and Cancer
Chapter 32: Anti-inflammatory Agents
Chapter 33: Antigout Medicines
Chapter 34: Antihistamines
Chapter 35: Immunomodulators
Chapter 36: Cancer Chemotherapy
SECTION IX: Cardiovascular and Respiratory Pharmacology
Chapter 37: Dyslipidaemia
Chapter 38: Antihypertensives
Chapter 39: Antianginals
Chapter 40: Anticoagulants and Thrombolytics
Chapter 41: Diuretics & Renal Drugs
Chapter 42: Heart Failure
Chapter 43: Antidysrhythmics
Chapter 44: Fluid & Electrolyte Imbalance
Chapter 45: Anti-anaemic Agents
Chapter 46: Respiratory Medicines (Asthma, COPD)
SECTION X: Modulation of Gastrointestinal Function
Chapter 47: Cold & Allergy Medicines
Chapter 48: Gastrointestinal Drugs
Chapter 49: Antiemetics
Chapter 50: Nutrition (Enteral/Parenteral)
SECTION XI: Endocrine and Metabolic Pharmacology
Chapter 51: Pituitary Conditions
Chapter 52: Thyroid Conditions
Chapter 53: Diabetes Management
Chapter 54: Adrenal Disorders
Chapter 55: Gonadal Hormones
Chapter 56: Bone Disorders
Chapter 57: Obesity Management
,SECTION XII: Antimicrobial Pharmacology
Chapter 58: Intro to Antimicrobials
Chapter 59: Antibacterial Agents
Chapter 60: TB and Leprosy Agents
Chapter 61: Antiseptics & Disinfectants
Chapter 62: Antiparasitic Agents
Chapter 63: Antivirals
Chapter 64: Antifungals
SECTION XIII: Special Topics in Pharmacology
Chapter 65: Skin Conditions
Chapter 66: Ophthalmic Medicines
Chapter 67: Herbal Medicines
,Chapter 1
A 55-year-old patient mentions seeing a television advert
claiming that a new arthritis cream “cures joint pain
overnight.” What is the most appropriate sociocultural
consideration for a nurse when discussing this
advertisement?
Correct answer: Recognize that direct-to-consumer
advertising may overstate benefits and understate risks,
influencing patient expectations.
Rationale: Television campaigns often emphasize positive
outcomes and minimize adverse effects; understanding
this helps the nurse guide the patient toward evidence-
based information and realistic expectations.
When counselling an elderly patient buying an
over‑the‑counter cold remedy, which sociocultural factor
is most important to assess?
Correct answer: Patient’s literacy level and understanding
of dosage instructions.
Rationale: Low health literacy can lead to misuse of OTC
products; assessing comprehension ensures safe, effective
self‑medication.
,A patient requests a brand-name blood pressure tablet but
the pharmacist offers a generic equivalent. What is the
primary rationale for the pharmacist’s suggestion in a
sociocultural context?
Correct answer: Generics are bioequivalent and more
cost‑effective, improving accessibility for diverse
socioeconomic groups.
Rationale: Lower-cost generics reduce financial barriers,
supporting adherence among patients from varying
economic backgrounds.
An 80-year-old retired teacher takes multiple prescription
and OTC medications. Which cultural consideration is
crucial in her care?
Correct answer: Her perception of polypharmacy risks may
be influenced by previous healthcare experiences and
beliefs about aging.
Rationale: Older adults often have ingrained beliefs on
medication necessity; exploring their views helps prevent
harmful interactions and promotes safe use.
A nurse encounters a recently arrived immigrant speaking
limited English who needs pain management. What is the
most appropriate initial step?
,Correct answer: Arrange for a qualified medical interpreter
to facilitate communication.
Rationale: Cultural and linguistic competence requires
accurate translation to ensure informed consent and safe
medication use.
In remote Indigenous communities, what traditional factor
should a nurse acknowledge when introducing a new
antibiotic regimen?
Correct answer: Community beliefs regarding natural
remedies and healing ceremonies alongside Western
medicines.
Rationale: Respecting Indigenous healing practices fosters
trust and collaboration, enhancing adherence to
prescribed therapy.
A pharmaceutical company’s social media campaign uses
influencers to promote a weight‑loss supplement. What
sociocultural risk does this pose?
Correct answer: Vulnerable populations may perceive
influencer endorsements as unbiased medical advice.
Rationale: Influencer marketing can blur lines between
entertainment and healthcare information, risking
misinformation among followers.
,Why is it important to discuss the differences between
generic and proprietary antiepileptic drugs with patients
from low‑income backgrounds?
Correct answer: To ensure they understand that generics
offer the same efficacy at reduced cost, supporting
adherence.
Rationale: Economic constraints disproportionately affect
medication compliance; clear information can alleviate
concerns about generic quality.
An older adult reports using multiple OTC sleep aids
nightly. What sociocultural factor underlies this behavior?
Correct answer: Social isolation and under‑addressed
mental health needs may drive self‑medication for sleep.
Rationale: Recognizing the link between loneliness,
depression, and OTC sedative use allows holistic care
planning.
When prescribing a generic statin to a bilingual patient,
what should the nurse verify?
Correct answer: That patient education materials are
available in the patient’s preferred language.
, Rationale: Providing information in the patient’s primary
language ensures comprehension of dosing and side
effects.
A media advertisement for an herbal supplement claims
“ancient Indigenous wisdom.” What is an ethical
sociocultural concern?
Correct answer: Potential cultural appropriation and
misrepresentation of Indigenous knowledge.
Rationale: Misusing Indigenous heritage in marketing can
perpetuate stereotypes and disrespect traditional
practices.
During a community health fair, volunteers distribute OTC
analgesics without dosage counselling. Which risk is most
pertinent?
Correct answer: Increased incidence of unintentional
overdose, especially among older attendees.
Rationale: Older adults have altered pharmacokinetics;
lack of guidance heightens risk of toxicity from common
OTC drugs.
