Pharmacology and General Medical Care Principles — Glossary
The study of drugs, their sources, chemical properties, biological effects, and therapeutic uses. It encompasses how medications interact with living systems. Substances used for medical treatment, particularly drugs prescribed to treat chronic or acute conditions. EMTs may administer or assist with their use. The defined set of procedures, actions, and processes that a healthcare professional, such as an EMT, is legally permitted to perform. It dictates the limits of their medical interventions. The specific conditions, diseases, or symptoms for which a particular medication is approved and effective. EMTs must understand these to administer drugs appropriately. The specific biochemical or physiological process through which a drug produces its therapeutic or adverse effects in the body. Understanding this is vital for safe and effective drug administration. Any unintended and often undesirable effects of a medication that occur in addition to its primary therapeutic action. EMTs must be aware of these to monitor patients.
Used in courses
Careers that use Pharmacology and General Medical Care Principles — Glossary
- How to Become a CNA — Certified Nursing Assistant Career Path — Learn how to become a CNA in 4-8 weeks. Explore training requirements, certification, salary expectations, and career advancement opportunities.
- How to Become a CPR and First Aid Instructor — Life-Saving Training Career Path — Become a certified CPR and first aid instructor. AHA, Red Cross, and NSC instructor training paths with flexible part-time and contract work.
- How to Become an Emergency Medical Dispatcher — 911 EMD Career Path — Become a 911 emergency medical dispatcher (EMD). Certification through IAED or APCO, call-taker training, and dispatch career path without a 4-year degree.
- How to Become an EMT or Paramedic — Emergency Medical Services Career Path — Become an EMT in 3-6 months or paramedic in 1-2 years. National Registry certification, ambulance experience, and clear career ladder.