Fundamentals of Pharmacology

Clear, Practice-Focused Pharmacology for Safe, Person-Centred Care

Safe medication practice depends on sound pharmacological knowledge applied to real clinical situations. Now in its Second Edition, Fundamentals of Pharmacology: For Nursing and Healthcare Students provides a structured approach to pharmacology and pharmacokinetics, focusing on the medicines students encounter most frequently in practice. It aligns with current NMC Standards and Proficiencies for Registered Nurses and Nursing Associates.

This updated edition expands coverage to 20 chapters, adding dedicated content on palliative and end-of-life care alongside genetics and biologic therapies. Every chapter has been revised to reflect contemporary evidence-based guidelines and current clinical best practices. Full-colour illustrations, practical examples, learning outcomes, and multiple-choice questions support clinical reasoning development throughout.

Readers will also find:

• Detailed coverage of medicines administration processes and the ability to recognise and respond to the effects of medicines
• Accessible, student-friendly presentation designed to develop competence and confidence when applying pharmacological principles in clinical settings
• Engaging educational features including tables, figures, and worked examples that reinforce comprehension of complex pharmacological concepts
• Emphasis on person-centred care and working in partnership with those receiving treatment throughout each chapter

Written for pre-registration adult nursing students across all three years of study, this text also serves post-registration nurses undertaking nurse prescribing or non-medical prescribing modules. It equips readers to deliver safe, competent, and compassionate medication-related care.