NURS 723 is a graduate-level course that provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders across the lifespan using evidence-based psychopharmacological principles. Students will learn about the classification and diagnosis of psychiatric disorders, the neurobiology of psychiatric disorders, and the mechanisms of action of psychotropic medications. They will also learn about the evidence-based use of medications in the treatment of specific psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents, adults, and older adults.
The course will also cover the principles of psychopharmacologic monitoring and management, as well as ethical considerations in the use of psychotropic medications.
Course Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Classify and diagnose psychiatric disorders across the lifespan using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
- Understand the neurobiological basis of psychiatric disorders.
- Apply evidence-based principles to the use of medications in the treatment of specific psychiatric disorders across the lifespan.
- Conduct comprehensive psychopharmacological assessments.
- Monitor and manage psychotropic medications safely and effectively.
- Identify and manage medication-related adverse effects.
- Apply ethical principles to the use of psychotropic medications.
Prerequisites:
NURS 723 is open to graduate students in the School of Nursing who have completed the following prerequisites:
- NURS 604: Advanced Pathophysiology
- NURS 606: Advanced Pharmacology
- NURS 612: Advanced Health Assessment
- NURS 715: Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice
Who Should Take This Course?
NURS 723 is a good choice for students who are interested in pursuing a career in psychiatric-mental health advanced practice nursing, such as psychiatric nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric-mental health. The course is also a good choice for students who want to learn more about the principles of psychiatric diagnosis and psychopharmacology and how to apply them to patient care.
How to Enroll
To enroll in NURS 723, students must complete the following steps:
- Submit an application to the UNC School of Nursing Graduate Program.
- Meet with the Graduate Program Director to discuss their academic and professional goals.
- Complete the required prerequisites.
- Register for the course through the UNC Student Information System.
