Skills Gained

On completion of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Describe the pathophysiology of acute pain
2. Describe the use of the visual analogue and verbal rating pain scales to assess level of pain
3. Describe the basic pharmacology of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines
4. Describe the basic pharmacokinetics of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines
5. List the adverse effects and drug interactions associated with opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines
6. Discuss the issues of tolerance, dependence and addiction with opioids and benzodiazepines
7. Assess and identify whether or not opioids and benzodiazepines may be suitable for the medical needs of the person
8. Select and administer appropriate opioids when necessary for labour in hospital and for postpartum
9. Monitor client for efficacy and toxicity of opioids or benzodiazepines including how to manage an overdose
10. Explain the effects of opioids and benzodiazepines when taken during pregnancy and lactation
11. Describe the effect these agents have on labour, as well as, on the fetus and neonate
12. Outline the basic principles of prescribing and steps for rational prescribing
13. Write a legal prescription with all of the required elements in a professional format
14. Demonstrate adherence to ethical and legal standards of prescriptive practice