NUIP 2430

I was very nervous about pharmacology because everyone says it is a very hard class, but I do not want anyone to be scared! Kastello really knows her stuff. You do not need to do the textbook readings, I never read the textbook and finished with a 97. There is a TON of content so definitely spend a lot of time studying before exams. All the content on exams is from the lectures. The TAs hold review sessions before exams which are extremely helpful. The first half of the semester is all about basic principles of pharmacology, like how drugs move throughout the body. The second half of the semester is more content heavy because you learn about antibiotics, antivirals, diuretics, diabetes drugs, asthma and COPD drugs, electrolytes and IV fluids, and opioids/non-opioids. Outside of studying the only work is reading quizzes, but they are open book/resource which is why I did not do the reading. There are a few case studies towards the end of the semester which are helpful in further understanding the content. Overall, this class is 100% doable if you pay attention in lecture and study ahead of time.

Ugh love Kastello! I just love when her lectures because it is super straightforward and she gives all the information for the exams. In addition to that, she also points out things that one needs to look out for as a nurse so Kastello really ties in what the clinical application for this. Start READING THE TEXTBOOK EARLY ON! The book is long but if you do the assigned readings and pay attention to the lecture, it's really not that bad.
Exams definitely get a little tricky so make sure you know your drugs really thoroughly.
Overall, the lecture is not dry whatsoever; it's a tough class but Kastello makes it one of my favorites

Obviously this class is required so no getting out of it but it really isn't that bad. Kastello is a pretty good teacher and does a good job explaining and giving you the information that you need to know. Even though she might seem unapproachable, she actually does care about how you are doing and I would recommend meeting one-on-one with her if you are struggling. The wording of her quiz and test questions can be really tricky and she doesn't like to give questions back to you. If you keep up with the reading and class notes you should be fine. MEMORIZE THE DRUGS EARLY ON.