NURS 9864 Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics for Nurse Anesthesia Practice

This course is an integrated study of chemistry, biochemistry, and physics underpinning nurse anesthesia practice. The chemical structure of compounds and chemical reactions are examined as they apply to pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anesthetic agents. Concepts of solubility, diffusion, and osmosis are described as well as the role of acid-base balance in maintaining the body's internal milieu. Metabolic pathways responsible for energy production are examined. Gas laws and other laws of physics as they pertain to nurse anesthesia practice are illustrated with specific examples. The emphasis is placed on integration of scientific theory into practice.