2 credits
Fall 2025 LectureThis course introduces students to the principles and practices of self-care and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Students will learn to assess and recommend appropriate self-care treatments for common conditions, considering patient-specific factors. The course covers nonprescription medications, including their pharmacology, indications, contraindications, and proper use. It also teaches techniques for evaluating patient symptoms and determining when self-care is appropriate versus when to refer to a healthcare provider. Additionally, students will explore strategies for educating patients on lifestyle modifications and preventive measures to maintain health and well-being. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to confidently guide patients in self-care practices and make informed recommendations for OTC therapies.
Learning Outcomes1Identify common self-care conditions and describe both non-therapeutic and therapeutic treatment options for non-prescription management of self-care conditions.
2Apply therapeutic knowledge to patient care. By the end of this course, students will be able to effectively apply the Pharmacist Patient Care Process (PPCP) to gather and assess patient information, identify patient-specific factors, and make informed decisions regarding self-care and non-prescription therapies.
3Demonstrate advanced communication and drug information skills.