Spring 2026 Course Syllabus
Course: VNSG-1231 (Section: 1, CRN: 10125)
Pharmacology 		LSCPA Logo Image
Instructor Information
Instructor Christina Chargois
Email barkercl@lamarpa.edu
Phone (409) 984-6360
Office Allied Health - Room: 115
Office Hours As Posted and By Appointment
Additional Contact Information
Course Information
Description Fundamentals of medications and their diagnostic, therapeutic, and curative effects. Includes nursing interventions utilizing the nursing process.
Required Textbooks Textbook Purchasing Statement: A student attending Lamar State College Port Arthur is not under any obligation to purchase a textbook from the college-affiliated bookstore. The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.

Textbook Purchasing Statement: A student attending Lamar State College Port Arthur is not under any obligation to purchase a textbook from the college-affiliated bookstore. The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.

Textbook Purchasing Statement: A student attending Lamar State College Port Arthur is not under any obligation to purchase a textbook from the college-affiliated bookstore. The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.


Ford, Susan M. (2022) Roach’s Introductory Clinical Pharmacology w/ access (12th ed.) Lippincott: ISBN: 9781975163730 

Ford, Susan M. (2022) Roach’s Introductory Clinical Pharmacology (12th ed.) Study Guide Lippincott: ISBN: 9781975163761 

 

Zerwech, JoAnn (2021) Mosby’s Pharmacology Memory Notecards: Visual, Pneumonic and Memory Aids for Nurses (6th ed.) Elsevier ISBN: 9780323661911 

 

 Ford, Susan M. (2022) Roach’s Introductory Clinical Pharmacology w/ access (12th ed.) EBOOK Lippincott: ISBN: 9781975163754 

Note: These books are part of the Barnes and Noble First Day Course Material 

 

 

Lippincott Coursepoint Learning Resource ISBN: 9781975186883 

 Your Course ID is: 1ULFMKWRLJMD 

Seahawk Book Bundle: https://www2.lamarpa.edu/lscpa/sbb.html  
Additional Materials/Resources None
Corequisites/Prerequisites BIO 2301/2101 & BIO 2302/2102 Human Anatomy and Physiology 

NURA 1301 Nurse Aide for Health Care Organizations I    

NURA 1160 Clinical  

To graduate from the VN program it is required that you must complete either, Business Computer Information Systems (BCIS 1305), or Introduction to Computers (ITSC 1401) prior to graduation.  

Students must have a minimum grade of “C” or better in every course that applies to the Vocational Nursing Program Certificate plan to graduate.  
Learning Outcomes

In accordance with the mission of LSC-PA, VNSG 1231 Pharmacology assists the student to develop the particular skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for success as a vocational nurse.  Upon successful completion of the course, the student should be able to: ​​  

1.   Identify properties, effects, and principles of pharmacotherapeutic agents; and list      common nursing interventions associated with the various pharmacotherapeutic agents. (PSLO 3) 

​​2. Explain the roles and responsibilities of the nurse in administering pharmacological agents. (PSLO 1)​  

​​3. Identify contraindicated medications or treatments. (PSLO 2; PSLO 3​ 

​​4.  Describe therapeutic and nontherapeutic reactions to medications. (PSLO 2; PSLO 3)​ 

​​5. Withhold medications to minimize potential complications (e.g., adverse reactions, toxicity, electrolyte imbalances, etc.).(PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3)​ 

​​6.    Relate therapeutic blood levels to effectiveness of treatment. (PSLO 1; PSLO 2)​ 

​​7.    Assist in evaluating extent to which drug therapy meets patient’s needs. (PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3; PSLO 4)​ 

​​8.    Assist in evaluation and control of side effects of medications. (PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3; PSLO 4)​  

​​9.    Collect data related to the patient’s need for medications prescribed PRN (PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3) 

​10.  Monitor for interactions between drugs, food, and fluids administered to the patient. (PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3) 

​11. Review appropriate use of non-prescription/OTC medications. (PSLO Alpha; PSLO 1; PSLO 2; PSLO 3) 
Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Vocational Nursing Program graduates will, under the supervision of a professional licensed nurse and/or licensed physician, function in non-complex settings and should be able to:  

PSLO 1. Function within the scope of practice for a Vocational Nurse.  

PSLO 2. Demonstrates safe, direct patient care with individuals who have predictable healthcare needs.  

PSLO 3. Exhibits professional nursing behaviors.  

PSLO 4. Cooperates with members of the interdisciplinary healthcare team to provide evidence-based care.  
Lecture Topics Outline

Week 1: ​Orientation, Syllabus, Course Point Access and Resource Overview​ ​- Nursing Foundation of Clinical Pharmacology​ 

Week 2: ​Course Point  Assignments-​ Drugs for Infection ​​ 

Week 3: ​​Course Point Assignments ​-Drugs for Pain Management​​​ 

Week 4: ​EXAM 1​ 

Week 5: Course Point Assignments-​ Drugs for CNS​ 

Week 6: ​Course Point Assignments- Drugs for ​CNS/ Start PNS and NMS 

Week 7: Course Point Assignments- Finish Drugs for PNS and NMS 

Week 8: SPRING BREAK 

Week 9: EXAM 2 

Week 10: Course Point  Assignments-Drugs for Respiratory. Group Project Due. 

Week 11: ​Course Point Assignments- Drugs for Cardiovascular​ 

Week 12: Course Point Assignments – Finish Drugs for Cardiovascular 

Week 13:​ EXAM 3​ 

Week 14: Course Point Quiz Assignments-Drugs for Gastrointestinal 

Week 15: Drugs for Endocrine 

Week 16: Final Exam 
Major Assignments Schedule

Date:  02/11/2026      Exam I                                               Time: 12:30 

Date:  03/18/2026      Exam II                                              Time: 12:30 

Date:  04/15/2026     Exam III                                             Time: 12:30 

Date:  05/14/2026     Final Exam                                         Time: 08:30 

Date: 03/29/2026      Pharmacology Group Project            Time: 11:30PM 
Final Exam Date May 14, 2026 - 8:30 AM   Through  May 14, 2026 - 12:30 PM
Grading Scale

90-100 = A        80-89 = B        75-79 = C        60-74 = D      Below 60 = F 
Determination of
Final Grade

(5) Quizzes Average                                                                      Grade 5% 

Pharmacology Flashcard Average                                               Grade 9% 

Course Point Assignment Average                                              Grade 10%  

Group Project                                                                                  Grade 11% 

Exam I                                                                                              Grade 15% 

Exam II                                                                                             Grade 15% 

Exam III                                                                                            Grade 15% 

Final Exam                                                                                       Grade 20% 

Final Course                                                                                    Grade = 100 %  

 

Example grade determinations:  

Quizzes Average                                                                                                      85 × 0.05 = 4.25% 

Pharmacology Flashcard Average                                                                       90 × 0.09 = 8.10% 

Course Point Assignment Average                                                                      88 × 0.10 = 8.80% 

Group Project                                                                                                           92 × 0.11 = 10.12% 

EXAM I                                                                                                                       72 × 0.15 = 10.80% 

EXAM II                                                                                                                      80 × 0.15 = 12.00% 

EXAM III                                                                                                                     84 × 0.15 = 12.60% 

FINAL EXAM                                                                                                             80 × 0.20 = 16.00% 


Course Average: 82.67% = B (Final Grade) 
Course Policies
Instructor Policies

Students and faculty of the Lamar State College-Port Arthur Vocational Nursing Program are expected to assist in maintaining a classroom environment that is conducive to learning. To assure that faculty have the opportunity to teach and students have the opportunity to benefit from time spent in class, unless otherwise approved by the instructor, students are prohibited from engaging in distracting classroom behavior: 

  • I understand that promptness is expected. I will be on time for all classes on campus or virtually and return from breaks promptly.  

  • I understand that I am expected to come to theory and lab experiences prepared and present myself as a sincere, adult learner. Pre-course assignments may be required for admission into class.  

  • I am expected to attend all online course sessions that occur during scheduled course times. These sessions will be scheduled in advance and may have activities during the live session that result in a grade. 

  • I will return phone calls and/or text messages only during scheduled breaks.  

  • I will keep cell phones on vibrate in classroom and off and out of reach during testing and test reviews.  In the event of an emergency, your family should contact you through AH Secretary, VN Coordinator, or Department Chair. 

  • I agree that on-campus computers will only be used for classroom work.  

  • I agree that all information shared by other students and instructors will remain confidential.  

  • I will not repeat or discuss what is shared with anyone.  

  • I agree that I will not engage in ‘side-bar’ discussions.  

  • I agree that I will direct my comments to faculty in charge of the classroom, clinical or lab time. 

  • I agree to actively participate in all discussions, activities, and exercises.  

  • I agree to be open to new ideas and experiences.  

  • I agree to take risks and step outside of my comfort zone.  

  • I agree to maintain a positive attitude.  

  • I agree to give supportive feedback and make corrections without belittling anyone.  

  • I agree to suspend judgment and be responsible for my actions.  

  • I agree to be responsible for learning as much as I can from this experience.  

  • I agree to ask for what I need from my instructors.  

  • I agree to get better acquainted with my fellow students so we can all identify ways to support one another, work together as a team and develop professionally.  

  • I agree to follow the guidelines and policies in the LSC-PA Vocational Nursing Student Handbook. 

  

The following behaviors may result in the student being asked to cease the action, and/or leave the classroom session: 

  • inappropriate and/or disruptive use of cell phones or other electronic devices in classroom 

  • talking or sleeping while the instructor is giving instructions or during class discussions/presentations 

  • displaying a rude or negative attitude/behavior to the instructor or other students; disruptive behaviors in the classroom, skills/simulation lab, computer lab, testing environment, or clinical setting 

  • Counseling for repetitive tardiness. 

 

If any of these behaviors result in the student being asked to leave the classroom or lab environment and the student will receive a counseling note. 

 

Students attending classroom, lab, or clinical sessions virtually should exhibit appropriate netiquette to include at a minimum: 

 
Adhere to the same standards of behavior online that you follow in real life; 
Respect faculty and peers time by being on time to scheduled exams, sessions and activities; and Present yourself in a professional manner. 

 

Should I be unable to maintain these expectations or stated program requirements, dismissal from the program may occur. 
Attendance Policy

Pharmacology VNSG 1231 may consist of online & in class lectures, labs, and assignments.  Schedules may be changed at the discretion of the Faculty and Vocational Nursing Coordinator. Research has shown a cause-and-effect relationship between attendance and college success.  All attendance policies are in effect regardless of whether conducted online or in the classroom setting. Policies for this course are described below:  

 

  1. Because poor attendance is a leading reason for termination from a job in all areas of employment, attendance at all scheduled online class sessions is expected. 

 

  1. A student who is absent from course activities for more than three (3) days without  notification to faculty may be dropped from the program by the Program Director. 

 

  1. Late arrival to class is disruptive. Students who consistently arrive after the beginning of the class (2 or more times) will be counseled and a plan of corrective action determined. Class will begin promptly at the scheduled time. Students who arrive fifteen (15) minutes after the beginning of class should not enter the classroom and should wait until break to enter. Repetitive tardiness will result in a 5-point deduction on next exam grade. 

 

  1. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the instructor of any absence or delay from scheduled activities PRIOR TO scheduled class sessions. If the student is unable to contact the instructor(s), the student should call 409-984-6356 or 1-800-477-5872 ext. 6366. The student should also email the faculty or call the faculty office and leave a voicemail.  

 

  1. Class is scheduled to begin at 12:30 on Wednesdays unless otherwise stated. 

 

  1. If the student is unsuccessful in the VNSG 1231 course they are required to 
    repeat VNSG 1204, VNSG 1227, VNSG 1261 and VNSG 1400. 

 

The Program Director or Department Chair has the right to initiate the administrative 

withdrawal of any student whose attendance, conduct, scholastic abilities, attitude or 

lack of aptitude for registered nursing makes it inadvisable for that student to  

continue in the program
Additional Information
Institutional Policies
MyLSCPA Be sure to check your campus email and Course Homepage using MyLSCPA campus web portal. You can also access your grades, transcripts, academic advisors, degree progress, and other services through MyLSCPA.
Academic Honesty Academic honesty is expected from all students, and dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. Please consult the LSCPA policies (Academic Dishonesty section in the Student Handbook) for consequences of academic dishonesty.
ADA Considerations The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the Disability Services Coordinator, Room 117, in the Student Sucess Center. The phone number is (409) 984-6241.
COVID 19 Information The Lamar State College Port Arthur (LSCPA) Student Code of Conduct COVID 19 Policy requires students who have been diagnosed with COVID 19 to report their condition directly to their local health department. Students should also contact their course faculty to report their quarantine status. In addition, this policy requires all students to wear face coverings when directly exposed to COVID 19 in compliance with the criteria included in the policy. For more information please refer to the COVID 19 link on the LSCPA website.
Facility Policies No food or tobacco products are allowed in the classroom. Only students enrolled in the course are allowed in the classroom, except by special instructor permission. Use of electronic devices is prohibited.
HB 2504 This syllabus is part of LSCPA's efforts to comply with Texas House Bill 2504.
Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect As per Texas law and LSCPA policy, all LSCPA employees, including faculty, are required to report allegations or disclosures of child abuse or neglect to the designated authorities, which may include a local or state law enforcement agency or the Texas Department of Family Protective Services. For more information about mandatory reporting requirements, see LSCPA's Policy and Procedure Manual.
Title IX and Sexual Misconduct LSCPA is committed to establishing and maintaining an environment that is free from all forms of sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, sexual violence, and other forms of sexual misconduct. All LSCPA employees, including faculty, have the responsibility to report disclosures of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault (including rape and acquaintance rape), domestic violence, dating violence, relationship violence, or stalking, to LSCPA's Title IX Coordinator, whose role is to coordinate the college's response to sexual misconduct. For more information about Title IX protections, faculty reporting responsibilities, options for confidential reporting, and the resources available for support visit LSCPA's Title IX website.
Clery Act Crime Reporting For more information about the Clery Act and crime reporting, see the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report and the Campus Security website.
Grievance / Complaint / Concern If you have a grievance, complaint, or concern about this course that has not been resolved through discussion with the Instructor, please consult the Department Chair.
Department Information
Allied Health
Chair:Shirley MacNeill
Email:macneisb@lamarpa.edu
Phone:(409) 984-6365