In the context of the ATI T-11, what does "pharmacology" refer to?

Pharmacology refers to the study and application of medications, focusing on their effects on the body, appropriate dosing, potential side effects, interactions with other substances, and contraindications which indicate situations where a drug should not be used due to the risk of harmful effects. This field encompasses understanding how drugs work in the body (pharmacodynamics) and how the body processes drugs (pharmacokinetics). By mastering pharmacology, healthcare providers can ensure safe and effective medication management, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The other options address different areas of healthcare: the study of medical histories helps in understanding the background of patient care; patient nutrition focuses on dietary management and nutritional needs; and medical ethics involves the principles guiding conduct in medical practice. While each of these areas is essential to patient care and healthcare systems, they do not capture the core focus of pharmacology, which is strictly related to medications and their effects.