Final answer:
Understanding pharmacology is important for patient safety because it helps healthcare professionals make informed decisions about drug selection, dosage, and administration. By knowing how drugs interact with the body and potential risks, healthcare professionals can minimize harm and maximize therapeutic effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding pharmacology is crucial for patient safety because it allows healthcare professionals to have a comprehensive knowledge of how drugs interact with the body and potential risks associated with their use. By understanding pharmacology, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions about drug selection, dosage, and route of administration, considering factors such as the patient's age, medical condition, and potential drug interactions. For example, understanding the difference between broad-spectrum and narrow-spectrum drugs helps healthcare professionals choose the most appropriate medication to target specific pathogens while minimizing the risk of superinfections. Additionally, understanding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a drug helps healthcare professionals determine the right dosage for a patient to achieve the desired therapeutic effects without causing harm.