About our authors Michael Patrick Adams, PhD, is an accomplished educator, author and national speaker. The National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development in Austin, Texas, named Dr. Adams a Master Teacher. He has published two other textbooks with Pearson Publishing: Core Concepts in Pharmacology and Pharmacology: Connections to Nursing Practice. Dr. Adams obtained his master's degree in pharmacology from Michigan State University and his doctorate in education from the University of South Florida. Dr. Adams was on the faculty of Lansing Community College and St. Petersburg College, and served as Dean of Health Professions at Pasco-Hernando State College for 15 years. He is currently Adjunct Professor of Biological Sciences at Pasco-Hernando State College and Hillsborough Community College. Leland Norman Holland, Jr. PhD (Norm), over 25 years ago, started out like many scientists, planning for a career in basic science research. He was quickly drawn to the field of teaching in higher medical education, where he has spent most of his career. Among the areas where he has been particularly effective are preparatory programs in nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and allied health. Dr. Holland is both a professor and supporter in nursing education nationwide. He brings to the profession a depth of knowledge in biology, chemistry and medically related subjects such as microbiology, biological chemistry and pharmacology. Dr. Holland's doctoral degree is in medical pharmacology. He is very much dedicated to the success of students and their preparation for careers in health care. He continues to motivate students in the lifelong pursuit of learning. Carol Quam Urban, PhD, RN, Associate Professor, is Director of the School of Nursing and Associate Dean for Practice and Strategic Initiatives in the College of Health and Human Services at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. She has been on the faculty at Mason and considers the study of pharmacology to be a course that truly integrates nursing knowledge, skills and interdisciplinary teamwork. She credits her students, past and present, for providing a never-ending source of real-world stories that make learning about pharmacology enjoyable in class. She has also published the Pearson textbook Pharmacology: Connections to Nursing Practice with Dr. Adams.