Medications for PNA and PE

A robust set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to medications for pneumonia (PNA) and pulmonary embolism (PE), ensuring foundational understanding for exam preparation.

Bronchodilators

Medications that reduce bronchospasm and irritation in the airways.

SABAs

Short-Acting Beta Agonists, such as Albuterol and Levalbuterol.

Ipratropium

A cholinergic agonist that increases bronchodilation and decreases pulmonary secretions.

Mucolytics

Medications that help thin secretions to make them easier to expectorate.

Guaifenesin

A common mucolytic used for productive cough, marketed as Mucinex.

Antitussives

Cough medications that suppress the cough reflex, used especially for dry cough.

Examples of antitussives

Codeine, Hydrocodone, Dextromethorphan, Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles).

Penicillins

A classification of antibiotics commonly used for bacterial pneumonia (PNA).

Cephalosporins

A class of antibiotics used in the treatment of bacterial infections, including PNA.

Macrolides

Antibiotics used for clients with co-morbidities or who have failed initial therapy.

Fluoroquinolones

Broad-spectrum antibiotics used in specific severe cases or drug-resistant strains.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics

Antibiotics effective against a wide variety of bacteria.

Glucocorticoids

Anti-inflammatory medications that help reduce inflammation in the lungs.

Fluticasone

An inhaled glucocorticoid used for reducing airway inflammation.

Prednisone

An oral glucocorticoid often used for severe inflammation.

Unfractionated heparin

An anticoagulant given intravenously, often in a drip for immediate anticoagulation.

Low-molecular-weight heparin

An anticoagulant administered subcutaneously, e.g., Enoxaparin.

Warfarin

An oral anticoagulant that requires monitoring of INR levels.

Direct Factor Xa Inhibitors

Oral anticoagulants that inhibit thrombin production, e.g., Rivaroxaban.

Thrombolytic therapy

Treatment used to dissolve blood clots and restore circulation.

Alteplase

A type of thrombolytic medication also known as Activase.

Vitamin K

An antidote for warfarin anticoagulant therapy.

Protamine

An antidote for heparin therapy, used to reverse its effects.

Thrombocytopenia

A potential side effect of factor Xa inhibitors, characterized by low platelet count.

aPTT

Activated partial thromboplastin time, a test to monitor heparin therapy.

CBC

Complete blood count, a test used to monitor for bleeding complications.

Safety education

Information provided to patients regarding safe medication practices.