The Nursing Process and Drug Therapy

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts relating to the nursing process and drug therapy based on the provided lecture notes.

Nursing Process

A five-step process used in nursing that includes assessment, human needs statements, planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Assessment

The first step of the nursing process, involving data collection, review, and analysis of subjective and objective information about the patient.

Subjective Data

Information reported by the patient regarding what they feel or think.

Objective Data

Observable and measurable information obtained from physical exams and diagnostic tests.

Human Needs Statement

Previously known as nursing diagnoses, it identifies major health-related problems and assesses the patient's needs.

Outcome Criteria

Specific, measurable goals that delineate what is expected from drug therapy.

Implementation

The phase of the nursing process where the care plan is put into action, including patient education.

PRN

Medications administered on an as-needed basis.

Medication Reconciliation

The process of obtaining and verifying a comprehensive list of a patient’s medications, checking for discrepancies, and communicating these to the relevant parties.

Pharmacokinetics

The study of how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in the body.

Agonist

A substance that binds to and activates a receptor to produce a biological response.

Antagonist

A substance that binds to a receptor but does not activate it, effectively blocking the receptor's activation by agonists.

Half-Life

The time required for half of a drug to be eliminated from the body, important for determining dosing intervals.

Adverse Effects

Serious and potentially life-threatening complications resulting from drug use.

Black Box Warning

A label required by the FDA that indicates significant risk of serious or life-threatening adverse effects associated with a drug.

CYP450 System

A family of enzymes involved in drug metabolism that can vary between individuals based on genetics and race.

Teratogenic

Substances that can cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy.

Culturally Competent Care

Providing care that is respectful of and responsive to the cultural needs of patients.

Patient Education

The process of influencing patient behavior to promote health and prevent disease, an essential part of nursing.