Pharmacology and The Nursing Process

These flashcards cover important vocabulary and concepts in pharmacology and the nursing process to assist in exam preparation.

Right patient

Ensuring that the correct patient receives the medication.

Right drug

Verifying that the correct drug is administered.

Right storage

Storing medications appropriately prior to administration.

Right route

Administering the medication by the correct route.

Right dose

Giving the accurate amount of medication.

Right preparation

Preparing the medication correctly before administration.

Right time

Administering the medication at the proper time.

Right recording

Documenting the administration of the medication accurately.

Patient’s role in medication administration

Patients should keep a list of medications, know their uses, read labels carefully, store drugs safely, and communicate openly.

Before medication administration inquiries

Reviewing home medications, asking about allergies, knowing the intended action and side effects, and checking for reversal agents.

During medication administration checks

Verifying medication rights, checking vital signs, educating the patient, and assessing the necessity of the drug.

After medication administration documentation

Ensuring correct documentation, timely reassessment, managing side effects, and following procedures for controlled substances.

Medication errors statistic

50% of nurses were involved in medication-related errors, with 65% of these being preventable.

Reversal agent

A drug that counteracts the effects of another drug.

Vital signs

Clinical measurements indicating the state of vital bodily functions.

Medication reconciliation

The process of ensuring that a patient’s medication lists are accurate and up-to-date.

Drug side effects

Unintended effects that can occur with medication administration.

Patient education

Providing information to the patient regarding their medications and health condition.

Administering medications

The act of giving a medication to a patient, following specific protocols.

Controlled substances

Drugs that are regulated by law, often due to their potential for abuse and addiction.

Medication label instructions

Guidelines provided on medication packaging about usage and dosing.

Allergy inquiry

The process of asking patients about any known allergies before medication administration.

Medication storage guidelines

Recommendations for keeping medications in a safe and effective condition.

Patient medication list

A comprehensive record of all medications a patient is taking.

Patient advocacy in medication use

Encouraging patients to communicate openly about their medications and concerns.

Nursing decision making

The process by which nurses evaluate and make choices regarding patient care and medication administration.

Preventing medication errors

Strategies to minimize the risk of mistakes in medication administration.

Medication administration timeframe

The period in which nurses should reassess the patient after medication is given.

Mitigating side effects

Actions taken to reduce or manage unwanted effects from medication.

Documenting medication administration

The process of recording the details of medication given to a patient.

Assessment of medication necessity

Evaluating the need for a specific medication before administration.