ATI Pharmacology NCLEX

Antiemetic

A medication used in the treatment and/or prevention of nausea and vomiting.

5-HT3 receptor antagonists

A class of antiemetics that includes Dolasetron, Granisetron, Ondansetron, and Tropisetron.

Dopamine antagonists

A class of antiemetics that includes Promethazine, Prochlorperazine, and Metoclopramide.

Promethazine

A dopamine antagonist used as an antiemetic.

Metoclopramide

A unique dopamine antagonist that may cause extra-pyramidal side effects.

Antihistamines

H1 receptor antagonists used as antiemetics, including Diphenhydramine and Meclizine.

Cannabinoids

A type of antiemetic including Cannabis and Dronabinol.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Medications that decrease stomach acid by inhibiting gastric proton pumps.

Omeprazole

A common PPI with multiple brand names including Prilosec and Zegerid.

Antianemics

Medications prescribed for the treatment of anemia, commonly including iron supplements.

Statins

HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors used to treat hypercholesterolemia.

Atorvastatin

A commonly prescribed statin known by the brand name Lipitor.

Hepatotoxicity

A risk associated with statins that necessitates monitoring liver function.

Anticholinergics

Medications that block ACh and enhance dopamine transmission.

Corticosteroids

Medications used to respond to inflammation and stress.

Prednisone

A common corticosteroid used to manage inflammation.

INR

International Normalized Ratio, monitored in patients taking Coumadin.

Anticoagulants

Medications that prevent blood clot formation, including Heparin and Coumadin.

Thrombolytic Agents

Medications that dissolve clots, increasing a client's risk for bleeding.

Echinacea

An herbal supplement used to treat the common cold.

Ginger root

An herbal remedy used to decrease nausea.

Ginkgo biloba

An herbal supplement promoting vasodilation and potentially aiding cognitive function.

Insulin

A hormone used to manage diabetes mellitus.

Lispro (Humalog)

A rapid-acting insulin with an onset of less than 15 minutes.

NPH insulin (Humulin N)

An intermediate-acting insulin with a peak time of 4 to 12 hours.

Insulin glargine (Lantus)

A long-acting insulin with no peak.

Aspirin

An antiplatelet medication used to prevent myocardial infarction and stroke.

Coumadin (Warfarin sodium)

An anticoagulant that antagonizes vitamin K.

Heparin

An anticoagulant preventing thrombin from converting fibrinogen to fibrin.

Vitamin K

The antidote for Coumadin, necessary when coagulation factors are antagonized.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter involved in motor function and cognitive processes.

Z-Track technique

An injection method used to minimize staining from IM iron injections.

Vitamin B12 deficiency

A potential side effect of long-term use of PPIs.

Myopathy

Muscle-related adverse effect associated with statins.

GABA

A neurotransmitter increased by valerian to promote sleep.

Tachycardia

An increased heart rate that can result from anticholinergic side effects.

Urinary retention

A possible adverse effect of anticholinergic medications.

Dry mouth

A common side effect of antihistamines and anticholinergics.

Flushing

A side effect associated with erectile dysfunction medications.

Cataracts risk

An adverse reaction associated with long-term corticosteroid use.

Nutrition assessment

Important for patients taking anticoagulants to monitor vitamin K intake.

Exercise program

Recommended for clients taking iron supplements to counter constipation.

Monitor for bleeding

A nursing intervention for patients taking anticoagulants and antiplatelets.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL)

The 'good' cholesterol that helps lower bad cholesterol levels.

Hypoglycemia signs

Symptoms to assess for in clients after insulin administration.

Surveillance of glucose levels

Necessary for clients on insulin therapy to prevent low blood sugar.

Straw method

Used to reduce teeth staining from liquid iron supplements.

Dilution of iron

Recommended for clients taking liquid form of iron to prevent staining.

Exercise and fiber intake

Advice for clients on iron supplements to combat constipation.

B12 supplementation

Potential necessity for clients on long-term PPI therapy.

Reported muscle weakness

Symptom clients on statins should be educated about.

Paclitaxel

Other medications should be avoided in conjunction with antiplatelet therapy.

Monitor CK levels

A check done periodically for clients taking statins to assess muscle health.

Vitamin C

Should be avoided when taking iron supplements as it increases GI complications.

Dronabinol (Marinol)

A cannabinoid used as an antiemetic, classified as Schedule III in the U.S.

Prochlorperazine (Compazine)

A dopamine antagonist used as an antiemetic.

Ondansetron (Zofran)

A commonly used 5-HT3 receptor antagonist used to prevent nausea.