Pharmacology Nursing: Drug Names, Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Safety

What is the generic name for Tylenol?

Acetaminophen

What are the key steps in learning pharmacology?

Assess drug allergies, review current medications, obtain patient history, and know the drug's generic name, class, therapeutic effect, contraindications, side effects, interactions, and nursing care.

What is the first pass effect?

The concentration of a drug is significantly reduced before it reaches systemic circulation.

What is the primary route for drug absorption?

Oral (PO) administration.

What is the significance of protein binding in drug distribution?

Drugs can be bound to plasma proteins (inactive) or unbound (free); only free drugs can exert pharmacologic effects.

What factors can impair renal function and affect drug excretion?

Impaired renal function, reduced blood flow through the kidney, and aging.

What is the role of the liver in drug metabolism?

The liver commonly breaks down drugs through biotransformation, primarily via cytochrome P450 enzymes.

What are agonists in drug-receptor interactions?

Agonists mimic, stimulate, or activate a response.

What are antagonists in drug-receptor interactions?

Antagonists inhibit or block a response.

What is the half-life of a drug?

The time required for the body to eliminate 50% of the original amount of a drug.

What is teratogenesis?

Birth defects caused by medications that pass through the placenta.

What is the importance of medication reconciliation?

It reviews a patient's current list of medications at various points of care to ensure safety.

What should be monitored in patients with low albumin levels?

Increased free (active) drug levels, which can lead to toxicity.

What are the common side effects of inhaled medications like albuterol?

Tremors, tachycardia, palpitations, and nervousness.

What is the significance of lipid solubility in drug absorption?

Highly lipid-soluble drugs are absorbed more rapidly as they can readily cross cell membranes.

What are the normal ranges for ALT and AST liver function tests?

ALT: 4 to 36 U/L; AST: 8 to 33 U/L.

What is nephrotoxicity?

Kidney damage indicated by increased BUN and creatinine levels, and decreased creatinine clearance.

What should be done if a medication error occurs?

Submit a variance report and follow institutional policies.

What is the effect of grapefruit juice on drug metabolism?

It may increase blood levels of many drugs by inhibiting their metabolism.

What are the types of medication orders?

Written orders, STAT orders, PRN orders, standing orders, and single orders.

What is the role of nursing care in pharmacology?

To assess, educate, and monitor patients regarding their medications and potential side effects.

What is the difference between sustained-release and enteric-coated preparations?

Sustained-release drugs dissolve at variable rates for prolonged effects; enteric-coated drugs are protected from stomach acid and dissolve in the intestine.

What is the nursing implication for transdermal patches?

Ensure the old patch is removed before applying a new one and apply to dry, clean skin.

What is the primary route of drug excretion?

Primarily by the kidneys.

What is the impact of aging on drug metabolism?

Hepatic metabolism declines, leading to slower drug metabolism and increased risk of adverse effects.

What should be assessed before administering medications?

Baseline vital signs, laboratory tests, and physical findings.

What is the significance of drug-drug interactions?

They can lead to increased toxicity or decreased therapeutic effects when two drugs compete for protein-binding sites.

What are common adverse effects of long-term ibuprofen use?

Increased serum creatinine levels and potential kidney damage.