Midterm Breakdown
Abdominal Discomfort and Related Effects
Abdominal discomfort may precede other symptoms such as low blood pressure.
Potential side effects due to low blood pressure include:
Heart rate decrease
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Weakness
Importance of recognizing effects when in bed due to safety concerns.
E.g., blurred vision can affect TV viewing or getting up, posing safety risks.
Immediate Safety Concerns
Focus on immediate safety issues regarding the patient.
Notable effects to monitor:
Low blood pressure
Dizziness
Weakness
Blurred vision
Medication Management for Hypertension
Common medications for hypertension: Lisinopril, Metoprolol, Verapamil.
Purpose: Manage hypertension and treat angina.
Adverse effects and side effects include:
Confusion
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Parameters for Administering Medications
Parameters to monitor:
Hold medication for heart rate < 60 bpm.
Hold medication for systolic blood pressure < 100 mmHg.
Drug administration may require various unit adjustments depending on blood sugar readings:
E.g., blood sugar of 240 may yield specific unit instructions for insulin administration.
Hydromorphone and its Effects
Hydromorphone: Opioid medication prescribed for pain relief.
Known side effects include:
Drowsiness
Restlessness
Confusion
Low blood pressure
Safety reminder for elderly or children regarding exaggerated effects due to slower clearance of medications.
Differences between Side Effects and Adverse Effects
Distinction between side effects and adverse effects is crucial:
Side effects: Expected effects that occur as the medication works in the body.
Adverse effects: Unlikely but potentially dangerous effects that might occur separately from side effects.
Instances of both must be communicated to the patient when administering medications.
Administration Considerations for Digoxin
Digoxin: Used for heart failure.
Side effects include:
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Low blood pressure
Blood pressure monitoring, heart rate assessment, and Digoxin levels are crucial.
Safety Issues regarding Warfarin
Warfarin: Anticoagulant medication requiring careful monitoring.
Parameters include:
Check PTT (partial thromboplastin time) for bleeding risk.
Recognize signs of internal bleeding, such as dark, tarry stools, or hematomas.
Dietary considerations: Limit dark green leafy vegetables (high in vitamin K) that could interfere with Warfarin's efficacy.
Diuretics and Monitoring
Example: Spironolactone: Used to manage fluid retention.
Monitor potassium levels, as it can affect kidney function.
Assess BUN and creatinine due to potential renal complications.
Safety Risks Associated with Insulin Administration
Insulin is associated with risks of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
Signs of hypoglycemia include:
Dizziness
Confusion
Loss of consciousness
Diaphoresis (sweating)
General Medication Administration Protocols
Importance of patient safety instructions:
Instruct patients on administration protocols to avoid accidents from dizziness or low blood pressure.
Encourage patients to call for assistance before getting up to avoid falls.
Communication and Documentation in Medications
Clear communication regarding medications and side effects to patients is vital for safety.
Document administration and any reactions accurately.
Follow the established 10 rights of medication administration:
Right patient
Right medication
Right dose
Right route
Right time
Right education
Right to refuse
Right assessment
Right evaluation
Right documentation
Effective scanning of medications is crucial to avoid administration errors.
Closing Remarks and Next Steps
Stay updated on all medication parameters.
Refer to EHR (Electronic Health Record) for verifying medications and dosages prescribed.
Continuous education on pharmacology is essential for practical application in nursing care.