Recording-2025-03-11T16:09:02.761Z

Lab Results and Drug Administration

• Importance of checking kidney function regularly (every six months) for patients under drug administration that may affect kidneys.

• Administering medication without verifying physician's orders can lead to dangerous medication errors.

  • Nurses must double-check orders to ensure patient safety.

Dosage Determination for Pediatric and Geriatric Patients

• Children and Infants:

  • Dosage is based on age and body weight; no standard dosages like adults (e.g., losartan).

  • Need for parental or caregiver input to determine effective medication administration methods.

  • Use caution not to misrepresent medication as candy to avoid future health risks for children.

• Older Adults:

  • Increased risk of overmedication due to slower metabolic rates and potential for decreased kidney function.

  • Common issues include:

    • Limited fluid and food intake

    • Decrease in body mass and physical activity

    • Complexity of medication regimens (often 13-20 medications)

    • Swallowing difficulties and reliance on pill organizers.

  • Financial constraints and potential confusion leading to noncompliance in taking prescribed medications.

  • Considerations for medication accessibility and instruction clarity for older patients.

Noncompliance and Factors

• Noncompliance can result from a variety of factors:

  • Lack of understanding of the medication's role.

  • Financial constraints affecting access to necessary medications (e.g., insulin).

  • Side effects causing patients to discontinue medications, especially relevant in mental health drugs (e.g., antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications).

Nursing Process and Medication Administration

• Essential to understand:

  • Medical conditions being treated, drug actions, and side effects.

  • Monitor vital signs for medications affecting blood pressure and heart rate.

Six Rights of Medication Administration

1. Right Drug: Confirm accuracy by checking label multiple times, appearance, and expiration.

2. Right Dose: Calculate accurately, taking age/weight and organ function into account, especially for children and elderly.

3. Right Route: Ensure correct method of administration (oral, IV, etc.).

4. Right Time: Follow scheduled intervals for consistent therapeutic levels in the bloodstream.

5. Right Patient: Confirm identity through multiple methods (name, date of birth).

6. Right Documentation: Record all relevant information after administration.

Medication Order Types

• Routine/Standard Orders: Administered consistently for therapeutic drug levels (3-4 times daily).

• PRN Orders: Given as needed (e.g., pain relief).

• Stat Orders: Require immediate action.

• Renewal Orders: Need to be re-evaluated every 2-30 days, depending on the medication.

Considerations for Special Medication Scenarios

• Using precautions when administering medications to ensure effectiveness and safety, especially with elderly and pediatric populations.

• Assessing and reassessing the patient before and after medication administration to monitor effectiveness and any adverse reactions.

Practical Medication Administration Tips

• Educate patients on safe storage of medications (especially around children).

• Provide written instructions for medications due to memory challenges in patients.

• Avoid distractions during medication administration to prevent errors.

• Use appropriate methods for administering medications such as sublingual, oral, or topical forms appropriately.