Commonly Used Drugs and Nursing Implications
Module 01 Content
This is a partnered assignment started and discussed in class. Using Davis’s Drug Guide, add any additional resources to finalize one card for each of the two researched drugs. Put your names on the two cards and include the following:
Name of the Drug
Classification of Drug
Mechanism of Action
Recommended Dose
Routes of Administration
Potential Side Effects
Possible Adverse Effects
Special Nursing Care Considerations and Implications for this Drug
Drug 1: Aspirin
- Name of the Drug: Aspirin
- Classification of Drug: Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
- Mechanism of Action: Aspirin inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are involved in pain, inflammation, and fever. It also has antiplatelet properties by inhibiting platelet aggregation.
- Recommended Dose: Typically, 325-650 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain or fever. Lower doses (81 mg) are often used for cardiovascular protection.
- Routes of Administration: Oral, rectal (suppository)
- Potential Side Effects: Common side effects may include gastrointestinal irritation, heartburn, and bleeding. Rarely, aspirin can cause Reye’s syndrome in children with viral infections.
- Possible Adverse Effects: Serious adverse effects may include bleeding disorders, stomach ulcers, and allergic reactions. Overdose can lead to tinnitus, dizziness, confusion, and metabolic acidosis.
- Special Nursing Care Considerations and Implications:
- Assess for allergies or hypersensitivity to aspirin.
- Monitor for signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as black, tarry stools or bloody vomit.
- Be cautious when administering to pediatric patients due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
- Educate patients on the importance of taking aspirin with food or milk to minimize gastric irritation.
Drug 2: Lisinopril
- Name of the Drug: Lisinopril
- Classification of Drug: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor
- Mechanism of Action: Lisinopril inhibits ACE, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure. It also reduces the workload on the heart by decreasing afterload.
- Recommended Dose: The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily for hypertension. The dose may be titrated based on blood pressure response.
- Routes of Administration: Oral
- Potential Side Effects: Common side effects include cough, dizziness, and elevated blood potassium levels. Less common side effects may include angioedema and kidney dysfunction.
- Possible Adverse Effects: Adverse effects can include severe allergic reactions (angioedema), kidney dysfunction, and hypotension.
- Special Nursing Care Considerations and Implications:
- Monitor blood pressure regularly to assess the drug’s effectiveness.
- Watch for signs of angioedema, such as facial swelling and difficulty breathing.
- Check kidney function by monitoring serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
- Advise patients to avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes high in potassium while taking lisinopril due to the risk of hyperkalemia.