Responsibilities of the Nurse When Administering Medication
- Determine the drug ordered: Understand the specific medication prescribed by the healthcare
provider.
- Identify the medication: Know both the generic and trade names, along with the drug classification.
- Understand intended use: Be aware of the proposed purposes of the medication.
- Assess effects on the body: Know how the drug affects the body’s systems.
- Recognize contraindications: Be informed about situations where the drug should not be used.
- Consider special factors: Understand how factors such as age, weight, body fat distribution, and
individual health conditions may impact the pharmacotherapeutic response.
- Monitor side effects: Be aware of potential side effects associated with the medication.
- Rationale for prescribing: Know why this particular medication has been prescribed for the specific
patient.
- Learn medication supply format: Understand how the pharmacy supplies the medication (e.g., forms,
packaging).
- Administer medication correctly: Be knowledgeable about the proper administration method and
dosage ranges.
- Apply nursing process considerations: Tailor the nursing process to the individual patient concerning
medication administration.
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Allergic Reaction
- An allergic reaction is characterized as an acquired hypersensitivity of the immune system to a foreign
substance (allergen).
- Signs may vary in severity and can include skin rashes (with or without itching), edema, runny nose,
and reddened eyes with tearing.
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, Anaphylaxis
- Anaphylaxis is a severe type of allergic reaction involving a rapid, systemic release of histamine and
other inflammatory mediators, posing a life-threatening risk.
- Symptoms may include acute dyspnea (difficulty breathing), sudden hypotension, or tachycardia
following drug administration, which require immediate treatment.
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The Five Rights of Drug Administration
- The Five Rights provide a foundational guideline to ensure safe medication delivery and focus on the
responsibilities of nurses during drug preparation and administration:
1. Right Patient
2. Right Medication
3. Right Dose
4. Right Route of Administration
5. Right Time of Delivery
- Additional rights may include the right to refuse medication, the right to receive medication education,
the right preparation, and the right documentation.
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The Three Checks of Drug Administration
- Used alongside the Five Rights, these checks help ensure patient safety and drug efficacy:
1. Verify the drug against the Medication Administration Record (MAR) or medication information
system when retrieving it from storage.
2. Recheck the drug while preparing, pouring, or connecting IV tubing.
3. Confirm the drug before administering it to the patient.
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