Assignments | Pass with Confidence
selectivity - A "selective" drug binds to a primary and predictable site, creating one
desired effect. A "non-selective" drug can bind to many different and unpredictable receptor
sites with potential side effects.
stage 1: the interim between consciousness and sleep - when sleep is interrupted, what
stage does the sleep cycle restart?
NREM sleep - encompasses all sleep stages except for REM sleep
insomnia - the inability to fall asleep
- affects 10-30% of Americans
- more common in female patients
- tx: sedative hypnotics
action of benzodiazepines - this class of medication is used to treat sleep disorders
(insomnia) and anxiety
- interacts with neurotransmitter GABA to reduce neuron excitability
action of non benzodiazepines - this class of medications inhibits neurotransmitters and
causes CNS depression
- the duration of action is 6-8 hours
- treats insomnia short term ( less than 10 days)
- older adults are given smaller doses
depression
tolerance
dependence
hypotension - adverse reactions of benzodiazepine drugs
contraindications - If a patient has respiratory depression or an allergy they should not
take benzodiazepines. Respiratory depression and a benzodiazepine allergy are
considered____________?
,non pharmalogical measures first
avoid other CNS depressants, OTC sleep aids, and benzos
take at bedtime (sedative)
do not drive while medicated (sedative)
report feelings of hangover (not enough sleep) - what teaching is needed for patient's
who take non benzodiazepine medications such as Ambien?
general anesthesia - involves the total loss of body sensation and consciousness induced
by anesthetic agents administered primarily by inhalation or intravenous injection
local anesthesia - causes the loss of sensation in a limited area by injecting an anesthetic
solution near that area
regional anesthesia - Temporary interruption of nerve conduction, is produced by
injecting an anesthetic solution near the nerves to be blocked
- such as an epidural
balanced anesthesia - use of several different types of drugs to achieve the quickest,
most effective anesthesia with the fewest adverse effects
- involves using less general anesthesia
- premedication with an opioid analgesic or benzo (versed/midazolam)
- with an anticholinergic (to prevent aspiration and dry secretions)
- a short acting barbituate
- an inhaled gas
- muscle relaxant
Midazolam (Versed) - Class: Benzodiazepine
Indications: the induction and maintenance of anesthesia or conscious sedation for minor
surgery or procedures
- patients are sedated and relaxed but responsive to commands
Adverse effects: respiratory and cardiovascular depression
Contraindications: cardiopulmonary disease
, Nursing Considerations:
- assess level of sedation during and for 2-6 hours following
- monitor blood pressure, pulse, respirations during IV administration
- The antidote for overdose is flumazenil
spinal and epidural anesthesia - is administered into the cerebral fluid or epidural area of
the spine that corresponds with the area being treated
- commonly used for caesarian sections
- common side effect: headache
- adverse reactions: hypotension and respiratory distress
monitory safety
observe urine output
monitor vital signs - what are the nursing interventions for anesthetics
topical anesthetics - block sensation of pain by numbing the skin layers and mucous
membranes
- benzocaine
- lidocaine
contraindications of non benzodiazepines - if a patient has an allergy to benzodiazepines,
respiratory depression, severe renal or liver disease, a child, or an older adult, they should not
take Ambien. The following are contraindications of what medicaiton class?
lethargy
drowsiness
confusion (older adults)
memory impairment - side effects of benzodiazepines
drowsiness
lethargy
dizziness
memory impairment - side effects of non benzodiazepines