NUR2474 Pharmacology

eight aspects of drug therapy: - ans --(1) preadministration assessment, (2) dosage and administration, (3) promoting therapeutic effects, (4) minimizing adverse effects, (5) minimizing adverse interactions, (6) making "as needed" (PRN) decisions, (7) evaluating responses to medication, and (8) managing toxicity. The following guidelines can help ensure correct administration: - ans --• Read the medication order carefully. If the order is unclear, verify it with the prescriber. • Verify the identity of the patient by comparing the name on the wristband with the name on the drug order or medication administration record. • Read the medication label carefully. Verify the identity of the drug, the amount of drug (per tablet, volume of liquid, etc.), and its suitability for administration by the intended route. • Verify dosage calculations. • Implement any special handling the drug may require. • Don't administer any drug if you don't understand the reason for its use. Application of Pharmacology in Patient Education Very often, the nurse is responsible for educating patients about medications. In your role as educator, you must give the patient the following information: - ans --• Drug name and therapeutic category (e.g., penicillin: antibiotic) • Dosage • Dosing schedule • Route and technique of administration • Expected therapeutic response and when it should develop • Nondrug measures to enhance therapeutic responses • Duration of treatment • Method of drug storage • Symptoms of major adverse effects, and measures to minimize discomfort and harm • Major adverse drug-drug and drug-food interactions • Whom to contact in the event of therapeutic failure, severe adverse reactions, or severe adverse interactio Adherence— - ans --also known as compliance or concordance