Ondansetron

Action

500

What is the Mechanism of Action for Ondansetron?

Blocks serotonin 

(both peripherally on vagal nerve terminals & centrally in chemoreceptor trigger zone).

Side Effects

400

Name 2 Adverse Effects of Ondansetron

- Hypertension

- Acute renal failure

- GI bleeding

- Respiratory depression

- Coma

500

Name 3 Side Effects of Ondansetron

- Anxiety

- Dizziness

- Drowsinesss

- Headache

- Fatigue

- Constipation

- Diarrhea

- Hypoxia

- Urinary Retention

Indications

400

What are the contraindications?

- Hypersensitivity to ondansetron and other HT3 anatgonists

- Concomitant use of apomorphine

500

What is it used for?

Nausea/Vomiting

(Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea/Vomiting, Prevention of Post-op Nausea/Vomiting, Prevention of Radiation-Induced Nausea/Vomiting)

Patient Education

400

What do you want to avoid?

Alcohol and barbiturates

500

Name 2 Patient Education Points

- Relief from nausea/vomiting occurs shortly after administration

- Avoid alcohol and barbiturates

- Report persistent vomiting

- Avoid tasks that require alertness and motor skills until response to drug is established

Nursing Implications

500

Name 2 Nursing Implications

- Assess degree of nausea/vomiting

- Assess for dehydration if excessive vomtiing occurs

- Provide emotional support

- Monitor electrolytes

- Assess bowel activity and stool consistency