Drug Classes
This drug class lowers blood pressure and heart rate and includes metoprolol and atenolol.
beta blockers
This medication side effect is commonly seen with opioids and can become life-threatening if severe
respiratory depression
Before administering this medication, the nurse should check the apical pulse for one full minute and hold the medication if the heart rate is too low.
digoxin
This medication teaching is important for clients taking antibiotics to help prevent resistance and recurrence of infection.
complete entire prescription
This medication safety practice requires the nurse to compare the medication label to the MAR three times before administration.
Three Checks of Medication Administration
This drug class ends in "-pril," can cause a dry cough, and is commonly prescribed for hypertension and heart failure.
Ace Inhibitors
This drug class removes excess fluid from the body and includes furosemide (Lasix).
diuretics
This side effect is commonly associated with ACE inhibitors such as lisinopril and enalapril.
dry cough
Before administering this medication, the nurse should assess blood pressure and heart rate and hold the medication if vital signs fall below ordered parameters.
beta blockers
Clients taking this medication should change positions slowly to prevent dizziness and falls.
antihypertensives
These medications have a high risk for causing significant patient harm if administered incorrectly and often require an independent double-check.
High Alert Medications
This medication side effect is associated with digoxin toxicity and causes patients to see yellow or green halos around objects
visual disturbances
This drug class opens the airways during an asthma attack and includes albuterol.
bronchodilators
This side effect can occur with albuterol and causes patients to feel shaky and have a rapid heart rate.
tachycardia and tremors
After administering this medication, the nurse should monitor for signs of bleeding and regularly assess INR levels.
warfarin
A patient using this inhaled medication should rinse their mouth after each use to prevent oral thrush.
inhaled corticosteroids
The nurse scans the patient's wristband and medication prior to administration to help prevent medication errors.
Bar Code Medication Administration
A patient prescribed this osteoporosis medication should take it with a full glass of water, on an empty stomach, and remain upright for at least 30 minutes.
alendronate
This drug class helps prevent blood clots and includes warfarin and heparin
anticoagulants
This serious side effect of anticoagulants may be indicated by black tarry stools, hematuria, or unusual bruising.
bleeding
When administering this medication, the nurse should monitor blood glucose levels and ensure the patient has a meal available.
insulin
A patient taking this medication should avoid foods high in vitamin K such as spinach, kale, and broccoli unless discussed with their healthcare provider
warfarin
Before administering insulin, the nurse notices the blood glucose is 62 mg/dL. This medication safety principle tells the nurse to stop and reassess before giving the medication.
assess before you administer
"Wear sunscreen because you may become more sensitive to sunlight."
tetracycline antibiotics
This drug class decreases stomach acid production and includes omeprazole and pantoprazole.
proton pump inhibitors
This potentially dangerous side effect of diuretics such as furosemide can lead to muscle weakness and cardiac dysrhythmias.
hypokalemia
After administering this medication, the nurse should monitor potassium levels, daily weights, intake and output, and lung sounds.
lasix
A patient taking this medication should carry a source of fast-acting sugar and know the signs of hypoglycemia.
insulin
If a patient states, "I don't want to take that medication," the nurse should recognize and respect this medication administration right
Right to refuse
The nurse notices a provider's order for morphine 50 mg IV push for a postoperative patient. This medication safety action should occur before administering the medication
Clarify order