INDEX NURS 2236 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheet

(You will need to made additional copies of these forms)

Generic Trade Classification Dose Route Time/Frequency
Name Name
amlodipine Norvasc antihypertensive 5mg PO qday

Peak Onset Duration Normal Dosage Range

5-10mg qday
6-9hr unknown 24 hr
Why is your patient taking this medication? For IV meds, compatability with IV drips and/or solutions
Hypertension

Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)

Alone or with other agents in the management of
hypertension, angina pectoris, and vasospastic
(Prinzmetal's) angina
Systemic vasodilation resulting in decreased BP
Coronary vasodilation resulting indecreased frequency and
severity of attack of angina
Contraindications/warnings/interactions hypersensitivity, BP <90 mmHg;
Use cautiously in: severe hepatic impairment (dosage reduction); geriatric
patients (dosage reduction); aortic stenosis; history of CHF; pregnancy,
lactation, or children
Common side effects headache, dizziness, fatigue, peripheral edema,
angina, bradycardia, hypotension, palpitations, gingival hyperplasia,
nausea, flushing

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC, or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
fentanyl, antihypertensives, nitrates, alcohol, quinidine,
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, lithium
Nursing Process - Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment
Monitor BP and pulse, ECG for prolonged
therapy; Daily weight; intake/output; signs
of CHF; for angina assess location, duration,
intensity, and precipitating factors of patient's
anginal pain
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Total serum calcium concentrations are not affected by calcium channel blockers.
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication
Monitor pulse, HR (call doctor if <50bpm); change position slowly (hypotension);
may cause drowsiness or dizziness; good dental hygiene; avoid alcohol; OTC
meds; irregular heart beats; dyspnea; swelling of hands and feet; nausea;
constipation; headache; chest pain; shortness of breath; exercise restrictions;
weight reduction; low-sodium diet; smoking cessation; stress management.
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give Check after giving
this med? Decrease in BP
signs of CHF: peripheral edema, rales/ Decrease in frequency and severity of anginal
crackles, dyspnea, weight gain, jugular attacks.
venous distention. Decrease in need for nitrate therapy
Increase in activity tolerance and sense of
well-being