NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Name Trade Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Hydrocodone/acetaminophen Name
Lortab Opioid 1-2 tabs PO Q 4 hrs PRN
5/500
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and
30-60 min 10-30 min 4-6 hrs /or solutions
N/A
Normal Dosage Range:
2.5-10 mg q 3-6 hr acetaminophen dosage
should not exceed 4g/day from all sources.
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Bind to opiate receptors in the CNS. Alter the perception of and Hypersensitivity to hydrocodone and
response to painful stimuli while producing generalized CNS acetaminophen, Severe hepatic or renal
depression. disease.
Common side effects
CNS: confusion, sedation, dysphoria,
euphoria, floating, hallucinations, headache,
unusual dreams, EENT: blurred vision,
diplopia, miosis. RESP: respiratory
depression. CV: hypotension, bradycardia. GI:
constipation, nausea, vomiting. GU: urinary
retention. MISC: physical dependence,
psychological dependence, tolerance.
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines Lab value alterations caused by medicine
(ask patient specifically) May cause increased plasma amylase and
Additive CNS depression with alcohol, antihistamines, and lipase concentrations
sedative/hypnotics. Be sure to teach the patient the following
about this medication
Instruct patient on how and when to ask for
pain medication. Advise patient to call for
assistance when ambulating. Change positions
slowly to avoid orthostatic hypotension. Avoid
alcohol, may cause drowsiness or dizziness,
good oral hygiene, turn cough and breath
every 2 hrs.
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not Check after giving
Assess Blood pressure, pulse and respirations before and give this med? Asses level of pain 1
periodically during administration. Assess type, location Respiration less than 12/min hr after administration
and intensity of pain prior to and 1 hour following Pulse less than 60beats/min of medication. Assess
administration. Assess bowel function. Blood pressure, pulse,
respirations, bowel
function.