NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Famotidine Pepcid Histamine H2 8mg IVPB Every 12 Hours
Antagonists
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
0.5-3 hr within 60 min 8-15 hr Infuse over 30 min. w/ 40 mL 0.9% NaCl at 1.36 mL/min

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

(Why med ordered)
Inhibits the action of histamine at the H2-receptor sites in gastric
parietal cells, resulting in inhibition of gastric acid secretion.
Indicated to Management of urticaria, Management of GI symptoms
associated with the use of NSAIDs,
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
none
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hypersensitivity. Products containing alcohol should be avoided in pt’s
w/ known intolerance. Renal impairment (more susceptible to adverse
CNS reactions; increased dosage interval recommended if CCr <10
ml/min
Common side effects
CNS: c\Confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, hallucinations, headache
CV: Arrhythmias
GI: Altered taste, constipation, diarrhea, nausea
Hemat: Agranulocytosis, Aplastic anemia, anemia, neutropenia,
thrombocytopenia
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Antagonize the effects of pentagastrin and histamine during gastric acid
secretion testing. May cause false-negative results in skin tests using
allergenic extracts. Should be avoided for 24 hours before either tests.
May cause an increase in serum transaminases and serum creatinine.

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this

medication
May cause drowsiness or dizziness, be cautious while participating in
activities that require alertness until the response to the drug is known.
Advise pt to avoid foods that may cause an increase in GI irritation.
Inform pt that increase in fiber, fluid, and exercise may minimize
constipation. Advise pt to report onset of black tarry stools, fever, sore
throat, diarrhea, dizziness, rash, confusion, or hallucinations to health
care professional promptly.
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
Assess CNS med? Decrease in abdominal pain,
If pt is experiencing CNS side effects heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour
especially confusion, epigastric or abdominal stomach
pain, or has frank or occult blood in stool
emesis or gastric aspirate, report promptly