NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Trade Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Name Name antianxiety agents, 5mg IV 1000, 1400, 1800, 2200; q 4 hr
Diazepam Valium anticonvulsants,
sedative/hypnotics,
skeletal muscle
relaxants (centrally
acting)
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
15-30 min 1-5 min 15-60 min For IV administration do not dilute or mix with any other
drug. If direct IV push is not feasible, administer IV push
into tubing as close to insertion site as possible.
Continuous infusion is not recommended because of
precipitation in IV fluids and absorption of diazepam into
infusion bags and tubing. Injection may cause burning and
venous irritation; avoid small veins
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Depresses the CNS, probably by potentiating GABA, an Some products contain alcohol, propylene glycol, or
inhibitory neurotransmitter tartrazineand should be avoided in patients with known
Produces skeletal muscle relaxation by inhibiting spinal hypersensitivity or intolerance. Hypersensitivity, Pre-
polysynaptic afferent pathways existing CNS depression, Uncontrolled severe pain.
Has anticonvulsant properties due to enhanced presynaptic Alcohol , antidepressants , antihistamines , and opioid
inhibition. analgesics --concurrent use results in additive CNS
Muscle spasms, anxiety relief depression. Concomitant use of kava, valerian, or
chamomile can increase CNS depression.
Common side effects
Dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
none
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Hepatic and renal function and CBC should be evaluated
periodically throughout course of prolonged therapy
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Instruct patient to take medication exactly as directed and
not to take more than prescribed or increase dose if less
effective after a few weeks without checking with health
care professional. Abrupt withdrawal of diazepam may
cause insomnia, unusual irritability or nervousness, and
seizures. Advise patient that sharing of this medication
may be dangerous
○ Medication may cause drowsiness, clumsiness, or
unsteadiness. Advise patient to avoid driving or
other activities requiring alertness until response to
medication is known.
 ○ Caution patient to avoid taking alcohol or other
CNS depressants concurrently with this medication
○ Advise patient to notify health care professional if
pregnancy is suspected or planned
○ Emphasize the importance of follow-up
examinations to determine effectiveness of the
medication

Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation

(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
Monitor blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory med? • Decrease in anxiety level.
rate prior to and periodically throughout therapy CNS depression Full therapeutic
and frequently during IV therapy, Assess IV site antianxiety effects occur
frequently during administration; diazepam may after 1-2 wk of therapy
cause phlebitis and venous thrombosis, Prolonged • Decreased recall of
high-dose therapy may lead to psychological or surgical or diagnostic
physical dependence. Restrict amount of drug procedures
available to patient. Observe depressed patients • Control of seizures
closely for suicidal tendencies, Anxiety: Assess • Decrease in muscle
degree of anxiety and level of sedation (ataxia, spasms
dizziness, slurred speech) prior to and • Decreased
periodically throughout therapy, Assess muscle tremulousness and
spasm, associated pain, and limitation of more rational ideation
movement prior to and throughout therapy when used for alcohol
withdrawal