NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Name Zocor HMG-CoA reductase 40 mg PO QHS
Simvastatin inhibitor
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
unknown unknown unknown 5-80 mg q day

Why is your patient getting this medication For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions
High cholesterol N/A

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

(Why med ordered)
Inhibit an enzyme, HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for
catalyzing an early step in the synthesis of cholesterol. Indicated
as adjunct therapy in the management of primary
hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipedemias.
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Contraindicated in pt’s with hypersensitivity, sepsis, acute hypotention,
major surgery, trauma, severe metabolic disturbances, endocrine or
electrolyte disorders, uncontrolled seizures, active liver disease. Use
cautiously in pt’s with liver disease or significant alcohol abuse
Common side effects
Abdominal cramps, constipation. Diarrhea, flatus, heartburn, and rashes

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
St. Johns wart may decrease effectiveness, grapefruit juice can
increase blood levels
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Obtain dietary history.
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Liver fnxion test, if AST levels increase 3x above normal, therapy should
be discontinued. May also cause increased alkaline phosphatase and
bilirubin levels. May cause thyroid function test abnormalities.
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Take medication as directed, do not consume copious amounts of
grapefruit juice, medication should be used in conjunction with diet
restrictions. Contact provider if unexplained muscle pain occurs.
Emphasize the importance of follow up exams
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Decreased serum LDL, VLDL,
Hypersensitivity reaction triglycerides, and total
cholesterol levels. Increase in
HDL levels