Name of Drugs

Brand Name Demerol

Classification And Mechanism of action opioid analgesics Acts as agonist at specific opioid receptors in the CNS to produce analgesia, euphoria, sedation; the receptors mediating these effects are thought to be the same as those mediating the effects of endogenous opioids (enkephalins, endorphins)

Indication

Side effects

Contraindications

Nursing responsibilities Advise patient to call for assistance when ambulating Advise patient to change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic hypotension. Advise ambulatory patients that nausea and vomiting may be decreased by lying down. Lie down immediately if light-headedness or dizziness occurs. Avoid driving and other potentially hazardous activities until reaction to drug is known

Monitoring parameters Severity of pain Respirations Level of consciousness I&O

Moderate to severe pain

Nausea constipation dizziness drowsiness sedation hypotension vomiting

Hypersensitivity Pregnancy Lactation

Generic Name Meperidine Hydrochloride

Name of Drugs

Brand Name Demerol

Classification And Mechanism of action opioid analgesics Binds to opiate receptors in the CNS. Alters the perception of and response to painful stimuli, while producing generalized CNS depression

Indication

Side effects

Contraindications

Nursing responsibilities Advise patient to call for assistance when ambulating Advise patient to change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic hypotension. Advise ambulatory patients that nausea and vomiting may be decreased by lying down. Lie down immediately if light-headedness or dizziness occurs. Avoid driving and other potentially hazardous activities until reaction to drug is known

Monitoring parameters Severity of pain Continually monitor respirations, bp, and pulse for excessive CNS depression which would be evident by respirations Alteration in level of consciousness

Moderate to severe pain

Nausea constipation dizziness drowsiness sedation hypotension vomiting

Hypersensitivity Pregnancy Lactation

Generic Name Meperidine Hydrochloride Dose 25 mg/1 mL Route IVP