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 Aldactone Potassium-sparing 25 mg PO Q day
Spironolactone diuretics
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
2-3 days Unknown 2-3 days 25-400 mg per day as a single dose or 2-4 divided doses

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

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

(Why med ordered)
Causes loss of sodium bicarbonate and calcium while saving
potassium and hydrogen ions. Indicated to counteract potassium
loss caused by other diuretics. Used with other agents to treat
edema or hypertension.
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hypersensitivity and hyperkalemia, Use cautiously in patients with
Diabetes mellitus (increased risk of hyperkalemia, presence of age related
renal dysfunction); history of gout or kidney stones.
Common side effects
hyperkalemia

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
Potassium supplements increase risk of hyperkalemia
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Moniter I&O
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Serum potassium levels should be evaluated before and routinely during
therapy. Withhold drug and notify physician or other health care
professional if pt becomes hyperkalemic
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Caution pt to avoid salt substitutes and foods that contain high levels of
potassium or sodim unless prescribed by health care professional. May
cause dizziness. Consult health care provider before using and OTC cold
or cough medicines or apetite suppressants because these could increase
blood pressure. Notify health care provider if muscle weakness or
cramps, fatigue, or severe n/v/d occurs. Teach the proper technique for
measuring bp. Reinforce need for restricted sodium intake, moderation of
ETOH intake and smoking cessation
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Increased diuresis while maintaining
Hyperkalemia acceptable serum potassium