NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Dantrium Dantrolene Skeletal muscle 25 mg po 0900; daily
relaxants 50 mg 2100; q HS
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
unknown 1 wk 6-12 hr N/A

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

(Why med ordered)
Acts directly on skeletal muscle, causing relaxation by
decreasing calcium release from sarcoplasmic reticulum
in muscle cells. Prevents intense catabolic process
associated with malignant hyperthermia.
Muscle relaxant for spasms, constipation
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Women, pts > 35 yrs (increased risk of hepatotoxicity)
Common side effects
Drowsiness, muscle weakness, hepatotoxicity, diarrhea

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
none
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Monitor liver function frequently during therapy. Liver
function abnormalities (increased AST, ALT, alkaline
phosphate, bilirubin, GGTP) may require discontinuation of
therapy
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Advise pt not to take more medication than the amount
prescribed to minimize risk of hepatotoxicity and other side
effects. If a dose is missed, do not take unless remembered
within 1 hr. Do not double doses. May cause dizziness,
drowsiness, visual disturbances, and muscle weakness.
Advise pt to avoid driving and other activities requiring
alertness until response to drug is known. Advise pt to avoid
taking other CNS depressants or alcohol concurrently with
this medication. Instruct pt to notify healthcare provider if
rash, itching, yellow eyes or skin color, dark urine or clay-
colored, bloody, or black, tarry stools occur or if nausea,
weakness, fatigue, or diarrhea persists. May require
discontinuation of therapy. Advise pt to wear sunscreen and
protective clothing to prevent photosensitivity reactions.
Emphasize the importance of follow-up exams to check
progress in long-term therapy and blood tests to monitor for
side-effects.
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Assess bowel function periodically. Persistent
diarrhea may warrant discontinuation of
therapy. Assess neuromuscular status and
muscle spasticity before initiating therapy and
periodically during it course to determine
response to therapy.
Assessment
Why would you hold or not give this
med?
Liver function abnormalities.
Disruptive or dangerous side effects.
Evaluation
Check after giving
Relief of muscle spasm within
45 days of initial treatment.