NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Albuterol Combivent bronchodilators 103 mcg INH TID

Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range

60-90 min 5-15 min 3-6 hr 2 inhalations q 4-6 hrs or 2 inhalations 15 minutes before
exercise
Why is your patient getting this medication For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions
Hypoxia N/A

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

(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
binds to beta 2 adrenergic receptors in airway smooth muscle, Excess inhaler use may lead to tolerance and paradoxical bronchospasm
leading to activation of adenyl cyclase and increased levels of
cAMP. Increases in cAMP kinases, which inhibit the Common side effects
phosphorylation of myosin and decrease intracellular calcium, nervousness, restlessness, tremor, headache, chest pain, palpitations
Decreased calcium relaxes smooth muscle airways with subsequent
bronchodilation. Used as a bronchodilator.

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
Risk of hypokalemia increased with concurrent use of
potassium-losing diuretics, Use with caffeine increases
stimulant effect.
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Assess lung sounds, pulse, and blood pressure before
administration and during peak of medication. Note
amount, color, and character of sputum produced
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
May cause transient ↓ in serum potassium concentrations with
nebulization or higher-than-recommended doses
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Instruct patient to contact health care professional immediately if
shortness of breath is not relieved by medication or is accompanied by
diaphoresis, dizziness, palpitations, or chest pain
Inform patient that albuterol may cause an unusual or bad taste and to
rinse mouth after use
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Prevention or relief of bronchospasm
Observe for paradoxical bronchospasm
(wheezing). If condition occurs, withhold
medication and notify physician or other
health care professional immediately