NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Trade Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Name Name Antidepressant 20 mg po QD
escitalopram lexapro
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
unknown 1-4 wk unknown 10-20 mg once daily

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

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

(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the Hypersensitivity
CNS. Anti depressant action
Common side effects
Insomnia, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness,
fatigue

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
None for this pt
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
monitor mood changes and level of anxiety
assess for suicidal tendencies
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
None found
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Do not stop abruptly, do not double dose, avoid
alcohol and other CNS depressants
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Increases sense of well
being, renewed interest in
Suicidal statements or mood changes surroundings. May take
1-4 weeks