Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Arielle Bass
Jacksonville University
Weakness
Stomach upset
Cardiac arrhythmias
Possible decrease in sodium as well
o Monitor for neurological changes
Thiazides
Hydrochlorothiazide
Usually first line therapy treatment for hypertension
o Less fluid loss than loop diuretics
Potassium wasting
o Monitor for cardiac arrhythmias, weakness
Potassium sparing diuretics
Spironolactone
o Antagonizes aldosterone
Amiloride and triameterene
All of these lead to hyperkalemia
o Cardiac arrhythmias (EKG Monitor!)
o Stomach upset
o Weakness
Also can cause dehydration
o Tented skin
o Poor capillary refill
o Dry mucous membranes
o Altered LOC
o Calcium channel blockers
All end in “dipine” except for verapamil
S/S:
Hypotension* safety
Cardiac arrhythmias
Edema
GI upset
Headache
o Beta blockers
All have “lol” in the name
S/S:
Reflex tachycardia
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Depression
Monitor for possible:
Heart failure and fluid overload!*
NCLEX REVIEW 4
o Others
Mannitol
The number one medication used to decrease elevated ICP or
intraocular pressure
o Effectiveness seen in decreased pressure and symptoms of
ICP elevations (headache, irritability, seizures, etc.)
o Should see increase in renal function!!
Hydralazine
Vasodilator
S/S:
o Tachycardia
o Angina
o Edema
o Dyspnea
o Tremors
o Headache
HYPOTENSION
Nitroprusside
Any medication with “nitro” in the name is a vasodilator
o Causes hypotension
o Hopefully alleviates angina (otherwise MI)
NCLEX REVIEW 5
Antilipidemia drugs
o The labs
Triglycerides
Want less than 149
Cholesterol
Dietary intake should be less than 300 mg per day
Want cholesterol less than 200
HDLs
Want greater than 60!
Good cholesterol
LDLs
Want less than 100
o Drugs:
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (a.k.a. the statins!)
All have “statin” in the name
S/S:
o Muscle/joint pain
o H/A
o Fatigue
o Myopathy
o Rhabdomyolysis****
Can cause renal failure
o Liver damage
Do not give with
o Erythromycin
o Immunosuppressants
o Fibric acid agents
o Grapefruit juice
Give with:
o Evening meal
Bile acid sequestrants
Excretes cholesterol in stool
Take before meals with fluids*
S/S:
o GI s/s
o Abdominal pain
o Yellowing of skin/sclera ***
Drugs:
o Cholestyramine
Do not take with food!**
Increased risk for bleeding
NCLEX REVIEW 6
o Excessive sweating
o Tachycardia
o High BP
o Precipitating factors
o Physical exertion
o Emotional excitement (I.E. Stress)
o Pain subsides when these factors are alleviated
Usually within 5 to 10 minutes
o Types of angina
o Stable
Predictable frequency, intensity, and duration
Pain relieved by rest
o Unstable
More frequent, intense episodes
Occur even during rest
Type of acute coronary syndrome
o Vasospastic/Prinzmetal’s
Caused by spasms of coronary arteries that impair oxygenation
May or may not be related to atherosclerosis
Occurs during rest or unpredictably
o Silent
Absence of chest pain
Asymptomatic despite occlusion
Risk for sudden death or MI
o Angina looks like heart attack or other problems
o Not often fatal
o Rule out GI or pulmonary origins
o Nonpharmacological treatment of angina:
o Lifestyle modification:
Limit alcohol
Eliminate high saturated fat and cholesterol from diet
Keep cholesterol and lipid levels in range
Avoid tobacco
Monitor BP
Exercise regularly
Monitor weight
Monitor glucose levels
Limit salt intake
NCLEX REVIEW 9
o Organic nitrates
Good for terminating an occurring episode of
angina
Long-acting doses can prevent future episodes
Dilates veins=reduces blood return to heart
(decreased preload)
Leads to decreased CO and lower oxygen
demand
Dilates coronary arteries=increases blood return to
heart muscle
Beneficial in treating vasospastic angina
episodes
Mechanism of action
Forms nitric acid (vasodilator) in vascular
smooth muscle
Relaxes arterial and venous smooth muscle
o Two types of organic nitrates:
Long acting
I.E. Isosorbide dinitrate
o Decreases frequency/intensity of
episodes
Can also be used for symptoms of HF
Develop tolerance over time (can rapidly
decrease with withholding of medication)
o I.E. removing transdermal patch for
several hours or not giving night-
time dose of oral drug
o At night, decreased oxygen demands
for heart=fewer angina episodes
Short acting
I.E. Nitroglycerin (Prototype)
o Quickly stops occurring episode or
one about to occur
o Can be given:
Sublingual
PO-prophylaxis only
Lingual
IV-use glass bottle
Transdermal-prophylaxis
only
NCLEX REVIEW 11
Topical-use gloves
Extended release-prophylaxis
only
o If angina not respond to medication
within 10 to 15 minutes, may be MI
o Cover IV fluid to avoid exposure to
light
o Adverse effects:
Flushing
Headache (from dilated BV)
Reflex tachycardia (give beta
blocker)
Orthostatic hypotension
Circulatory collapse
Syncope
o Do not give to patients with:
Hypotension
Head trauma
Pericardial tamponade (fluid
in pericardium)
Constrictive pericarditis
(Heart cannot raise BP with
vasodilation)
Glaucoma (not extended
release)
Dehydration
o Do not give with:
Viagra, Levitra, Cialis (drops
BP)
Alcohol (drops BP)
Antihypertensive drugs
(drops BP)
Hawthorn (drops BP)
o May increase levels of:
Urinary catecholamines
o Treat severe hypotension with IV
normal saline
o Beta-adrenergic antagonists (beta blockers)
Prevent stable angina pain (prophylaxis)
Decreases HR and contractility=decreases CO
NCLEX REVIEW 12
o AV heart block
o Cardiogenic shock
o HF
o Severe hypotension (give atropine)
Be careful with:
o Use with CCBs (excessive cardiac
suppression)
o Digoxin (AV heart block)
o Antihypertensive medications
(further BP drop)
o Anticholinergics (decreased
absorption in GI tract)
Increases the following lab values:
o Uric acid (gout)
o Lipids
o K
o Creatinine
o Antinuclear antibody
o Calcium channel blockers (CCB)
Used for stable angina with patients that do not
tolerate beta blockers
Can combine this class with others for persistent
angina
Dilates arterial vessels=decreases BP and CO
Can decrease HR and dilate coronary arteries
Can be used for:
HTN
Dysrhythmias
Angina pain
Vasospastic angina
Prototype: Diltiazem (Cardizem, Cartia XT, etc.)
Useful with atrial dysrhythmias and HTN
Monitor continuously on IV
Adverse effects:
o Vasodilation
Headache
Dizziness
Edema in ankles/feet
o Abrupt discontinuation
NCLEX REVIEW 14
Angina episode
Do not use with patients with:
o AV heart block
o Sick sinus syndrome
o Severe hypotension
o Bleeding aneurysm
o Intracranial surgery
o Renal/liver impairment
Do not use with:
o Other cardiovascular drugs
Complete heart block (give
Calcium chloride)
HF
Dysrhythmias
Increases levels of digoxin
Increased hypotensive effect
o St. John’s wort and ginseng
(decreased use)
o Garlic, hawthorn, goldenseal
(increase hypotensive effect)
For overdose:
o Atropine
o Vasopressor for hypotension (I.E.
dopamine)
o Ranolazine (Ranexa)
Prevents future angina episodes (does not stop
current attack)
Used for chronic angina that cannot be managed by
other classes
Shifts metabolic function of heart muscle
Heart uses glucose for energy instead of
fatty acids
Decreases metabolic rate and oxygen
demand
Does not affect BP or HR much
Adverse effects:
Dizziness
Nausea
Constipation
NCLEX REVIEW 15
Headache
Prolonged QT interval
Bradycardia
Hypotension
Acute coronary syndrome
o Collection of symptoms resulting from sudden occlusion of coronary artery
o Usually from piece of plaque entering systemic circulation and adherence
of platelets to location where plaque came from
o Two types:
o Unstable angina
Thrombus not completely occluding coronary artery
Extreme chest pain
Goals
o Relieve chest pain
Nitrates
Morphine
o Administer antiplatelet drugs to prevent clot enlargement
Aspirin
Clopidogrel (See below)
o Myocardial infarction (MI)
Thrombus completely occluding coronary artery
Tissue becomes ischemic
Extreme chest pain
Patient will die in 20 minutes unless blood supply restored
Tissue necrosis leads to changes in the following labs
o Creatine kinase (CK):
Normal Range: men (5-35 mcg/L); women (5-25
mcg/L)
Initial elevations seen 3-8 hours after MI
Highest 12-24 hours after MI
o CK-MB:
Normal Range: greater than 3-5 % total CK
Initial elevations seen 4 to 6 hours after MI
Highest 10-24 hours after MI
o Erythrocyte sedimentation rate-Takes longer for lab values
to alter; lasts longest
Normal Range: men (15-20 mm/hr); women (20-30
mm/hr)
Initial elevations seen 2-3 days after MI
NCLEX REVIEW 16
Anticoagulants, antiplatelets
Hemostasis
o Stopping of blood flow
Occurs once clot is formed and no risk for hemorrhage
o Protects body from external/internal injury
o Balance between blood fluidity and coagulation
o Involves use of clotting factors
o Lab values associated with coagulation disorders: (normal values depend on
individual patient)
Activated clotting time
Used to monitor high-dose heparin therapy and for surgical
procedures
Normal values: 70-180 seconds; 400-500 seconds for coronary
bypass surgery
High values=increased bleeding risk (reduce heparin)
Activated partial thromboplastin (aPTT) *
Used to monitor heparin therapy
Normal values: 25-35 seconds
High values=Increased bleeding risk (reduce heparin)
Bleeding time *
For general diagnosis of coagulation disorders
Normal values: 2-9 minutes in forearm
Prolonged bleeding time related to low platelet count or
anticoagulant therapy
Heparin anti-Xa
Heparin therapy monitoring
Normal values: 0.3-0.7 IU/mL
NCLEX REVIEW 21
o Thrombocytopenia
o Anemia
o Hemorrhage
Prototype: Heparin (unfractionated)
o Amplifies Antithrombin III (protein)
Inactivates thrombin and other enzymes to inhibit
coagulation
o IV administration-immediate
o SQ administration-1 hour onset; never massage site; don’t
draw back syringe
o Indirect thrombin inhibitor
o Naturally found in liver and lining of BV
o Does not dissolve existing clots
o Used for:
DVT
Pulmonary embolism
Unstable angina
Evolving MI
Prevention of thrombosis
o Poorly absorbed in GI tract
o Never use IM route
o Dose calculated by weight, aPTT value, and condition
being used for
o Adverse effects:
Abnormal bleeding
Prolonged aPTT (stop the infusion)
Thrombocytopenia (severity increases 5-10 days
after start of therapy)
Thrombosis
o BLACK BOX WARNING
Epidural or spinal hematomas can form while on
heparin therapy
This can lead to paralysis
Monitor neurological function!!
o Do not use with patients with:
Active internal bleeding
Bleeding disorders
Severe HTN
Recent trauma
NCLEX REVIEW 25
Intracranial hemorrhage
Bacterial endocarditis
o Do not use with:
Other oral anticoagulants (increases bleeding effect)
Drugs that inhibit platelet aggregation
Aspirin and NSAIDs (increases bleeding
effect)
Nicotine-inhibit anticoagulation
Digoxin-inhibit anticoagulation
Tetracyclines-inhibit anticoagulation
Antihistamines -inhibit anticoagulation
Ginger, garlic, green tea, feverfew, ginkgo
(increases bleeding effect)
o Increases the following lab values:
Free fatty acids
AST
ALT
o Decreases the following lab values:
Cholesterol
Triglycerides
o If overdose:
Protamine sulfate IV
Prototype: Warfarin (Coumadin)
o Vitamin K antagonist
o Used for prevention of the following in patients having
hip/knee surgery or with indwelling PICC lines or
prosthetic heart valves:
Stroke
MI
DVT
PE
o Also used as prophylaxis to prevent clots in patients after
MI and A fib
o Takes several days to reach therapeutic effect (oral
administration)
Bound to plasma proteins
o If abnormal bleeding occurs:
Administer IM or SQ Vitamin K
o BLACK BOX WARNING
Can cause fatal bleeding
NCLEX REVIEW 26
Effectiveness of drug
dependent on metabolic
activation by CYP 450
enyzmes
Poor metabolizers=less
therapeutic effect
Increased cardiovascular
effects
o Do not use with patients with:
Active bleeding
o Do not use with:
Anticoagulants-increases
bleeding risk
Other antiplatelet drugs-
increases bleeding risk
Thrombolytic drugs-increases
bleeding risk
NSAIDs-increases bleeding
risk
Aspirin -increases bleeding
risk
Barbiturates-increased
anticoagulant properties
Rifampin-increased
anticoagulant properties
Carbamazepine-increased
anticoagulant properties
Azole antifungals-decrease
antiplatelet function
Protease inhibitors-decrease
antiplatelet function
Erythromycin-decrease
antiplatelet function
Verapamil-decrease
antiplatelet function
Feverfew, green tea, ginkgo,
fish oil, ginger, garlic-
increases bleeding risk
Prasugrel
Ticagrelor
NCLEX REVIEW 30
Ticlopidine
Adverse effects:
Bleeding
Abdominal pain
Dizziness
Headache
Increased clotting time
GI bleeding
Angina
Blood dyscrasias
o Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptors on surface of
platelets
Prevent thrombi in patients with:
Recent MI
Stroke
PCI
IV administration only
Medications:
Abciximab (ReoPro)
Eptifibatide (Integrilin)
Tirofiban (Aggrastat)
Adverse effects:
Dyspepsia
Dizziness
Pain at injection site
Hypotension
Bradycardia
Bleeding
Hemorrhage
Thrombocytopenia
o Drugs for intermittent claudication
Intermittent claudication
Pain/cramping in lower legs
Increased with exercise
Symptom of PVD
Work by increasing flexibility and decreasing
viscosity of RBCs
NCLEX REVIEW 31
RBC
Urinalysis
ABGs
aPTT
aPT
INR
Bleeding time
o Teach patient S/S of bleeding
Increased risk up to 2-4 days post-therapy
Avoid invasive procedures during therapy and 8
hours after
Ends in “lase” with the exception of streptokinase
Adverse effects:
o Superficial bleeding at injection sites
o Allergic reactions
o Internal bleeding
o Intracranial hemorrhage
o HTN
Prototype: Alteplase (Activase)
o Identical to human tPA
o Converts plasminogen to plasmin to dissolve clots
o Restores patency in IV lines
o Must be given within 12 hours of MI onset and within 3
hours of thrombotic stroke to be effective
o Adverse effects:
Bleeding
Spontaneous ecchymoses
Hematomas
Epistaxis
Intracranial bleeding
o Do not use with patients with:
Active internal bleeding
Hx of stroke within three months
Hx of head injury within three months
Recent trauma or surgery
Uncontrolled HTN
Intracranial neoplasm
Arteriovenous malformation
o Do not use with:
NCLEX REVIEW 33
Antipsychotics
o Classic/Typical
Known for EPS and anticholinergic side effects
EPS
o Dystonia
o Tremors
o Like Parkinson’s
Anticholinergic (Monitor for anticholinergic crisis in patient!
o Can’t see
o Can’t pee
o Can’t spit
o Can’t poop
*Antidote for anticholinergic crisis is physostigmine*
o Stop medication causing reaction
Haloperidol
EPS signs and symptoms
NCLEX REVIEW 35
Chlorpromazine
Anticholinergic signs and symptoms (like antihistamines)
Fluphenazine (Prolixin)
This medication and Haloperidol can be given via IM injection for
long term compliance
o Use Z track method in gluteal muscle
o Do not massage site
o Rotate sites
They decrease positive signs of psychosis
Hallucinations
Aggression
Both can cause excessive lethargy and sexual side effects
Impact dopamine levels
Weight gain sometimes common
Photosensitivity
o Atypical antipsychotics
Half of them end in “apine”
Clozapine (Clozaril)
Agranulocytosis (Monitor for infection)
Lots of weight gain
Risperidone (Risperdal)
Long term compliance IM injection
Upper outer quadrant of gluteus maximus
DO NOT Z TRACK
This class does not cause as much sexual dysfunction or negative
symptoms (blunted affect, etc.)
Biggest side effects:
o Excessive weight gain
o Diabetes
o Cardiac arrhythmias
o METABOLIC SYNDROME
o Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
From antipsychotics
Common S/S:
Muscle rigidity ***
Fever
Elevated CPK
Rhabdomyolysis
Dysthymias
Respiratory or cardiac arrest
Stop medication causing it and never take again.
NCLEX REVIEW 36
Supportive treatment
Administer dantrolene *** ANTIDOTE
o Metabolic Syndrome
Diabetes plus CVD
BMI >25
Triglycerides >150
HDL <40 (this is the good cholesterol)
Elevated BP
o No medications interact well with alcohol!***
Delirium tremens
HTN
Risk for respiratory depression when mixed with alcohol, barbiturates
Paradoxical reaction to benzos can occur:
Agitation
Emotional lability
Safety risk:
Drowsiness
Increased irritability
Feelings of isolation, depression
Benzos are used for the following reasons:
Anxiety reduction
Promoting sleep
o Temazepam used for elderly
Shorter half life
Muscle relaxation
Prevent seizures
o Diazepam and lorazepam used for status epilepticus
Produce amnesia
o When stop medications, rebound insomnia
o Midazolam (Versed)
Used for surgery!
Antidote for overdose is flumazenil ***
o Other alternative anxiolytic medications
Clonidine
Alpha-2 agonist
Hydroxine (Vistaril)
OTC
Buspirone
o Sedative-hypnotics
Often cause rebound REM
Cause:
Drowsiness
Dependency
CNS depression
Benzos and barbiturates can be used
Other medications that can be used:
Chloral hydrate
Zolpidem (Ambien)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Melatonin
NCLEX REVIEW 38
Trazedone
o Antidepressant
o Priapism**
Quetiapine
o Antipsychotic
Stimulants (amphetamines)
o S/S:
Tremors
Irritability
Nervousness
Tachycardia
HTN
o Given for:
ADHD
Methylphenidate, amphetamine
o Give 30 minutes before meals and early in the day
o Monitor for:
Paradoxical hyperactivity
Like hyped up on caffeine
NCLEX REVIEW 39
Narcolepsy
Falling asleep at odd times
Medications:
o Modafinil
o Methylphenidate
Obesity
Give anorexiants
o Dextroamphetamine
o Dexatrim
Reversal of respiratory distress
Caffeine
Theophylline
Anesthesia
o Local vs. General
Local
Do not lose consciousness
Creams, nerve blocks, epidural, spinals
o With spinal anesthesia
Have them lay flat for at least 2 hours
Drink fluids
If headache, may need blood patch!
Benzocaine and lidocaine!!
Use with epinephrine
General
Lose consciousness
NCLEX REVIEW 40
Balanced anesthesia
o Decreases amount of one medication given
o Versed often given with this
Monitor for respiratory depression
o Potential for hyperactivity and delirium
o May use inhaled agents and barbiturates
o May also given neuromuscular blockers
Antidepressants
o Tricyclics
End in “ptyline” or “pramine” most of the time
Examples:
Amitryptyline
Imipramine
Doxepin
o Used for elderly
ANTICHOLINERGIC
Sedation properties
Possible psychosis and increased risk for suicide
o MAOI
NCLEX REVIEW 41
Examples:
Phenelzine
Selegiline hydrochloride
Need a two week clearance time between this and other antidepressants
Low tyramine diet to avoid hypertensive crisis
Avoid:
o Aged cheeses
o Wines
o Smoked meats or sausages
o Caffeine
Do not take with:
Meperidine (Demerol)
o Hyperpyrexia-high fever
Antihypertensives
o Extreme hypotension
o SSRI
Examples:
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Sertraline (Zoloft)
S/S:
Sexual dysfunction
Weight gain
Nervousness/insomnia
SUICIDE!
Monitor for S/S of serotonin syndrome (stop medication if happens!)
Altered LOC
Myoclonus
Hyperreflexia**
Sweating
Withdrawal S/S: (taper drug down to avoid)
Nausea
H/A
Dizziness
Dysphoria
Tremor
o Other antidepressants
Bupropion
Used also for smoking cessation
Do not give to seizure patients
Increases BP
Trazodone
NCLEX REVIEW 42
Priapism
Mood Stabilizers
o Lithium
Adverse effects:
N/V
Polyuria
Tremor***
o As increased toxicity, worst tremor
Hypothyroidism
Altered LOC with increased toxicity
o Seizures
NCLEX REVIEW 43
Monitor:
Thyroid function
EKG
o Carbamazepine
Do not give with valproic acid!
S/S:
N/V
Agranulocytosis
Sedation
Anorexia
Monitor:
EKG
Thyroid
o Valproic Acid
Monitor liver function
S/S:
Thrombocytopenia
o Bleeding risk
Tremors
o Lamotrigine
Can stop suddenly but must titrate up slowly to prevent Stevens Johnson
Syndrome (bad rash)
o Gabapentin
Epileptic drugs
o Work by one of four mechanisms:
Stimulate GABA
Examples:
o Barbiturates
“Barbital”
Can cause agranulocytosis
Watch for bleeding
Monitor liver and kidney function
NCLEX REVIEW 44
o Benzodiazepines
End in “apam”
For overdose-Flumazenil!!**
o Others:
Gabapentin
Mood stabilizer
CNS Depression!
Antagonizing glutamate
Delaying sodium influx
Phenytoin
o CNS depression
o Gingival hyperplasia
o Cardiac dysrhythmias
o Hypotension
o Monitor:
Liver and renal function
Bleeding disorders
Delaying calcium influx (Succinimides)
Ethosuximide
o Lupups
o Leukopenia
Monitor for infection
o Lethargy
o Suicidal thoughts
Neuromuscular disorders
o Centrally acting muscle relaxants
Cyclobenzprine (Flexeril)
Works on calming muscle excitability
CNS depression!
Liver toxicity
o Monitor liver function
Anticholinergic
NCLEX REVIEW 45
o Direct-acting antispasmodics
Dantrolene
Used as antidote for malignant hyperthermia
Prevents release of calcium ions
Liver toxicity*
Muscle weakness
Drowsiness
o Nondepolarizing blockers
Tubocuraine
Blocks acetylcholine to relax muscles during surgery
o Depolarizing blockers
Succinylcholine
Blocks acetylcholine
Can cause:
o Persistent paralysis
o Malignant hyperthermia
Parkinson’s Disease
o Low dopamine, high acetylcholine
Causes tremors, dystonia, dementia, etc.
o Drug classes:
Dopaminergics
Levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet)
o Give with meals (N/V risk)
NCLEX REVIEW 46
o Comtan
Can use decreased dose of other PD drugs
Anticholinergics
Atropine!
o Atropine is the antidote for a cholinergic crisis (see
Alzheimer’s section)
Benztropine (Cogentin)
This class reduces tremors and rigidity
Do not give with:
o Urinary or GI obstruction
o Dysthymias
o Narrow angle glaucoma**
Elderly can become delirious from anticholinergics*
Anticholinergic Crisis S/S: (Treat with physostigmine)
o Confusion/hallucinations
o Dilated pupils
o Blurred vision
o Fever
o Tachycardia
o Decreased bowel sounds and urinary retention
o Seizures
o Death
Nursing interventions for anticholinergics:
o Sugarless hard candy/drinks for dry mouth
o Take with food
o Avoid alcohol (always…)
o Photosensitivity
o Never stop suddenly
Alzheimer’s Disease
o Low Ach
o Progressive memory loss
o Medications do not cure but slow down symptoms
o Cholinesterase inhibitors (raise Ach levels)
NCLEX REVIEW 48
Donpezil (Aricept)
Rivastigmine
o S/S to monitor for:
Hypotension (safety!)
LOC change
o Tips:
Take with food or milk
Monitor for signs of cholinergic crisis (give atropine!)***
S-salivation
L-lacrimation (excessive tearing of eyes)
U-urination
D-diarrhea
G-gastric upset
E-emesis (vomiting)
Will also see BRADYCARDIA and increased muscle weakness with
cholinergic crisis
o Memantine
NMDA receptor antagonist (blocks glutamate)
Multiple sclerosis
o Degeneration of neurons
o Medications for this condition ALWAYS have the potential adverse effect of
infection******
NCLEX REVIEW 49
o Give:
Immunomodulators
Interferon beta
Glatiramer acetate
Immunosuppressants
Mitoxantrone
o Chemo drug
So think hair loss, GI upset, blue-green urine, etc.
NCLEX REVIEW 50
Substance abuse
o Opioids
Examples
Heroin
Morphine
Codeine
Causes CNS depression**
Pain relievers**
Overdose S/S: (Give Naloxone (Narcan))
Pinpoint pupils**
Coma
Respiratory depression
Withdrawal S/S:
Sweating
Runny nose/eyes
Dilated pupils
Tachycardia
HTN
Fluids coming out of everywhere and nervous…
o Psychostimulants
Cocaine (CNS stimulation then depression)
S/S:
o Euphoria
o Psychosis
o Tachycardia
o HTN
o Dilated pupils
o Sleep disturbances/anxiety
o Seizures
o Death
Withdrawal
o Sleep disturbances (rebound REM)
o Decreased sex drive
o Depression/suicide
Methamphetamine
S/S:
o Euphoria
o Massive vasoconstriction
o Psychosis
o HTN
o Stroke
NCLEX REVIEW 51
o Tachycardia
o Sweating
Withdrawal:
o Dysphoria
o Cravings
o Sleep deprivation
o Excessive eating
o Depressants
Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines
Alcohol
Withdrawal symptoms
o HTN
o Tachycardia
o Sweating
o Anxiety
o Tremors
o LOC change
o Delirium tremens***
Seizures progressing to death
Give Diazepam or Librium to prevent
Can also give baclofen (decreases spasticity)
Must supplement thiamine with alcohol addiction
o Wernicke and Korsakoff
Medications for alcohol rehab
o Disulfram (Antabuse)
DO NOT DRINK OR SEVERE REACTION
o Naltrexone (ReVia)
Reduces cravings
Monitor liver function
o Acamprosate (Campral)
Increases GABA
o Psychedelics
LSD
o Anabolic Steroids
Testosterone
o Others
Marijuana
S/S:
o Apathy
NCLEX REVIEW 52
o Dull
o Hypotension
o Bronchitis
o Lung cancer
o Decreased sexual hormones
o In utero effects
Withdrawal:
o Irritability
o Nervousness
o Reduced appetite
o Weight loss
o Hypothermia
Nicotine
Found in cigarettes (with lots of other bad things)
Medications to stop smoking:
o Varenicline (Chantix)
Can smoke but blocks nicotine
Take after eating with water
o Buproprion (Zyban)
Antidepressant*
Take with food
Blocks withdrawal symptoms
Anticholinergic S/S and norepinephrine
(nervousness, appetite suppression)
Do not give with:
Seizure disorders
Eating disorders
Heavy alcohol use
Monitor BP*****
o Patches:
Apply to torso and rotate sites
Keep in place 24 hours
Adjust dose by cutting patch
DO NOT SMOKE
Monitor for:
Redness
N/V (too high dose)
o Gum:
Chew to release nicotine then put in cheek
DO NOT CHEW LIKE CHEWING GUM
o Nasal Spray
NCLEX REVIEW 53
Do not inhale
Localized S/S
o
Reproduction
o Female
FSH and LH
Affects ovaries
Estrogen and progesterone levels
o When estrogen decreases, progesterone increases to
help maintain lining and prepare for implantation.
o Estrogen
Helps to protect heart and strengthen bones
Oral contraceptives
Prevent pregnancy
Decrease acne
Decrease ovarian cysts, dysmenorrhea, and iron deficiency
anemia
Most oral contraceptives have progestin or estradiol in
name**
o Ethinyl estradiol with norethindrone
S/S:
Breast tenderness
Fatigue
Headache
Weight gain
Photosensitivity
Cardiovascular!
o Stroke risk!
o DVT!
o PE!
Monitor for abdominal pain
Potential sign of ectopic pregnancy
Progestin-only drugs
o Thickens mucous to prevent implantation
o Risk for prolonged bleeding, amenorrhea
o Can be given for dysfunctional uterine bleeding
o Monitor for:
Severe chest pain, dyspnea (PE!)
Photosensitivity
NCLEX REVIEW 54
Sperm production
LH
Produces testosterone
o Matures sex organ and secondary sex characteristics
o Can be used to treat breast cancer
o Monitor for:
Edema
Liver damage
Acne
Irritation (roid rage)
Elevated cholesterol
Increased risk for MI
o Don’t give:
Past MI history
Past Liver issues
Hypercalcemia
o If topical testosterone
Do not let children or women come in
contact with it
Male infertility
Can give antiestrogens
o Tamoxifen
Erectile dysfunction
Seen with:
o Diabetes
o Kidney disease
o HTN
o Medications
o Depression
Treat with:
o Sildenafil
If longer than 4 hour erection, then ED!!
Biggest S/S:
Hypotension
Benign prostatic hypertrophy
Natural enlargement of prostate
o Increased frequency, hesitancy, nocturia
Do not give vasoconstrictors!!
o No caffeine, alcohol, alpha agonists
Give alpha blockers to increase urine flow
o Doxazosin
NCLEX REVIEW 56
o Tamsulosin
o S/S:
Sexual dysfunction
Can cause birth defects
Hypotension
Bradycardia and bronchoconstriction in
asthma patients
Takes up to 1 year to work
Labor stages:
o First stage of labor:
Early labor phase-onset of contractions until cervix dilated 3 cm
Lasts 8-12 hours
Contractions last 30-45 seconds and have 5-30 minutes of rest b/w
o Irregular and get progressively stronger
o Felt in lower back
o Water breaks normally during this time
Active labor phase-cervix dilates from 3 cm to 7 cm
Lasts 3-5 hours
Contractions last 45-60 seconds and 3-5 minutes rest b/w
o Stronger
Transition phase-cervix dilates from 7 cm to 10 cm
Lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours
Contractions last 60-90 seconds with 30 seconds to 2 minute rest
b/w
Also have chills, N/V, gas, etc.
o Second stage of labor:
From time of complete dilation until baby is delivered
o Third stage of labor:
Delivery of placenta
If placenta not delivered, risk for hemorrhage (monitor for boggy
fundus)
o Complications:
Placenta previa
Low implantation of placenta in uterus
Bleeding always present and bright red*
Painless*
Abruptio placentae
Placenta peels away from uterine wall
Bleeding sometimes present and dark red*
NCLEX REVIEW 57
Menopause
High alcohol/caffeine intake
Anorexia
Inactivity
Steroid use
Treat with:
Ca supplements and vitamin D
o Calcitriol
Take with food!
o Monitor for:
Liver and renal function
Mg and P
Bisphosphonates
o Alendronate
o Must sit up 30 minutes after taking
o Can cause:
Diarrhea
N/V
Fractures with long use
Estrogen receptor modulators
o raloxifene
o Osteomalacia
Softening of bones
In kids called rickets!
Often related to vitamin D deficiency
S/S:
Muscle weakness
Bowlegs
Bone pain
o Rheumatoid arthritis
Autoimmune disease
Pain and stiffness gets worse throughout day
Symmetric
See positive RA factor and high ESR
Give:
NSAIDs
o Ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.
o Monitor for:
Bleeding
GI upset
Ulcers
NCLEX REVIEW 60
Corticosteroids
o All have “son” in the name
o Monitor for:
Infection
Poor wound healing
Weight gain (buffalo hump!)
GI ulcers
Personality changes
Antirheumatic drugs
o Always think infection!!!!!
o Hydroxychloroquine (antimalarial drug)
Infection risk
Hair loss
Mental changes**
Visual field changes**
o Osteoarthritis
Wear and tear
Slow onset
Stiffness in morning improves
See usually only on one side of body
Give:
NSAIDs
Acetaminophen (only for pain!)
o Monitor liver function!!
Opioids with acetaminophen
o Monitor for constipation
o Ceiling for amount of acetaminophen given daily
o Gout
Uric acid buildup
Red, swollen, puffy joints
Occurs at night
Monitor diet to have low purine!
No organ meats, red wines, anchovies, beans
Give:
NSAIDs
Corticosteroids
Uricosurics
o Allopurinol (hint: low PURINE)
S/S:
Rash
N/V
Retinopathy
Thrombocytopenia**
NCLEX REVIEW 61
o Inflammation!
Natural response, nonspecific
Acute vs. Chronic
S/S:
Swelling
Pain
Warmth
Redness
Loss of function
Paresthesia
Treat using:
RICE
o Rest
o Ice
o Compression
o Elevation (above level of heart)
NSAIDs
o Block breakdown of arachidonic acid to prevent
inflammation
Aspirin
o Tinnitus****
o GI bleeding
o Headache
o Reyes Syndrome!
Rash
Do NOT give aspirin to children unless Kawasaki
disease is present
Cox 2 inhibitors
o Celecoxib
Risk for MI and stroke
Acetaminophen
o Only works for fever and pain!
Antihistamines
o Anticholinergic*
Corticosteroids
o Risk for Cushing syndrome
o Infection risk***
o Antibiotics
Bacteriostatic
Inhibit growth
Bacteriocidal
Kill
Antibiotic use has led to bacterial resistance and superinfections b/c:
Not finishing prescriptions
NCLEX REVIEW 62
Overuse
Penicillins and Cephalosporins
Penicillins all have “cillin” in the name
o Hypersensitivity reactions
o Aplastic anemia (infection and bleeding risk!**)
Cephalosporins all have “cef” in the name
o Similar s/s to penicillin
o Cross sensitivity to penicillin
o Monitor for skin peeling and potential burns!**
Tetracyclines
Tetracycline
o S/S:
Discoloration of teeth
Birth defects!**
Photosensitivity
o Do not take with:
Milk
Antacids
Macrolides
Erythromycin
o N/V
o Diarrhea
o Superinfection
o Do not give with statins!***
Aminoglycosides
Gentamicin, tobramycin
o S/S:
Ototoxic
Renal toxic
o Monitor peak and trough levels
Fluoroquinolones
Ciprofloxin
o S/S
Dysrhthmias
Hepatotoxic
Achilles tendon rupture**
o Do not give with warfarin
Sulfonamides
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
o S/S:
Urine crystal formation
Agranulocytosis
Aplastic anemia
Photosensitivity
Hyperkalemia
NCLEX REVIEW 63
o Tuberculosis
Take drugs 6-12 months
Use multiple drugs (all affect liver!!**)
Isoniazid
o Rotate IM sites
o Adverse effects
Numbness of hands and feet
Rash
Fever
Neurotoxicity
Paresthesia of feet and hands
Convulsions
Optic neuritis
Dizziness
Coma
Memory loss
Psychoses
o BLACK BOX WARNING
Hepatotoxicity
Would appear in first 1 to 3 months
Monitor for jaundice
Fatigue
High liver panel (tested monthly)
Loss of appetite
Higher risk in elderly and those with daily alcohol
intake
o Do not give to patients with:
Liver impairment
o Do not give with:
Rifampin
Red-orange urine**
o Fungal infections
Systemic vs. local
Usually see systemic in immunosuppressed
Medications:
Nystatin
o S/s:
Skin irritation
N/V
Diarrhea
NCLEX REVIEW 64
o Younger than 2
Have them take showers, not baths
o Antivirals
Difficult to treat viruses
Mutate rapidly
HIV
Therapy begins when CD4 count below 200
Herpes
Acyclovir
Influenza
Amantadine
o Decreases severity of symptoms
Do not give vaccine if:
o Egg allergy**
o Hx of Guillian Barre
Ascending paralysis
Hepatitis
For A and B
o Immunoglobulins
For C
o Interferon
o Ribavirin
NCLEX REVIEW 66
Respiratory drugs
5-6 minutes of no breathing can lead to death
Upper respiratory tract (URT)
o Made up of:
Nose
Nasal cavity
Pharynx
Paranasal sinuses
o Actions prior to lungs:
Warms
Humidifies
Cleans
Traps pathogens and particles
Mucous membrane with ciliated epithelium
o Sweeps pathogens posteriorly=patient swallows when
coughs
Allergic rhinitis
o “Hay fever”
o Inflammation of nasal mucosa
Exposure to allergens
Allergen is anything that is seen as foreign by the body
Hard to tell what allergen triggered response
Genetic predisposition in some
One allergen can sensitize a patient to another allergen
Common allergens:
o Pollen
o Mold spores
o Dust mites
o Certain foods
o Animal dander
Worsened by nonallergenic factors:
o Chemical fumes
o Smoke
o Air pollutants
o Not life threatening
Can experience at specific times of year (I.E. when pollen count high)
Spring and Fall
“Seasonal allergies”
“Perennial” allergic rhinitis
NCLEX REVIEW 67
o Histamine:
Chemical mediator of inflammation
Released from mast cells and basophils
Causes of binding to H1 receptors:
Itching
Increased mucus secretion
Nasal congestion
Bronchoconstriction (anaphylaxis)
Edema (anaphylaxis)
Hypotension (anaphylaxis)
H2 receptors relate to peptic ulcers
o Antihistamines
Selectively block histamine from reaching H1 receptors
Relieves allergic symptoms
Therapeutic use:
Allergies
o Sneezing
o Runny nose
o Itching eyes, nose, throat
Most effective when taken prophylactically to prevent symptoms
Prior to allergy season!!
Limited use in stopping current episodes
Not as effective with long term use
Anticholinergic
Drying of mucous membranes
o Less nasal congestion/tearing
Adverse effects:
Drowsiness (tolerance over time)
Sedation
CNS stimulation in some patients
o Insomnia
o Nervousness
o Tremors
Anticholinergic effects:
o Dry mouth
o Urinary hesitancy
Use cautiously with:
Alcohol (amplify sedation)
CNS depressants (amplify sedation)
NCLEX REVIEW 70
Drowsiness
GI upset
Euphoria
Lack of motor coordination
Seizures
Coma
Do not give to patients with:
Chronic cough from excessive bronchial
secretions
o Asthma
o Smoking
o Emphysema
Do not give with:
MAO-I (excitation, hypotension,
hyperpyrexia)
CNS depressants (Sedation)
Grapefruit juice (Drug toxicity)
Educate on potential for abuse in younger
population
o Benzonatate (Tessalon)
Suppresses the cough reflex
Anesthetizes stretch receptors in lungs
If chewed:
Numbing of mouth and pharynx
Adverse effects:
Sedation
Nausea
Headache
Dizziness
Benylin
Children’s anti-cough syrup
Helps to relieve dry coughs in children under five
Contains glycerol
Consult with doctor if not improve in three days
Consult doctor if:
o Child has allergic reaction to medication
o Child is under three months
o Child is fructose intolerant
Adverse effects:
NCLEX REVIEW 75
o Mild laxative
This is not meant for adults!
o Expectorants and Mucolytics
Increase bronchial secretions (expectorants)
Syrups should be given with full glass of liquid and increased fluid
intake throughout day
Guaifenesin (Mucinex)
o Reduce the thickness/viscosity of bronchial secretions
o Increases mucus flow and excretion via cough
o Best for dry, nonproductive coughs
Still works for productive coughs
o Do not give to children under 6 years if not prescribed
Loosen thick bronchial secretions (mucolytics)
Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
o Directly loosens thick, viscous secretions
Breaks down chemical structure of mucus
Makes it thinner and easier to excrete
o Inhaled/IV
IV dose given as overdose antidote for
acetaminophen toxicity
o Prescription medication
o Used for patients with:
Cystic fibrosis
Chronic bronchitis
o Adverse effects:
Bronchospasm
Smells like rotten eggs
Severe nausea and vomiting (no kidding)
o Horehound
Expectorant action with colds
Available as cough drop
Can be used for:
Asthma
Bronchitis
Whooping cough
Infections
o TB
Bowel disorders
Jaundice
NCLEX REVIEW 76
Wound healing
o Teach patient to:
Increase fluid intake to help mobilize mucus
Monitor pulse and BP
Avoid/eliminate alcohol
Never take with alcohol!!
Not keep medications at bedside
Prevents overdosage if drowsy
Clear nasal passages first
Then give spray
Wait 5-10 minutes before next spray
Spit out excess drainage in mouth
Limit use to 3-5 days
Importance of using single-symptom preparations
If contain acetaminophen, make sure to take only prescribed dose
o Monitor the elderly for dizziness/drowsiness
Increases fall risk!
o Report to health care provider if:
Symptoms worsen
Fever present
Dizziness
Palpitations
Syncope
Change in severity/frequency of cough
SOB with cough
Chest pain with cough
Color/thickness/quantity of mucus
Altered LOC
Any visual changes
Any eye pain
Inability to void
NCLEX REVIEW 77
o Contraction/relaxation regulated by
Sympathetic branch:
Activates beta2-adrenergic receptors
o Relaxation of smooth muscle
o Bronchodilation
Medications:
o Bronchodilators
Parasympathetic branch:
Bronchoconstriction
Medications:
o May cause labored breathing and SOB
Administration of Pulmonary Drugs via Inhalation
o Rapid delivery
o Aerosol
Suspension of minute liquid droplets or fine solid particles suspended in
gas
Advantages:
Delivers drugs to immediate site of action
o Decreases systemic effects
Immediate relief for bronchospasms
o When bronchioles rapidly contract and limit air supply
Also to loosen thick mucus in bronchioles
Disadvantages:
May still produce systemic effects
o Some drug absorption across capillary membrane
I.E. Laughing gas can cause CNS depression via
inhalation route
Precise dose given hard to measure
o Depends on:
Patient’s breathing pattern
Proper use of inhaler
Generally, only 10-50 % of drug reaches lower respiratory tract
Swallowing excess medication in mouth can cause systemic effects
if absorbed in GI tract
o Rinse mouth out to avoid absorption through oral mucosa
Several devices to administer inhalants
Nebulizer
o Small machine that vaporizes liquid medication into fine
mist to be inhaled
NCLEX REVIEW 79
Handheld device
Face mask
Dry powder inhaler (DPI)
o Small device activated by inhalation to deliver powder to
bronchial tree
o Turbuhaler
o Rotahaler
Metered-dose inhaler (MDI)
o Propellant delivers measured dose with each breath
o Time inhalations to match puffs
How to use an inhaler:
o Use spacer if instructed b/w MDI and mouth
o Shake inhaler/load with tablet or powder
o If using bronchodilator/corticosteroid inhalers
Use bronchodilator first
Wait 5-10 minutes
Use corticosteroid so that drug goes deeper
o Rinse mouth after using inhaler
o Rinse spacer and inhaler in water daily and air dry
Asthma
o Chronic pulmonary disease
Inflammation
Bronchospasm
o Drugs given to:
Decrease frequency (prophylaxis)
Stop current episode
o Fun facts:
African American women highest asthma mortality rate
Asthma is most common chronic childhood disease
It affects more grown women than men
With children, it affects more boys than girls
o If new onset asthma
Assess for any recent changes in:
Diet
Soaps, etc.
o Always obtain baseline vital signs
o Have patient increase fluid intake to assist with mobilization of mucus
o Other nonpharmacological interventions for asthma/COPD:
Consume small, frequent calorie and nutrient-dense meals
NCLEX REVIEW 80
Nuts
MSG
Shellfish
Dairy products
o Respiratory infections
Bacterial, fungal, viral
o Stress
Exercise in dry, cold climates
“exercise-induced asthma”
Status asthmaticus
o Severe, prolonged asthma
Unresponsive to drugs
Respiratory failure may result
o Goals of therapy:
Terminate existing attacks
Reduce frequency of attacks
Two classes:
Quick-relief medications:
o Short/intermediate-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist
(SABAs)
Bronchodilator
Preferred for relief of acute symptoms
o Anticholinergics
Bronchodilator
Alternative for those who cannot take SABAs
o Systemic corticosteroids
Anti-inflammatory
Not rapid
PO for short periods to reduce frequency of acute
episodes
Long-acting medications
o Inhaled corticosteroids
Anti-inflammatory
Preferred Long-term asthma management
PO for severe, persistent asthma
o Mast cell stabilizers
Anti-inflammatory
For mild, persistent asthma or exercise-induced
o Leukotriene modifiers
Anti-inflammatory
NCLEX REVIEW 82
PRN drugs
o Intermediate duration
Effects last 8 hours
o Long acting drugs (LABAs)
12 hour duration
Slow onset of action
Salmeterol (Serevent)
BLACK BOX
Increased deaths
o People tried to take a LABA instead
of SABA during acute episode
Must educate patient to use with other drugs:
I.E. inhaled corticosteroids
For those with severe asthma that needs
more than one drug to control
Available:
o PO
Longer duration of action
More systemic effects
Activation of Beta1 receptors on heart
o Dysrhythmias
o MI
o Death
Tolerance develops over time
Higher doses needed
As doses keep getting higher and more
frequent, call provider!
o Inhaled (most common for respiratory conditions)
Minimal systemic effects
o Parenteral
General adverse effects:
o Headache
o Dizziness
o Tremor
o Nervousness
o Throat irritation
o Tolerance
o Tachycardia
o Dysrhythmias
NCLEX REVIEW 84
o Hypokalemia
o Hyperglycemia
o Paradoxical bronchoconstriction
o Increased risk for asthma-related death
Prototype: Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin, VoSpire)
SABA
Rapid onset
Terminates occurring episode
Bronchodilator
Increases mucus drainage
Inhibits release of inflammatory particles from mast cells
If given 15-30 minutes before exercise
o Prevents exercise-induced bronchospasm
NOT FOR ASTHMA PROPHYLAXIS
Teach patient proper use of inhaler and actuator
Adverse effects:
o Palpitations
o Headaches
o Throat irritation
o Tremors
o Nervousness
o Restlessness
o Tachycardia
o Insomnia
o Dry mouth
o Chest pain
o Paradoxical bronchospasm
o Anaphylaxis
Do not give to patients with:
o Hx of cardiac disease
o Hx of HTN
Do not give with:
o Beta blockers (inhibits bronchodilation)
o MAO-Is (within 14 days of ending MAO-I therapy)
o Caffeine (nervousness, tremor, palpitations)
May cause decrease in the following lab:
o Potassium
For overdose:
NCLEX REVIEW 85
Viral infections
Omalizumab (Xolair)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
o Progressive pulmonary disorder
Chronic and recurrent airflow obstruction
o Mostly caused by:
Asthma
Air pollution
Chronic bronchitis
Excessive mucus produced in lower respiratory tract
o Airway becomes occluded
Dyspnea and coughing occur
o Early S/S:
Productive cough on awakening
Wheezing
Decreased exercise tolerance
Often have comorbidities
o HF
o HTN
Strongly associated with tobacco smoking
Strongly associated with air pollution
Emphysema
Terminal stage of COPD
o Bronchioles lose elasticity
Alveoli dilate to allow for increased air flow
Extreme dyspnea
Strongly associated with tobacco smoking
Strongly associated with air pollution
o Major cause of death/disability
o Goals of therapy:
Relieve symptoms
Avoid complciations
o Medications:
Bronchodilators
Ipratropium (Atrovent)
Beta2 agonist (SABA and LABA)
Inhaled corticosteroids
Mucolytics and expectorants
Oxygen therapy
NCLEX REVIEW 92
o S/S:
N/V
Altered LOC
Seizures
NEURO!
Potassium (most abundant intracellular cation: 3.5-5.0)
Hyperkalemia
o Caused by:
High potassium intake
Papayas
Bananas
Supplements
Potassium sparing diuretics
Chronic renal disease
ACE inhibitors
o S/S:
Cardiac!****
Tall tented T waves on EKG
Ventricular fibrillation
Death
Abdominal discomfort
Diarrhea
Muscle weakness
o Treated through:
Avoiding high K foods
Administering Glucose and Insulin!
Administering sodium bicarbonate
Giving Kayexelate
Hypokalemia
o Caused by:
Loop or thiazide diuretics
Digoxin
N/V, diarrhea
o S/S:
Cardiac!***
Muscle weakness
Anorexia
o Treated through:
Eating more foods with K
Supplements
Chloride (major extracellular anion: 98 to 108)
Usually bound with salt
NCLEX REVIEW 96
Hyperchloremia
o Caused by:
Kidney disease
Diarrhea
Hyperparathyroidism
o S/S:
Dehydration
Hyperglycemia
HTN
Tachypnea/Kussmaul breathing
NEURO
o Treatment:
Fluid resuscitation
Sodium bicarbonate
LR
Low sodium diet
Hypochloremia
o Caused by:
Excessive urination/sweating
Vomiting
Kidney disease
Cystic fibrosis
o S/S:
Dehydration
Hypertonicity/spasticity
Shallow depressed breathing**
Hyponatremia (NEURO!)
o Treatment:
0.9% NS or 0.45% NS
Increased dietary intake of Na and K
Magnesium (1.5-2.5)
Get through:
o Dark green leafy vegetables
o Whole grain bread
Hypomagnesemia
o Caused by:
Alcoholism
DKA
Kidney disease
Pancreatitis
Hypoparathyroidism
o S/S:
NCLEX REVIEW 97
Low Ca
Muscle weakness
Tremors
HTN
Altered LOC
Hypermagnesemia
o Caused by:
Dehydration
Addison’s disease
Hyperparathyroidism
Kidney failure
Hypothyroidism
o S/S:
Depressed respirations**
Seen with OB patients given this for preterm
labor
Decreased reflexes
Confusion
Constipation
Phosphorus (major intracellular anion: 2.5-4.5)
High phosphorus shows symptoms of low Ca
Low phosphorus shows symptoms of high Ca
o Acid-base balance
Normal pH: 7.35-7.45
Based on amount of hydrogen ions
Less than 7.35 is acidotic
Greater than 7.45 is alkalotic
CO2: 35-45
Bicarbonate: 22-28
Major base buffer
PO2: 80-100
ROMEO (write out everything, including normal values, and put up or
down arrows next to each abnormal value to show answer based on
ROMEO)
Respiratory
Opposite
Metabolic
Equal
Oxygen (are they hypoxic?)
Types of acid-base imbalances
(Takes longer for metabolic (kidneys) to compensate; respiratory
(lungs) are for fast compensation)
NCLEX REVIEW 98
Respiratory acidosis
o High CO2
o Hypoventilation
Usually related to drug overdose
Respiratory alkalosis
o Low CO2
o Hyperventilation
Blowing off CO2
Have them breath into a paper bag
Metabolic acidosis
o High hydrogen ions, low bicarbonate
o Can be related to:
Kidney failure
DKA
Diarrhea
Rhabdomyolysis
o Compensated for in DKA with:
Kussmaul respirations
Deep, fast breathing to make respiratory
alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis
o Low hydrogen ions, high bicarbonate
o Can be related to:
Excessive vomiting/suctioning
o Compensated through respiratory acidosis
NCLEX REVIEW 99
Endocrine
o Hypothalamus=master gland
Regulates via negative feedback to allow for homeostasis
Releases hormones like:
Gonadotropin releasing hormone
Thyroid releasing hormone
o Pituitary gland
Receives hormones from hypothalamus and stimulates release of other
hormones
Anterior pituitary:
Growth hormone (GH)
o Important for children’s growth
o Highest at night
Why important to get deep sleep (stages 3 and 4)
o Deficiency:
Can give SQ growth hormones to children nightly
before puberty to help gain some height
Monitor for infection risk
NCLEX REVIEW 100
o Decreased LOC
Treat by replacing cortisol and aldosterone
Cushing’s disease
Excessive cortisol and aldosterone secretion
o Could be related to drugs, tumor, etc.
S/S:
o Weight gain
Possible fluid overload S/S
o High Na (so Neuro)
o Low K (so Cardiac)
o Poor wound healing
o Mood swings
Treat possibly through removing adrenal
glands
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
o Activates thyroid to lead to release of T3 and T4
Helps with basal metabolic rate
o Need iodine!!***
Get from:
Soy sauce
Fish
Salt
o Hypothyroidism (superman when Krypton and all family
destroyed, or like depression)
Decreased metabolic rate
S/S:
Bradycardia
Decreased LOC
o Coma!
Non pitting edema
Dry, course hair
Treat using:
Levothyroxine
o Worry about S/S of hyperthyroidism
o Hyperthyroidism (superman saving Lois Lane, or mania)
A.k.a. Graves Disease
Increased metabolic rate
S/S:
Exophthalmos (bulging eyes)
Tachycardic
Tremors
NCLEX REVIEW 102
Weight loss
Treat using:
PTU or methimazole
o INFECTION!!!
Radioactive iodine
o Shrinks thyroid until can be
surgically removed
o Maintain radiation precautions
30 minute limit in room
Lead badge for nurse
No pregnant women or small
children visiting
Pee sitting down
Flush toilet twice
Thyroid storm
Hyperthyroidism to the extreme
Treat by:
o Minimizing stimulation
o Giving medications to decrease HR
and BP
o Give antithyroid medications
Gonadotropic hormones
o FSH
o LH
Prolactin
o Helps with milk production in breasts
o Necessary for successful lactation
Posterior pituitary (only stores, does not make hormones)
ADH
o Helps with retaining WATER
o Diabetes insipidus
Deficiency of ADH
Unable to retain water
S/S:
Polyuria
o Seen first in kiddos when
bedwetting!
Polydipsia (excessive drinking)
Treat using vasopressin or desmopressin
o SIADH
Excessive ADH
NCLEX REVIEW 103
GI (including medications)
o Ulcers (could be from H. pylori, NSAIDs, alcohol, tobacco)
Gastric ulcers
Pain before eating; eating resolves
Weight loss
N/V
Possible abdominal burning
Duodenal ulcers
Pain 1 or 2 hours after eating
Stress ulcers
Can give medications to minimize acidity
PPIs
o Pantoprazole
Can give with antacids
Take 30 minutes before meals
NCLEX REVIEW 104
Marijuana
Positions
o Supine
After lumbar puncture for several hours
Monitor for orthostatic hypotension when patient gets up from this
position
Risk for pressure ulcers on bony prominences
Perform frequent turning every 1 to 2 hours
Good for after cardiac catheterization
o Prone
Lying on stomach
Position of choice for babies and above the knee amputees
Tummy time!
NCLEX REVIEW 107
Can also have CSF leaks, which would be noted by yellow halo
sign on tissue
Emergency response to a situation
o Ensure safety of rescuer
o Primary response:
A-airway
B-breathing
C-circulation
D-disability
E-exposure (make sure to take into consideration the environment, remove
all clothing and jewelry)
o Secondary response:
A-allergies
M-medications taken
P-past medical history/pregnancies
L-Last meal (aspiration risk?)
E-environment (where were they found?)
o Must ensure that patient is stabilized via primary response before CT or MRI
o Heart attack (MI) protocols
M-morphine (vasodilator)
O-oxygen
N-nitrates (vasodilator)
A-Aspirin (anti-platelet)
o ACLS (life support, including CPR, oxygen, etc.)
With any ACLS, want to check to see if stable versus unstable
Stable: Systolic BP >90, HR 60-100, asymptomatic
o With stable, usually use medications
Unstable: Systolic BP <90, HR <60 or >100, symptomatic
o With unstable, usually do electrical conversions in
conjunction with medications
Supraventricular tachycardia (heart rate elevated above 120 bpm)
If stable, give atropine 0.5 mg IV push every 3-5 minutes w/
ceiling of 3 mg
If unstable, pace patient using monitor
Blocks (impulses not originating in nodes appropriately)
3 types of heart block
If stable, ask patient what medications they are taking
If unstable, pace patient using monitor
Ventricular tachycardia (be gentle to the beating heart, do NOT
defibrillate a beating heart!)
If stable, give amiodarone to correct dysrhythmia
If unstable and pulse, cardiovert
If unstable and no pulse, then begin CPR and set up monitor to
defibrillate, epinephrine doses
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Ventricular fibrillation
Always pulseless
Begin CPR, give 1 mg epinephrine, CPR, defibrillate, CPR,
amiodarone, CPR, defibrillate, CPR, epinephrine.
o Keep going until pulse returns or too tired to continue
Atrial flutter (saw tooth pattern)
Risk for clots being thrown to brain/lungs/heart
Give Cardizem (push 20 mg, hang 10 mg)
Atrial fibrillation (no discernible P waves)
No heart beat
CPR, defibrillation, epinephrine
PEA
NCLEX REVIEW 111
Electrical activity present on EKG (looks usually like sinus
rhythm) but no pulse on assessment
ASSESS THE PATIENT, NOT THE MONITOR
Look for potential causes of PEA and correct to treat
o Hypoxia
o Hypo/hyperkalemia
o Hypoglycemia
o Trauma
o Tamponade
o Thrombi
For EKGs, count squares b/w P waves and QRS complexes to check for
regularity
Strips count as 6 second intervals, so count number of QRS
complexes and times by 10 to get rate per minute
Burns
o Risk for fluid volume depletion and shock
o Key is fluid resuscitation with Lactated Ringers
Want to save reddened area around dead, necrotic burn zone.
Based on BSA
NCLEX REVIEW 112
Wt in kg x % burn x 4 mL then divide by amount of hours fluid needs to
be given over (this first number is the amount per 24 hours)
o 1st degree burns
Superficial-like sunburns, painful
nd
o 2 degree burns
Partial thickness
Blisters
Can be painful unless nerve endings destroyed
rd
o 3 degree burns
Full thickness
White, dead skin
No feeling
o With a burn patient, want to remove all clothing and jewelry to prevent
compartment syndrome (may have to cut through dead tissue if loss of circulation
occurs
Keep warm environment
Cover head
Do NOT put on wet dressings
Do not put vasoline on patient
o HUGE INFECTION RISK
o Carbon monoxide poisoning/inhalation injury
Suspect if ash in patient’s mouth, singed nose hairs, drooling, hoarseness
INTUBATE IMMEDIATELY
Renal failure and dialysis
o BUN levels
8 to 20
o Creatinine
NCLEX REVIEW 113
0.7-1.5
Creatinine clearance equals GFR
o Acute renal failure causes
Prerenal
Before the kidney
Low BP
Intrarenal
Medications blocking it
o Contrast
Postrenal
Ureter obstructions
o Acute renal failure stages
Onset
Minimal s/s
Oliguric
Decreased/absent urine output
Metabolic acidosis
Fluid retention
Hyponatremia
Hyperkalemia**
Diuretic
Polyuria
Hypovolemia
Hypokalemia
Recovery
GFR improves
o Hemodialysis
Need Quinton Catheter in place or AV fistula
No BP on fistula arm
Infection risk!
Hear the bruit, feel the thrill
Risk for hypotension/circulatory collapse
o Peritoneal dialysis
Catheter inserted into abdomen
Sterile procedure to prevent infection
Monitor for rigid abdomen and pain (peritonitis)
Monitor for cloudy or bloody outflow
o CRRT
Good for preventing hypotension complications
NCLEX REVIEW 114
Says 3 to 5 words
Recognizes objects by name
Uses security blanket or toy
o Fifteen months:
Walks without help
Creeps up stairs
Falls when throws a ball or running
Scribbles
Can use cup but rotates spoon wrong
Enjoys pictures
Knows 4-6 words
Asks for objects by pointing
No!
Less stranger fear
Imitates parents performing household chores
Kisses and hugs parents and pictures
o Eighteen months:
Picky eater!
Toddler diet
o Avoid choking hazard foods
Anterior fontanel closed
Walks up stairs with hand held
Pulls and pushes toys*
Seats self in chair
Throws ball overhand without falling
Manages spoon well
Says 10 or more words
Gesture-word combinations
Temper tantrums
Domestic mimicry
My toy
o Twenty four months (2 years old):
16 teeth present
Beginning to control bowel and bladder elimination
Goes up and down stairs alone
Kicks ball without falling
Fine motor movements improving
Vocabulary of 300 words and use of 2-3 word phrases
Gives first name
Verbalizes need for food or toileting
Parallel play**
Dresses self in simple clothing
o Thirty months:
NCLEX REVIEW 118
20 teeth present
Daytime bowel and bladder control
Jumps with both feet
Good hand-finger coordination (especially with coloring)
Puts things away after playing
Notices gender differences
o 3 years
Nighttime bowel and bladder control
Rides a tricycle*
May try to dance
Telegraphic speech
Asks lots of questions
Can prepare simple meals
Dresses self almost completely
Pulls on shoes
Feeds self completely
Has fears
Is egocentric
Able to separate from parents easier
o 4 years:
Skips and hops on one foot
Catches ball reliably and throws overhead
Can use scissors
Can lace shoes
Exaggerates stories
Comprehends analogies
Selfish and impatient
Associative play
Imaginary friends*
Understands time better
Cannot conserve matter
4-5 word sentences
Dos and Don’ts
Can run errands outside the home
o 5 years:
Jumps rope*
Skates with good balance*
Ties shoelaces completely
Six to eight word sentences
Names days of week
Total self care
Associative play
Enjoys cooking, sports, shopping with parents
NCLEX REVIEW 119
o Age 5-7:
Conservation of mass, weight, and numbers occurs
o 6 years old:
Likes to draw, print, and color
Describes objects in pictures
Takes bath without supervision
Likes table games, card games
Increasing socialization with children of own age
o 7 years old:
Repeats skills to master them
Develops concept of time
Uses table knife
Brushes and combs hair
Group play, more cooperative
o 8-9 years old:
Jumps, chases, skips
Dresses self completely
Uses common tools
Likes to compete in games with children of both sexes
o 10-12 years old:
Writes brief stories
Puberty changes begin
Uses telephone
Raises pets
Cooks and cleans
Likes family
Vaccination schedules
NCLEX REVIEW 120
o Hepatitis B
First dose at birth
1-2 months
6 months-15 months
o TDaP
2 months
4 months
6 months
15 months
4-6 years old
Every 10 years
o Hib
2 months
4 months
12-15 months
o IPV (polio)
2 months
4 months
6-15 months
4-6 years old
o MMR
6- 12 months
o Varicella
12-15 months
NCLEX REVIEW 121
o Rotavirus
Bacteria found in unclean food and water
Problem in that causes severe diarrhea and subsequent dehydration
o Botulism
Floppy baby syndrome
Often the result of giving babies honey, as has bacteria
Respiratory arrest from relaxed diaphragm
o Tetanus
Bacterial infection that results in lock jaw from muscle tetany and
respiratory arrest
NCLEX REVIEW 123
Developmental theorists
o Erikson’s psychosocial development (must complete a stage before can move on
to next)
Trust vs. Mistrust-infant (0-12 months)
Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt-toddler (1-3 years)
Initiative vs. Guilt-preschooler (3-5 years old)
Industry vs. Inferiority-school age (6-12 years)
Identity vs. role confusion-adolescent (12-18 years old)
Intimacy vs. isolation-young adult (18-35 years old)
Generativity vs. stagnation-middle aged adult (giving back or mid-life
crisis?) (35-65 years old)
Integrity vs. despair-older adult (life review) (65 years old to death)
o Piaget’s cognitive theory
Sensorimotor stage (0-2 years)
Interacts with environment and differentiate self from objects; uses
senses
Preoperational stage (2-4 years)
Objects classified simply and must think concretely; egocentric
Concrete operational stage (7-11 years)
Child uses logic to understand physical experiences, can conserve
matter, area, etc.
Formal operations (11-15 years)
Can think abstractly to make rational judgments
NCLEX REVIEW 124
Chicken pox
Tuberculosis
Surgical asepsis
o Purpose
Trying to minimize bacterial presence within the environment
o Key notes
The 1 inch border around the sterile field is not sterile
Liquids must be poured into a container from 4 to 6 inches away
If water gets on sterile field, it is contaminated
Open sterile packages as follows:
Open flap away from you
Then open flap on sides
Lastly open flap towards body
Keep objects above waist level
Anything that is not in line of vision is not sterile
Anything kept out to air too long is not sterile
Can drop sterile objects out of sterile packages onto sterile field
HIPAA
o Don’t copy patient documents to take home
o Only allow health care members who are part of the patient’s care access records
Don’t give to travelling chaplains, unauthorized family members, etc.
o Log out of computer to prevent others from viewing records
o If you hear people talking about a patient, first thing you do is stop them from
talking about it!!!!
Don’t talk about things in elevator, cafeteria, etc.
NCLEX REVIEW 127
Delegation
o Right task (first thing to consider)
o Right person (does person have necessary job description/experience to do?)
o Right circumstances (is the patient stable?)
o Right communication/direction (give as much detail as possible)
o Right supervision (do you have to monitor the delegatee performing the task
constantly? If so, then better to just do it yourself)
o The more information given for the delegatee, the better
o NEVER DELEGATE:
Nursing process (ADPIE)
Unstable patients
Education (primary)
Admissions
IV medications
o LPNs:
Can do reinforcement teaching
Can give all medications except for blood products and IV medications
Can give NG feedings/insert NG tubes
o ACPs:
Help with transfer/ambulation of stable patients
Cannot give any medications
Can take vital signs, but not first vital signs post-surgical procedures
Can help with turning and repositioning
NO teaching
Note the job experience of the personnel
Time management/prioritization
o Group activities together for patients to manage time well
o Plan and set goals at the beginning of shift and be flexible, modifying goals
throughout day
o Gather all materials before entering patient’s room
o If patient falls, call for help and stay with patient*
Therapeutic communication
o Never go for the answer related to Why questions, accusations, etc.
o Look for questions that reflect the question back at the patient
Reflection and restatement are always good*
o With a patient who hints at wanting to commit suicide, always address this topic
to maintain patient safety!**
NCLEX REVIEW 128
o Cane walking
Grasp cane on unaffected side
Move cane to side of foot and six to 12 inches in front of foot
Wider base of support
Move affected leg forward so even with cane
Have patient shift weight to affected leg and cane and move unaffected leg
forward
Have patient move cane forward and move affected leg forward again so
even with cane
Walk along affected side in case patient needs help*
o Nursing assist
Make sure not hypotensive
Place gait belt around patient
Assist patient to standing position by standing in front of her, holding gait
belt on each side,
Rock back and forth three times, on third pull patient up
Move to unaffected side
o Grasp gait belt at back with one hand and patient’s nearest
hand with other hand
If no gait belt, grasp upper arm with one hand and same sided hand
Have patient look straight ahead when walking and don’t shuffle
If patient feels weak or tired, put in bed or chair immediately
o Walker
Push up into standing position
Place hands on hand grips of walker one at a time
Push walker forward and affected leg forward four to six inches
Have shift weight to arms and to affected leg
Move unaffected leg forward so even with affected leg
Walk behind her and to side in case needs assistance!
NCLEX REVIEW 130
Transferring patient
o Bed to gurney
Lower head of bed
Place sheet over patient (privacy!)
Raise bed so slightly higher than gurney
Have two nurses on side where patient will roll and one patient on other
side
Have patient cross arms over chest
Roll both sides of drawsheet in and grasp
Roll patient onto side
Transfer board under
Put on bed
Make sure breaks on bed and gurney…
Pull patient onto gurney and center and assist to comfortable position.
Make sure all side rails up
o Lying, sitting, standing
Put bed at 30* angle
Put blankets away
Assist patient into side lying position
Ask patient to bend knees
Put self at level of patient’s hips
Put one hand around patient’s neck and other around legs to assist with
turning patient to get legs over edge of bed
Sitting position!
Keep standing in front of him until know stable.
Help patient put on shoes
Gait belt
o Mechanical lift
Ensure wheel chair is near bed.
Side lying position away from nurse
Sling should go under patient from shoulders to knees
Raise up side rail and go to other side of bed
Side lying position away from nurse so sling completely under patient and
flat
Get patient supine again
Put lift mechanism directly above patient
Have patient cross arms over chest
Raise HOB
Have straps all attached
Lift patient and slide off bed until over wheelchair