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NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency:


Guaifenesin, Robitussin AC Expectorant, 10mL PO Q 4 hrs PRN
USP: 100 cough Dose Range: Rate of Administration (IV):
mg/Codeine suppressant N/A
Phosphate,
USP: 10 mg

Peak Onset Duration For IV meds


60-120 min 30-45 min 4-6 hr Compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions:
N/A
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Guaifenesin enhances the output of lower respiratory May be habit forming, If cough persists for more than 1
tract fluid. The enhanced flow of less viscid secretions week, tends to recur, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or
promotes and facilitates the removal of mucus. Codeine persistent headache, consult a doctor. Do not take this
is a centrally acting agent which elevates the threshold product for persistent or chronic cough such as occurs with
for cough. As a result, dry, unproductive coughs become smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or if
more productive and less frequent. Indicated for cough. cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) unless
directed by a doctor. Adults who have a chronic pulmonary
disease or shortness of breath should not take this product
unless directed by a doctor. May cause or aggravate
constipation. May cause drowsiness/reduced alertness.
Common side effects
Drowsiness, constipation, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting,
dizziness or headache may occur the first several days as
your body adjusts to the medication, skin rash, itching,
tachycardia
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal Lab value alterations caused by medicine
medicines (ask patient specifically) Guaifenesin has been shown to produce a color interference
None known with certain clinical laboratory determinations of 5-
hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) and vanillylmandelic
acid (VMA). May cause ↑ plasma amylase and lipase
concentrations
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
May be habit forming, may cause or aggravate constipation,
consult doctor if adverse reactions occur (fever, rash,
persistent headache, persistent cough), take with food if
stomach upset occurs, Do not increase the dose or take it
more often or longer than prescribed. This is a strong cough
medication and must only be used for the condition and by
the person for which it is prescribed. It should not be used for
just any cough. It is helpful to drink plenty of fluids (6-8
glasses a day) to help relieve congestion, tell your doctor
your medical history, especially of lung disease, use caution
performing tasks requiring alertness and avoid consuming
alcohol
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give Check after giving
Assess lung sounds, frequency and type of this med? Cough suppression, easier
cough, and character of bronchial secretions Suspected overdose (slowed mobilization and expectoration of
periodically during therapy. Maintain fluid breathing, drowsiness, deep sleep mucus from cough
intake of 1500-2000 ml/day to decrease or loss of consciousness, cold and
viscosity of secretions. Assess blood pressure, clammy skin, dry mouth, and
pulse, and respirations before and periodically slow pulse), no cough, high fever,
during administration. persistent headache, skin rash,

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