NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Albuterol AccuNeb, Airet bronchodilators 0.83 mg/ml nebulizer Q 4 hrs PRN
Sulfate,
nebulizer
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
60-90 min 5-15 min 3-6 hr

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

(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
shortness of breath Geriatric patients (↑ risk adverse reactions; may require dosage
reduction)
Excess inhaler use may lead to tolerance and paradoxical
bronchospasm
Common side effects

nervousness, restlessness, tremor, headache, chest pain,

palpitations,

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
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
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Prevention or relief of
Observe for paradoxical bronchospasm bronchospasm
(wheezing). If condition occurs, withhold
medication and notify physician or other
health care professional immediately