Medications

Question 1

Prednisone

Answer 1

Class: anti-inflammatory

Uses: pneumonia

Considerations: monitor for hyperglycemia, weight gain, fluid retention, moon face, take with food, do not discontinue suddenly

Question 2

Ipratropium

Answer 2

Class: anticholinergic

Use: pneumonia, respiratory acidosis

Action: bronchodilation and decreased secretions

Considerations: monitor heart rate, dry mouth

Question 3

Albuterol

Answer 3

Class: beta2 adrenergic agonists

Use: pneumonia, respiratory acidosis

Action: rapid relief bronchodilator

Considerations: watch for tremors and tachycardia

Question 4

Acetlicysteine

Answer 4

Class: mucolytics

Use: pneumonia, respiratory acidosis

Action: thin secretions

Considerations: given via nebulizer

Question 5

Guaifenesin

Answer 5

Class: expectorants

Use: pneumonia

Action: thin secretions

Question 6

Enoxaparin

Answer 6

Trade name: Lovenox
Class: anticoagulant

Use: pulmonary embolism

Action: prevents clots from getting bigger

Considerations: given subcutaneously, monitor PTT (frequent blood draws)

Antidote: protamine sulfate

Question 7

Warfarin

Answer 7

Trade name: Coumadin
Class: anticoagulant

Use: pulmonary embolism

Action: prevents clots from getting bigger

Considerations: given orally, monitor PT and INR (weekly blood draws), be careful with vitamin K foods, warfarin should be held 7-10 days prior to surgery

Antidote: vitamin K

Question 8

Alteplase

Answer 8

Class: thrombolytics

Use: pulmonary embolism

Action: dissolves clots

Considerations: monitor bleeding

Question 9

Metoclopramide
Promethazine
Ondansetron

Answer 9

Trade name: Reglan
Class: antiemetic

Use: preop, metabolic alkalosis

Action: increases gastric emptying

Considerations: can cause Malignant Hyperthermia and other EPS

Antidote: for MH is IV dantrolene

Question 10

Diazepam
Lorazepam
Midazolam

Answer 10

Trade names: Valium, Ativan, Versed
Class: Benzodiazepines

Use: preop,

Action: reduces anxiety, promotes amnesia, mild sedation

Considerations:

Antidote: flumazenil

Question 11

Fentanyl
Morphine
Sufentanil
Alfentanil
Hydromorphone
Remifentanil

Answer 11

Class: opioids

Use: preop

Action: sedation, analgesic

Considerations: can cause respiratory depression, constipation, nausea and vomiting

Antidote: Naloxone