NP3- Respiratory & TB Medications Flashcards
(133 cards)
What is the difference between an antitussive and a cough expectorant?
An antitussive is a cough suppressant while a cough expectorant thins/loosens mucus in the respiratory tract so that it is easier to cough up and expel
What type of cough should antitussives be used for?
Chronic, non-productive cough
What type of cough should an expectorant be used for
Acute, productive cough
What are the two categories of cough suppressants (antitussives)?
Opioid (ex: codeine phosphate, codeine sulfate, hydrocodone)
Non-opioid (Benzonatate, Dextromethorphan)
What are contraindications to administering antitussives (cough suppressants)?
Avoid giving to patients with head injuries or postop cranial surgeries
Avoid giving to patients using opioids, sedative-hypnotics, barbiturates, or antidepressants due to CNS depression
What are the nursing considerations for codeine?
Slow position changes, do not use for COPD, take with food, increase fluid intake, medication dependency may occur
Give two examples of cough expectorants - medical name and brand name
Guaifenesin (Mucinex) and Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
Describe the nursing considerations for Guaifenesin (Musinex)
Expectorant
Increase fluids to at least 2L/day
Asthma safe
Describe the nursing considerations for Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
Not asthma safe (can worsen/cause bronchospasm)
Do not use with COPD (suppresses cough)
Used as antidote to acetaminophen poisoning
What are some of the side effects of antitussives (cough suppressants)?
Dizziness, respiratory depression (opioid), lightheadedness, N/V, constipation (opioid)
Name some of the nursing considerations associated with antitussives?
Do not take with ETOH or CNS depressants, avoid driving if dizziness occurs, teach the patient how to cough and deep breathe, notify HCP if fever, rash, CP or persistent HA occur
What are the common S/E of expectorants?
Dizziness, drowsiness, rash, GI upset
What are some of the nursing considerations for expectorants?
Assist with coughing/deep breathing, document onset of cough relief, do not take for chronic cough, report to HCP if cough lasts longer than 7 days, report fever, rash, sore throat, HA, increase fluid intake
What is the brand name for Benzonatate and what drug classification is it?
Tessalon Perles - non-opioid antitussive
What is a common term for antihistamines?
Allergy meds
What are the 3 main antihistamines used?
Diphenhydramine, Loratadine, Fexofenadine
What is the commercial brand name for diphenhydramine and what are its contraindications?
Benadryl (used for anaphylaxis) - contraindicated for closed angle glaucoma, urinary retention, peptic ulcer, small bowel obstruction
What is commercial brand name for Loratadine, and what advantage does it have to other antihistamines?
Claritin - it has fewer sedation effects
What is the MOA of antihistamines (h1 blockers)?
They block histamine (which creates inflammation)
What is the commercial brand name for Fexofenadine and what are its nursing considerations?
Allegra - it should not be used for glaucoma because its anticholinergic effects increase IOP (intraocular pressure)
What are first generation antihistamines used for?
Allergic rhinitis, anaphylactic reactions, acute urticaria, motion sickness
What are S/E of 1st generation antihistamines?
Depression, drowsiness, dry mouth, GI upset, bronchospasm, thickening of secretions, anticholinergic effects, arrythmias
What are the nursing considerations/education assoc. w/ first generation antihistamines?
Take with food, drink at least 8 glasses of water/day, frequent oral care, avoid ETOH, do not drive or operate heavy machinery, notify HCP if confusion occurs
What is another name for second generation antihistamines?
Non-sedating antihistamines