Adrianne Bazo

11-18-08

Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency
sertraline Zoloft Antidepressant 50mg PO Q day
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
Unknown Within 2-4 Unknown 50 mg/day as a single dose in the morning or evening initially; after
wk several weeks may be increased at weekly intervals up to 200 mg/day,
depending on response
Why is your patient getting this medication For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or
Depression/anxiety solutions
NA

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

(Why med ordered)
Inhibits neuronal uptake of serotonin in the CNS,
thus potentiating the activity of serotonin. Has
little effect on norepinephrine or dopamine
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hypersensitivity
Common side effects
Dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache, insomnia,
diarrhea, dry mouth, nausea, increased sweating, tremor

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically)
None for this pt
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Monitor appetite and nutritional intake. Weigh
weekly. Notify physician or other health care
professional of continued weight loss. Adjust
diet as tolerated to support nutritional status
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
None known
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Instruct patient to take sertraline as directed. Take missed doses as soon
as possible and return to regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Avoid alcohol or other CNS depressant drugs during therapy
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Increased sense of well-
Monitor mood changes. Inform physician or being. May require 1-4 wk
other health care professional if patient
of therapy
demonstrates significant increase in anxiety,
nervousness, or insomnia