NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

albuterol Sympathomimetic drug 2.5 mg Inhalation Q6h PRN
Beta2-selective adrenergic agonist
sulfate Bronchodilator
Antiasthmatic
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
1.5–2 5 min 3–8 hr Each actuation of aerosol dispenser delivers 90 mcg albuterol; 2 inhalations q 4–6 hr; some patients may require
only 1 inhalation q 4 hr; more frequent administration or larger number of inhalations not recommended.
hr
• Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm: 2 inhalations 15 min prior to exercise.
Solution for inhalation
2.5 mg tid to qid by nebulization.
Inhalation capsules
One 200 mcg capsule q 4–6 hr up to two 200 mcg capsules q 4–6 hr.
• Prevention of exercise-induced asthma: One 200 mcg capsule inhaled 15 min before exercise.

Why is your patient getting this medication
Relief and prevention of bronchospasm in
patients with reversible obstructive airway
disease
Mechanism of action and indications
(Why med ordered)
In low doses, acts relatively selectively at
beta2-adrenergic receptors to cause
bronchodilation and vasodilation; at higher
doses, beta2 selectivity is lost, and the drug
acts at beta2 receptors to cause typical
sympathomimetic cardiac effects.
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC
or herbal medicines (ask patient
specifically)
None for this patient
For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions
None
Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Use minimal doses for minimal periods; drug tolerance can occur with
prolonged use.
Maintain a beta-adrenergic blocker (cardioselective beta-blocker, such as
atenolol, should be used with respiratory distress) on standby in case
cardiac arrhythmias occur.
Prepare solution for inhalation by diluting 0.5 mL 0.5% solution with 2.5
mL normal saline; deliver over 5–15 min by nebulization.
Do not exceed recommended dosage; administer pressurized inhalation
drug forms during second half of inspiration, because the airways are open
wider and the aerosol distribution is more extensive.
Common side effects
CNS: Restlessness, apprehension, anxiety, fear, CNS stimulation,
hyperkinesia, insomnia, tremor, drowsiness, irritability, weakness, vertigo,
headache
CV: Cardiac arrhythmias, tachycardia, palpitations, PVCs (rare), anginal
pain
Dermatologic: Sweating, pallor, flushing
GI: Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, unusual or bad taste
GU: Increased incidence of leiomyomas of uterus when given in higher
than human doses in preclinical studies
Respiratory: Respiratory difficulties, pulmonary edema, coughing,
bronchospasm, paradoxical airway resistance with repeated, excessive use
of inhalation preparations
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication
Do not exceed recommended dosage; adverse effects or loss of effectiveness may result. Read
the instructions that come with respiratory inhalant.
These side effects may occur: Dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache (use caution if driving
or performing tasks that require alertness); nausea, vomiting, change in taste (eat small,
frequent meals); rapid heart rate, anxiety, sweating, flushing, insomnia.
Report chest pain, dizziness, insomnia, weakness, tremors or irregular heartbeat, difficulty
breathing, productive cough, failure to respond to usual dosage.
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or
History: Hypersensitivity to albuterol; tachyarrhythmias, not give this med? Check to make sure no allergic
tachycardia caused by digitalis intoxication; general reactions or hypersensitivity
anesthesia with halogenated hydrocarbons or If patient is experiencing occurs, as well as any
cyclopropane; unstable vasomotor system disorders; any tachyarrhythmia, or arrhythmias
hypertension; coronary insufficiency, CAD; history of any coronary
stroke; COPD patients who have developed degenerative insufficiency the
heart disease; diabetes mellitus; hyperthyroidism; history medication should not
of seizure disorders; psychoneurotic individuals; be given.
Physical: Weight; skin color, temperature, turgor;
orientation, reflexes, affect; P, BP; R, adventitious
sounds; blood and urine glucose, serum electrolytes,
thyroid function tests, ECG