Adrianne Bazo

11-18-09

Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency
simvastin Zocor HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors 20mg PO Q hs
lipid-lowering agents
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
unknown unknown unknown 5mg/day initially. Increase at 4-week intervals (not to exceed
10mg/day in patients receiving cyclosporine or 20mg/day in patients
receiving amiodarone or verapamil) up to 40mg/day
Why is your patient getting this medication For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or
High cholesterol solutions
N/A
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Inhibit an enzyme, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl- Hypersensitivity, cross-sensitivity among agents may
coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, which is occur, sepsis, acute hypotension
responsible for catalyzing an early step in the Common side effects
synthesis of cholesterol. Abdominal cramps, constipation, diarrhea, flatus,
heartburn,
rashes
 Adrianne Bazo
11-18-09

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically)
None known for this patient
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Evaluate serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels before
initiating,
u after 4-6 wk of therapy, and periodically thereafter.
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Be sure to teach the patient the following about this

medication
Instruct patient to take medication as directed and not to skip doses or
double up on missed doses. Advise patient to avoid drinking more that
1 qt/day of grapefruit juice during therapy. Medication helps control
but does not cure elevated serum cholesterol levels. Advise patient that
this medication should be used in conjunction with diet restrictions
(fat, cholesterol, carbohydrates, alcohol), exercise. Instruct patient to
notify health care professional if unexplained muscle pain, tenderness,
or weakness occurs, especially if accompanied by fever or malaise.
Advise patient to wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent
photosensitivity reactions (rare). Emphasize the importance of follow-
 Adrianne Bazo
11-18-09
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Obtain a dietary history, especially with
regard to fat consumption, Ophthalmic
exams are recommended before and
yearly during therapy
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Slowing of the progression
If patient develops muscle tenderness during of coronary artery disease
therapy, monitor CPK levels. If CPK levels
are markedly ↑ or myopathy occurs, therapy
should be discontinued