NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

(You will need to make additional copies of these forms)

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

zolpidem Ambien sedative/hypnotics 10mg po hs (may repeat once)

Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
30min-2hr rapid 6-8hr N/A

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

(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Produces CNS depression by binding to GABA Hypersensitivity, Sleep apnea, History of previous
receptors, has no analgesic properties. psychiatric illness, suicide attempt, drug or alcohol abuse,
Insomnia pregnancy, lactation, or children (safety not established)
Common side effects
amnesia, daytime drowsiness, dizziness, "drugged" feeling,
diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity reactions,
physical dependence, psychological dependence, tolerance

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
↑ CNS depression may with sedative/hypnotics , alcohol,
opioid analgesics
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Assess mental status, sleep patterns, and
potential for abuse prior to administration.
Prolonged use of >7-10 days may lead to
physical and psychological dependence. Limit
amount of drug available to the patient
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
none
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Tablets should be swallowed whole with full glass of water.
For faster onset of sleep, do not administer with or
immediately after a meal, May cause daytime drowsiness or
dizziness. Advise patient to avoid driving or other activities
requiring alertness until response to this medication is
known, Caution patient to avoid concurrent use of alcohol or
other CNS depressants
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Relief of insomnia
Assess patient for pain. Medicate as Assess alertness at time of
needed, untreated pain decreases peak effect. If desired sedation
sedative effects does not occur, notify health
care provider