Adrianne Bazo

October 21, 2008

Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency
irbesartan Avapro angiotensin II receptor 150 PO BID
antagonists mg
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
3-14 hrs Within 24 hrs 150 mg once daily; may be increased to 300 mg once
2 hrs daily.
Why is your patient getting this medication For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or
Management of hypertension solutions
N/A
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Blocks vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-producing Hypersensitivity.
effects of angiotensin II at receptor sites,
including vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal Common side effects
glands No common side effects.
Lowering of blood pressure
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or Lab value alterations caused by medicine
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) Monitor serum creatinine and urinary protein in patients
None for this pt treated for diabetic nephropathy. May rarely cause ↑ in
BUN and serum creatinine. May cause ↑ serum
bilirubin. May occasionally cause hyperkalemia.
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Emphasize the importance of continuing to take as directed, even if feeling well.
Take missed doses as soon as remembered if not almost time for next dose; do not
double doses. Medication controls but does not cure hypertension. Instruct patient to
take medication at the same time each day. Gradual reduction of dose prior to
discontinuation is suggested. Encourage patient to comply with additional
interventions for hypertension (weight reduction, low-sodium diet, regular exercise,
stress management). Instruct patient and family on proper technique for monitoring
blood pressure. Advise them to check blood pressure at least weekly and to report
significant changes. Caution patient to avoid sudden changes in position to decrease
orthostatic hypotension. Standing for long periods, exercising, and hot weather may
increase orthostatic hypotension. May cause dizziness. Caution patient to avoid
driving or other activities requiring alertness until response to medication is known.
Advise patient to consult health care professional before taking any OTC or herbal
cough, cold, or allergy remedies or other medications. Instruct patient to notify
health care professional of medication regimen prior to treatment or surgery.
Emphasize the importance of follow-up exams to evaluate effectiveness of
medication.
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
Assess blood pressure (lying down, sitting, med? Decrease in blood
standing) and pulse periodically during therapy.
Monitor frequency of prescription refills to
Hypotension. Occurrence of pressure without
determine adherence. Assess patient for signs unexpected, intolerable side effects. appearance of excessive
of angioedema (dyspnea, facial swelling). May side effects.
rarely cause angioedema; more common in
patients who have had angioedema with ACE
inhibitors.