Lortab 5/550 (hydrocodone Acetaminophen)

NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets (You will need to make additional copies of these forms) Generic Name Hydrocodone/acetaminophen

Trade Name Lortab

Classification

Dose

Route

Time/frequency

opioid agonists/nonopioid analgesic combinations

5/550

po

Q 4˚ PRN

Peak

Onset

Duration

30-60 min

10-30 min

4-6 hr

For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions

Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered)

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions

Bind to opiate receptors in the CNS. Alter the perception of and response to painful stimuli while producing generalized CNS depression pain

Hypersensitivity to hydrocodone, Hypersensitivity to acetaminophen/aspirin/ibuprofen (for combination products), G e r i a t r i c o r d e b i l i t a t e d p a t i e n t s ( i n i t i a l d o s a g e r

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically)

Lab value alterations caused by medicine May cause increased plasma amylase and lipase concentrations

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Advise patient to take medication exactly as directed and not to take more than the recommended amount. Severe and permanent liver damage may result from prolonged use or high doses of acetaminophen. Renal damage may occur with prolonged use of acetaminophen or aspirin. Doses of nonopioid agents should not exceed the maximum recommended daily dose Instruct patient on how and when to ask for pain medication May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Advise patient to call for assistance when ambulating Advise patient to change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic hypotension Encourage patient to turn, cough, and breathe deeply every 2 hr to prevent atelectasis Advise patient that good oral hygiene, frequent mouth rinses, and sugarless gum or candy may decrease dry mouth

Nursing Process- Assessment (Pre-administration assessment) Assess blood pressure, pulse, and respirations before and periodically during administration. Assess type, location, and intensity of pain prior to and 1 hr (peak) following administration.

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this med? Before administering, clarify all ambiguous orders; have second practitioner independently check original order and dose calculations, reports no pain

Evaluation Check after giving Decrease in severity of pain without a significant alteration in level of consciousness or respiratory status