Naloxone (narcan)

NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets (You will need to make additional copies of these forms) Generic Name Naloxone

Trade Name Narcan

Classification Dose Route Time/frequency Antidotes (for 0.2 IVP PRN opioids) Duration Normal dosage range 0.02-0.2 mg q 2-3 min until response obtained; repeat q 1-2 45 min

Peak

Onset 1-2 min

Unknown

hr if needed

Why is your patient getting this medication

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

Reversal of CNS depression and respiratory depression because of suspected opioid overdosage

Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered) Competitively blocks the effects of opioids, including CNS and respiratory depression, without producing any agonist (opioid-like) effects Reversal of signs of opioid excess

Administer undiluted for suspected opioid overdoseFor patients with opioid-induced respiratory depression, dilute 0.4 mg of naloxone in 10 ml of sterile water or 0.9% NaCl for injection. Rate: Administer at a rate of 0.1-0.4 mg over 15 seconds in patients with suspected opioid overdose

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions Hypersensitivity Resuscitation equipment, oxygen, vasopressors, and mechanical ventilation should be available to supplement naloxone therapy as needed

Common side effects none

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) None for this pt

Lab value alterations caused by medicine none Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication As medication becomes effective, explain purpose and effects of naloxone to patient

Nursing Process- Assessment (Pre-administration assessment)

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this Monitor respiratory rate, rhythm, and depth; med? pulse, ECG, blood pressure; and level of Only give for suspected opioid consciousness frequently for 3-4 hr after the overdose/toxicity expected peak of blood concentrations. After a moderate overdose of a short halflife opioid, physical stimulation may be enough to prevent significant hypoventilation. The effects of some opioids may last longer than the effects of naloxone, and repeat doses may be necessary Assess patient for level of pain after administration when used to treat postoperative respiratory depression. Naloxone decreases respiratory depression but also reverses analgesia

Evaluation Check after giving

Alertness without significant pain or withdrawal symptoms