Nurs 1566 Clinical Form 3

Clinical Medications Worksheets Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency Atenolol Tenormin antihypertensive 50mg PO Q day Beta-blcoker Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range 2-4 hr 1hr 24 hr Antihypertensive--25-50 mg once daily; may be increased after 2 wk to 50-100 mg once daily. Why is your patient getting this medication Management of hypertension

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

Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered) Blocks stimulation of beta1(myocardial)adrenergic receptors. Does not usually affect beta2(pulmonary, vascular, uterine)-receptor sites D e c r e a s e d b l o o d p r e s s u r e a n d h e a r t r a t e

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions Bradycardia, Diabetes mellitus (may mask signs of hypoglycemia) Common side effects Fatigue, weakness

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) May alter the effectiveness of insulins or oral hypoglycemic agents (dosage adjustments may be necessary)

Lab value alterations caused by medicine May cause increased BUN, serum lipoprotein, potassium, triglyceride, and uric acid levels. May cause increase in blood glucose levels

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Instruct patient to take atenolol as directed at the same time each day, even if feeling well. Patients with diabetes should closely monitor blood glucose, especially if weakness, malaise, irritability, or fatigue occurs. Medication does not block sweating as a sign of hypoglycemia. Reinforce the need to continue additional therapies for hypertension (weight loss, sodium restriction, stress reduction, regular exercise, moderation of alcohol consumption). Medication controls but does not cure hypertension

Nursing Process- Assessment (Pre-administration assessment) Monitor blood pressure, ECG, and pulse frequently during dosage adjustment period and periodically throughout therapy.

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this med? Monitor intake and output ratios and daily weights. Assess routinely for CHF (dyspnea, rales/crackles, weight gain, peripheral edema, jugular venous distention) Monitor patients receiving beta blockers for signs of overdose (bradycardia, severe dizziness or fainting, severe drowsiness, dyspnea, bluish fingernails or palms, seizures). Notify physician immediately if these signs occur

Evaluation Check after giving Decrease in blood pressure