NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets

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

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

amlodipine Norvasc Antihypertensive, 5 mg PO Q am
calcium channel
blocker
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
6-9 hrs Unknown 24 hrs Initiate therapy at 2.5 mg/day, increase as
required/tolerated (up to 10 mg/day).
Why is your patient getting this medication For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or
HTN solutions
N/A
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Inhibits the transport of calcium into myocardial and Hypersensitivity, blood pressure < 90 mm Hg. Use
vascular smooth muscle cells, resulting in inhibition cautiously in: Severe hepatic impairment (dosage
of excitation-contraction coupling and subsequent reduction recommended), geriatric patients (dosage
contraction. Systemic vasodilation resulting in reduction recommended; increased risk of hypotension),
decreased blood pressure. Coronary vasodilation aortic stenosis, history of CHF.
resulting in decreased frequency and severity of Common side effects
attacks of angina. Headache, peripheral edema.
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically)
Additive hypotension may occur when used
concurrently with other antihypertensives (Prinivil,
Coreg) or acute ingestion of alcohol.
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Monitor blood pressure and pulse before
therapy, during dose titration, and
periodically during therapy. Monitor ECG
periodically during prolonged therapy.
Monitor intake and output ratios and daily
weight. Assess for signs of CHF
(peripheral edema, rales/crackles,
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Total serum calcium concentrations are not affected by
calcium channel blockers.
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Advise patient to take medication as directed, even if
feeling well. Take missed doses as soon as possible unless
almost time for next dose; do not double doses. May need
to be discontinued gradually. Instruct patient on correct
technique for monitoring pulse. Instruct patient to contact
health care professional if heart rate is <50 bpm. Caution
patient to change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic
hypotension. May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Advise
patient to avoid driving or other activities requiring
alertness until response to the medication is known.
Instruct patient on importance of maintaining good dental
hygiene and seeing dentist frequently for teeth cleaning to
prevent tenderness, bleeding, and gingival hyperplasia
(gum enlargement). Instruct patient to avoid concurrent
use of alcohol or OTC medications, especially cold
preparations, without consulting health care professional.
Advise patient to notify health care professional if irregular
heartbeats, dyspnea, swelling of hands and feet,
pronounced dizziness, nausea, constipation, or hypotension
occurs or if headache is severe or persistent. Caution
patient to wear protective clothing and use sunscreen to
prevent photosensitivity reactions. Advise patient to inform
health care professional of medication regimen before
treatment or surgery. Encourage patient to comply with
other interventions for hypertension (weight reduction,
low-sodium diet, smoking cessation, moderation of alcohol
consumption, regular exercise, and stress management).
Medication controls but does not cure hypertension.
Instruct patient and family in proper technique for
monitoring blood pressure. Advise patient to take blood
pressure weekly and to report significant changes to health
care professional.
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Decrease in blood pressure.
Blood pressure < 90 mm Hg or heart
rate < 50 bpm.
dyspnea, weight gain, jugular venous
distention).