Using Davis’s Drug Guide, and any additional resources to finalize one card for each of the two researched drugs. Put your name on the cards and include the following:
- Name of the Drug
- Classification of Drug
- Mechanism of Action
- Recommended Dose
- Routes of Administration
- Potential Side Effects
- Possible Adverse Effects
- Special Nursing Care Considerations and Implications for this Drug
Scan the cards to submit to the drop box below.
Card 1:
Name of the Drug: Metformin Classification of Drug: Biguanide Mechanism of Action: Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and increases peripheral glucose uptake, thus lowering blood glucose levels. It also improves insulin sensitivity by increasing the number of insulin receptors. Recommended Dose: The usual starting dose is 500 mg orally once daily with the evening meal. The maximum dose is 2,550 mg/day in divided doses. Routes of Administration: Oral Potential Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, headache, and metallic taste in the mouth. Possible Adverse Effects: Lactic acidosis, which is rare but can be life-threatening. Special Nursing Care Considerations and Implications for this Drug: Metformin should not be used in patients with renal impairment or hepatic dysfunction. It should be discontinued prior to procedures requiring contrast dye due to the risk of lactic acidosis. Monitor renal function and electrolytes regularly.
Card 2:
Name of the Drug: Warfarin Classification of Drug: Anticoagulant Mechanism of Action: Warfarin inhibits vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, which decreases the production of thrombin and reduces the risk of thrombosis. Recommended Dose: The dosage varies depending on the patient’s individual response, but the usual starting dose is 2-5 mg orally once daily. Routes of Administration: Oral Potential Side Effects: Bleeding, bruising, hair loss, nausea, and diarrhea. Possible Adverse Effects: Hemorrhage, which can be severe and life-threatening. Special Nursing Care Considerations and Implications for this Drug: Monitor the patient’s international normalized ratio (INR) regularly to ensure that the dosage is appropriate. Warfarin interacts with many medications and foods, so ensure that the patient is aware of these interactions and takes the drug as directed. Instruct the patient to avoid activities that may result in injury or bleeding.