acetylcysteine Flashcards
what is the trade name for acetylcysteine
Mucomyst
what is the classification for acetylcysteine
L-cysteine derivative (mucolytic)
what do mucolytics do
break down mucus
what is the pharmcotherapeutic (use) for acetylcysteine
used to liquefy the thick, tenacious secretions to help them get removed. Used with CAL (chronic airway limitation), CF (cystic fibrosis), PNA (pneumonia), TB. Can be used during diagnostic bronchoscopy to remove secretions
how is acetylcysteine administered
inhalation
what is the onset of acetylcysteine
1 minute
what is the peak of acetylcysteine
5-10 minutes
what is the pharmacodynamics of acetylcysteine
it splits disulfide bonds that are responsible for holding the mucous material together
what are the C/I and precautions of acetylcysteine
- hypersensitive. use caution in asthma pts as it may cause bronchospasm
- IV form of med used cautiously. if reaction is seen, have diphenhydramine (Benadryl) ready.
what are the A/E of acetylcysteine
bronchospasm, bronchoconstriction, chest tightness, a burning feeling in the upper airway, and rhinorrhea (runny nose)
what are the D/I of acetylcysteine
no important drug interactions have been reported for acetylcysteine
what health status would you assess for pts taking acetylcysteine
perform a physical examination to establish baselines
what are the life span and gender for acetylcysteine
determine pregnancy and lactation status
what environment would you assess for pts taking acetylcysteine
usually given in an supervised environment
how would you maximize the therapeutic effects of acetylcysteine
administer an inhaled beta agonist before administering acetylcysteine
how would you minimize the A/E of acetylcysteine
inform the pt that nebulization may produce an initially disagreeable odor, but that this odor is transient
what are the patient and family education for acetylcysteine
- explain the rationale for receiving acetylcysteine
- inform pts that they must not take this drug w/o the assistance of a respiratory therapist
- teach pts and their family members all aspects of pulmonary hygiene
what are the ongoing assessment and evaluation of acetylcysteine
for the pt receiving acetylcysteine for its mucolyitc effects, assess the pt for proper techniques of pulmonary hygiene and respiratory status
