Cardiac

Question 1

Enoxaparin (SQ)

Answer 1

Indication: Prevention of VTE, DVT and PE

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity

Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting

Adverse Reactions: Bleeding, edema, alopecia

Nursing Considerations: Assess for S/S of bleeding, Assess for signs of increased thrombosis, Monitor for hypersensitivity reaction

Patient Teachings: instruct patient on correct technique for self-injection care and disposal, Report any symptoms of unusual bleeding or bruising. Don’t take NSAIDs without consulting doctor.

Question 2

Atorvastatin Calcium (PO)

Answer 2

Indication: Management of high cholesterol, Prevention of CAD

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, Active liver disease

Side Effects: Constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, heartburn

Adverse Reactions: Chest pain, insomnia, memory loss

Nursing Considerations: Obtain baseline lipid profile before treatment, obtain diet history (fat consumption)

Patient Teachings: Take medication exactly as prescribed, medication should be implemented along with diet/ exercise changes

Question 3

Heparin (SQ)

Answer 3

Indication: Thromboembolitic disorders (VTE/ PE)

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, Uncontrolled bleeding, Open wounds

Side Effects: Rash, pain at injection site

Adverse Reactions: Bleeding, Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, alopecia, osteoporosis

Nursing Considerations: Assess for S/S of bleeding before and during therapy, Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions, Assess for increased thrombosis

Patient Teachings: Report any symptoms of unusual bleeding or bruising immediately, Don’t take NSAIDS without consulting HCP, Avoid activities that may lead to injury, Use soft toothbrush and electric razor during therapy

Question 4

Nitroglycerin patch (Topical)

Answer 4

Indication: Long-term prophylactic management of angina pectoris

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, Increased inter-cranial pressure, Severe anemia

Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting

Adverse Reactions: Hypotension, Contact dermatitis

Nursing Considerations: monitor BP and pulse before and after administering, Assess location, duration, intensity and precipitating factors during therapy

Patient Teachings: Take drug exactly as directed, Change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic hypotension, Inform HCP if dry mouth or blurred vision occur