Cardiac Medications

Question 0

Vasodilator/Nitrostat Nursing considerations are…?

Answer 0

1. Indicated for treatment of angina & to help control BP.

2. May cause orthostatic hypotension

Question 1

Vasodilators name and effects…

Answer 1

Nitroglycerin (Nitrostat)

Prevents coronary artery vasospasm & reduces preload & afterload which decreases myocardial oxygen demand.

Question 2

What should I educate my pt. About Vasodilators such as Nitrostat?

Answer 2

1. Stop activity & rest when chest pain
2. Place nitro under tongue to dissolve
3. If pain unrelieved in 5 minutes pt. Can take 2 more then call 911 if pain has not relieved after 3 tabs in 15 minutes.
4. A headache is common
5. Sit/lie down slowly.

Question 3

What analgesic is given for MI treatment?

Answer 3

Morphine Sulfate (opioid analgesic)

Question 4

What are opioid analgesics (Morphine Sulfate) actions?
What is it indicated for?
What are some effects?

Answer 4

1. Used to treat moderate to sever pain.
2. Analgesics act on the Mu & Kappa receptors that help alleviate pain.
3. May cause respiratory depression, euphoria, sedation, decreased Gi motility

Question 5

What are some nursing considerations r/t morphine?

Answer 5

1. Assess pain Q5-Q15 minutes
2. Monitor for Resp. Depression (if RR <12/min stop med.
3. Monitor for hypotension & N/V

Question 6

What should I educate my pt. R/t Morphine?

Answer 6

Notify nurse of N/V

How to use PCA pump