1 Common Adverse Drug Reactions Free Online FlashCards

What is a therapeutic effect?

A therapeutic effect is the intended benefit of a medication, such as pain relief or reduced blood pressure.

What defines an adverse drug reaction?

An adverse drug reaction is an unwanted, harmful response that occurs at a usual medication dose.

How can dose affect predictable adverse reactions?

Many common adverse reactions are predictable from a drug’s known actions and may become more likely or troublesome as the dose increases.

Does a predictable side effect automatically mean an emergency?

A predictable side effect is not automatically an emergency, but it should still be assessed and documented.

How can you distinguish a medication benefit from an adverse response?

Compare the patient’s response with the medication’s intended effect to distinguish benefit from an unwanted response.

What should be assessed about a possible adverse reaction?

Assess how bothersome or concerning the response is; its significance should not be assumed from the symptom alone.

What should guide the response to a medication effect?

Follow the patient’s care plan and facility policy when responding to a medication effect.

When may a nurse independently change or stop a medication?

Do not independently change or stop a medication unless authorized by an order or applicable protocol.

When should a medication-related symptom be escalated promptly?

Escalate promptly when symptoms are severe, worsening, or outside the expected pattern.

With an opioid, how should pain relief and mild nausea be interpreted?

Pain relief is the intended effect of an opioid analgesic; nausea is a possible adverse effect.

What is the intended effect of a diuretic used for edema?

Reduced swelling is the intended therapeutic effect of a diuretic when treating edema.

Which diuretic-related responses may warrant assessment as unwanted effects?

Increased urination is an expected action of many diuretics; dry mouth or light-headedness when standing may warrant assessment as unwanted effects.