7 Safety with Other High-Alert Medications Free Online FlashCards

Which medication groups are high-alert in acute care?

In acute care, high-alert medications include neuromuscular blocking agents, intravenous sedatives, and intravenous adrenergic agonists such as norepinephrine and epinephrine.

Why can accidental neuromuscular blocker administration be fatal?

They can paralyze the muscles needed for breathing, and accidental administration can be fatal.

How should neuromuscular blockers be stored?

Restrict them to designated, secured locations with clear warnings; follow facility procedures if one is found elsewhere.

Does paralysis from a neuromuscular blocker prove unconsciousness or pain relief?

No. Paralysis prevents purposeful movement and communication, but does not establish unconsciousness or relieve pain.

What must continue during a continuous neuromuscular blocker infusion?

Maintain prescribed sedation and analgesia, ventilatory support, and appropriate monitoring.

Why is shallow, slow breathing during sedation concerning?

Sedatives can impair ventilation and airway protection; reduced responsiveness with abnormal breathing requires prompt attention.

What is the immediate response to suspected respiratory compromise during sedation?

Recognize possible respiratory compromise, summon help, and support airway and breathing while following the emergency protocol.

Should intervention wait until oxygen saturation falls during sedation?

No. Respond promptly to concerning breathing or responsiveness; do not wait for oxygen saturation to fall.

What support is needed during procedural sedation?

Appropriate monitoring and personnel able to recognize and respond to airway complications are required.

What should be verified when preparing a norepinephrine infusion?

Verify the order, drug, concentration, patient, pump settings, and titration parameters before administration.

Which safeguards help reduce infusion-pump medication risk?

Use standardized concentrations and the smart-pump drug library when available to reduce administration risk.

How should a vasoactive infusion line be checked?

Label the line and trace it from the container through the pump to the patient.