NURS 1556 Clinical Medications Worksheets
Generic Name Trade Name
Propoxyphene/Napsylate/apap Darvacet N
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or
2-3 hours 15-60 Min 4-6 hours solutions N/A
(Why med ordered)
Mild to moderate pain
Mechanism of action and indications
It binds to opiate receptors in the CNS.
Narcan is the antidote for toxicity
Interactions with other patient drugs,
OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient
specifically)
Increased CNS depression when used
with another depression medication.
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Assess degree of pain “0/10” Assess
location, Type of pain, BP, respirations
and pulse to make sure that they are
within normal levels. Assess Pt closely
for fall risk.
Classification Dose Route Time/frequency
Opiod analgesic 100 mg PO PRN
Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hypersensitivity, Appears on Beer’s list, elderly or
debilitated patients require reduced dosages,
Common side effects
Dizziness, weakness, insomnia, blurred vision, hypotension,
constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, rashes.
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
May increase Lipase, serum levels. May increase AST, ALT,
serum alkaline phospatase LDH and bilrubin. Which
according to recent lab testing the ALT is slightly low, and
the alkaline phos: Is slightly higher than normal values.
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Caution Pt for increase in risk for potential with falls. Advise
patient to move slowly to prevent orthostatic hypotension.
Advise patient to good oral hygiene to help decrease dry
mouth
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not Check after giving
give this med?
Hold drug if the Resp < 12 Pulse Continue to monitor vital
< 60, systolic BP < 100. If no signs and bowel function.
pain... no need drug