PHARMACOLOGY

Having the correct patient information before administering medication is essential. Nurses must know the correct patient name, and make positive identification by checking the patient's ID bracelet. Other important information includes patient age, weight, drug allergies, diagnoses, and record of medication administration.

Drug Information Nurses must be knowledgeable about the medications they give to patients. Indications, adverse reactions, and typical dosages are most important. Drugs are matched to the patient's condition before they are administered Decimal Point Placement Frequently nurses must calculate drug dosages for patients. Wrong decimal placement can lead to giving a patient an overdose 10 times the normal dosage. It is important for nurses to know how to perform calculations manually as there may be situations where calculators or drug delivery devices are unavailable.

Place Markers Remember to always use a zero for a place marker if there is no other number in front of the decimal. This way you are protected against falsification/alteration of your entry Verbal Orders Verbal orders are those that are not written, but are instead, verbalized by the prescriber, usually told to the nurse over the telephone. They are for emergency situations only and are very risky. Every medical facility typically has a protocol for verbal orders, and includes policies such as having another nurse present on the phone line to witness and verify, and spelling out drug names. The "5 Rights" The "5 Rights" of Medication Administration refer to: Right Patient, Right Route, Right Dose, Right Time, and Right Medication. These are essential pharmacology basics taught to every nursing student. Each of them should be addressed before medications are given to patients.