Generic Name albuterol

Trade Name Ventolin

Peak 0.52 h

Onset 515 min

Classification Dose Route BRONCHODILA 90mcg Inhaled TOR (RESPIRATORY SMOOTH MUSCLE RELAXANT); BETAADRENERGIC AGONIST Duration Normal dosage range 36 h 12 inhalations q46h

Time/frequency q6h

Why is your patient getting this medication Being used as PRN for shortness of breath.

For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions

Mechanism of action and indications (Why would this med be ordered) Moderately selective beta2-adrenergic agonist with comparatively long action. Acts prominently on beta2 receptors (particularly smooth muscles of trachea, bronchi, uterus, and vascular supply to skeletal muscles). Inhibits histamine release by mast cells. Produces bronchodilation by relaxing smooth muscles of bronchial tree. Bronchodilation decreases airway resistance, facilitates mucous drainage, and increases vital capacity.

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions CONTRAINDICATIONS Albuterol or levalbuterol hypersensitivity; congenital long QT syndrome. Use of oral syrup in children younger than 2 CAUTIOUS USE Cardiovascular disease, renal impairment, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, elderly, history of seizures; hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines or to fluorocarbon propellant used in inhalation aerosols; pregnancy ( category C). INTERACTIONS With epinephrine, other SYMPATHOMIMETIC BRONCHODILATORS, possible additive effects; MAO INHIBITORS, TRICYCLIC ANTIDEPRESSANTS potentiate action on vascular system; BETAADRENERGIC BLOCKERS antagonize the effects of both drugs. Common side effects Body as a Whole: Hypersensitivity reaction. CNS: Tremor, anxiety, nervousness, restlessness, convulsions, weakness, headache, hallucinations.

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) Seroquel: There is some concern that quetiapine may have additive adverse cardiovascular effects in combination with other drugs that are known to prolong the QT interval of the electrocardiogram.

CV: Palpitation, hypertension, hypotension, bradycardia, reflex tachycardia. Special Senses: Blurred vision, dilated pupils. GI: Nausea, vomiting. Other: Muscle cramps, hoarseness. Lab value alterations caused by medicine Transient small increases in plasma glucose may occur. Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Review directions for correct use of medication and inhaler. Avoid contact of inhalation drug with eyes. Do not increase number or frequency of inhalations without advice of physician. Notify physician if albuterol fails to provide relief because this can signify worsening of pulmonary function and a reevaluation of condition/therapy may be indicated. Albuterol can cause dizziness or vertigo; take necessary precautions. Do not use OTC drugs without physician approval. Many medications (e.g., cold remedies) contain drugs that may intensify albuterol action. Evaluation Check after giving Monitor therapeutic effectiveness which is indicated by significant subjective improvement in pulmonary function within 6090 min after drug administration. Monitor for: S&S of fine tremor in fingers, which may interfere with precision handwork; CNS stimulation, particularly in children 26 y, (hyperactivity, excitement, nervousness, insomnia), tachycardia, GI symptoms. Report promptly to physician. Lab tests: Periodic ABGs, pulmonary functions, and pulse oximetry. Consult physician about giving last albuterol dose several hours before bedtime, if drug-induced insomnia is a problem.

Nursing Process- Assessment (Pre-administration assessment) 1. Assess lung sounds, pulse, and blood pressure before administration and during peak of administration. 2. Monitor pulmonary function tests. 3. Observe for wheezing.

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this med? Undesirable side effects.