140 Must Know NCLEX Meds

140 Must Know NCLEX Meds
Alteplase (t-PA)
*class*: thrombolytics
*Indication*: MI, acute ischemic stroke, occluded central
lines
*Action*: converts plasminogen to plasmin which degrades the fibrin found
*Nursing Considerations*:
- contraindicated in active bleeding
-monitor for anaphylaxis
- use caution with uncontrolled hypertension
2. Atorvastatin
(Lipitor)
*class*: lipid-lowering agent
*Indication*: management of high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia), primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
*Action*: lowers total cholesterol as well as LDL while
slightly increasing HDL. Inhibits HMG-CoA reductase
which plays a role in the liver in cholesterol formation
*Nursing Considerations*
- contraindicated in active liver disease
- may cause rhabdomyolysis
- monitor serum cholesterol
- monitor liver function tests, renal function
3. Acetaminophen
(Tylenol)
*class*: antipyretic, non-opioid analgesic
*Indication*: pain, fever
*Action*: inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins which
play a role in transmission of pain signals and fever response
*Nursing Considerations*:
- do not exceed 4g of acetaminophen per day
- overdose will lead to hepatotoxicity
- **Acetadote**is the antidote for overdose
- may increase risk for bleed with warfarin therapy
4. Acyclovir (Zovirax)
*class*: antiviral, purine analogues
*Indication*:genital herpes, herpes zoster, chicken pox
*Action*: interferes with viral DNA synthesis
*Nursing Considerations*: