NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Name TradeName Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

diphenhydramine Benadryl allergy, cold, and 12.5 mg IVP Q 4 hr.PRN
cough remedies, Normal range: 25-50 mg q 4 hr as needed
antihistamines , (may need up to 100mg dose, not to exceed
antitussives 400 mg/day)
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
unknown rapid 4-8 hr Direct IV: May be further diluted in 0.9% NaCl, 0.45% NaCl, D5W,
D10W, D5/0.9% NaCl, D5/0.45% NaCl, D5/0.25% NaCl, Ringer's
solution, LR, and dextrose/Ringer's combinations Rate: Inject 25 mg
over at least 1 min Y-Site Incompatibility: none for this pt
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
suppression of cough Hypersensitivity, acute asthma attacks
Significant CNS depressant and anticholinergic properties
Antagonizes the effects of histamine at H1-receptor sites; does not bind Common side effects
to or inactivate histamine Drowsiness, anorexia, dry mouth

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
↑ risk of CNS depression with other, opioid analgesics , and
sedative/hypnotics
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment) Monitor carefully,
assess for confusion, delirium, other anticholinergic side
effects and fall risk. Institute measures to prevent falls.
Assess movement disorder before and after administration
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Diphenhydramine may decrease skin response to allergy tests.
Discontinue 4 days before skin testing
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication Caution patient not to use oral OTC diphenhydramine
products with any other product containing diphenhydramine,
including products used topically. Inform patient that this drug may
cause dry mouth. Frequent oral rinses, good oral hygiene, and
sugarless gum or candy may minimize this effect. Notify dentist if dry
mouth persists for more than 2 wk
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Decrease in frequency and intensity
sedation and confusion due to increased of cough without eliminating cough
sensitivity to anticholinergic effects. Monitor reflex
carefully, assess for confusion, delirium,
other anticholinergic side effects and fall
risk. Institute measures to prevent falls