Question

A nurse is preparing to administer a drug to a client. In which of the following sections of a drug handbook should the nurse look to determine if the drug has more than one use?

1) adverse effects
2) indications
3) pharmacokinetics
4) nursing implications

Answer 1

The nurse should check the indications section of a drug handbook to find out if a drug has multiple uses. The pharmacokinetics section is also relevant but for understanding the drug's absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, which are crucial for correct dosage and administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Drug Handbook Sections for Multiple Drug Uses

When a nurse is preparing to administer a drug and needs to determine if the drug has more than one use, they should look in the indications section of a drug handbook. This section outlines the medical conditions or diseases for which the drug is approved, which may include multiple uses for a single drug. In contrast, the adverse effects section details potential negative side effects, pharmacokinetics covers the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the drug, and nursing implications provide guidance on administration, monitoring, and patient education for the nurse.

The pharmacokinetics of a drug are essential from the discovery to the post-marketing phase of drug development. Understanding the pharmacokinetic attributes of drugs is significant for determining the dosage and route of administration, which influences the efficacy and safety profile of the treatment. Variables such as the presence of food, drug-drug interactions, and patient-specific characteristics can affect the side effects and overall therapeutic outcome.