Final answer:
Metaxalone (Skelaxin) is a muscle relaxant that requires specific nursing considerations related to monitoring its effectiveness, being aware of patient history, watching for side effects, educating the patient on usage, and avoiding interactions with alcohol or CNS depressants.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nursing Considerations for Metaxalone (Skelaxin)
Metaxalone, sold under the brand name Skelaxin, is a muscle relaxant prescribed to relieve pain and discomfort caused by strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal conditions. When administering Metaxalone, nurses should consider the following:
- Assessing the level of pain and degree of muscle spasm before and after administration to evaluate the drug's effectiveness.
- Checking for a history of drug allergies, liver or kidney impairment, which could affect how the patient processes the medication.
- Monitoring the patient for any side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or nervousness, and advising them to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if they experience these effects.
- Understanding that Metaxalone should not be used with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants as the combination can enhance side effects.
- Teaching the patient about the importance of following the prescribed dosage and advising against sudden discontinuation of the medication without consulting a healthcare provider.
Furthermore, the nurse should collaborate with other healthcare professionals to deliver holistic care, as managing musculoskeletal pain often involves a multidisciplinary approach.