Erica Adams, age 26, comes to the nurse-run clinic at the universitywith complaints of a cold and flu-like symptoms. Erica

  

Erica Adams, age 26, comes to the nurse-run clinic at the universitywith complaints of a cold and flu-like symptoms. Erica is concerned about her illness because she is attempting to study for final exams. She states that her cough is keeping her up at night. Per your clinic protocol, you suggest comfort measures, including rest and increased fluids, a stream vaporizer, and OTC pseudoephedrine and dextromethorphan. Data were obtained from the nursing assessment include the following: – Complaints of fatigue, body aches, cough, nasal congestion and mild fever- Vital signs: temperature, 99.1; pulse, 90; respiration, 20; blood pressure, 98/68- Head: no sinus tenderness- Eyes: no erythema or watery drainage – Ears: mild injection bilaterally; no evidence of acute infection- Nose: marked nasal congestion – Neck: no nodes – Chest: clear to auscultation but increased bronchial sounds throughout the chest. Harsh nonproductive cough noted.- Cardiac: regular rate and rhythm, no murmur, rubs, or gallopsThe patient’s current medications include the use of pseudoephedrine, 30 to 60 mg PO every 4 to 6 hours, and dextromethorphan, 30 mg PO every 4 to 8 hours. 1. How do these drugs work together to address Erika’s underlying pathologic conditions?2. What other medications may have been considered for treating Erika’s symptoms?3. What patient variables are most important to consider for Erika when assessing her drug therapy?4. Are there any aspect of core drug knowledge that are especially relevant to consider because they may interact with the core patient variables? 5. Which findings from the nursing assessment demonstrate the effectiveness of drug therapy?6. Which findings from the nursing assessment demonstrate possible adverse affect from drug therapy?7. What actions are indicated to maximize therapeutic effects?8. What actions are indicated to minimize adverse effects?9. What teaching is required for Erika regarding her drug therapy? Do you need any additional data to determine appropriate teaching? Health Science Science Nursing Share (0)