4.2. Introduction-to-Prescribing-Medication 30 Aug.pdf

Providing safe and effective medication management is a critical responsibility for nurses. This lesson will guide you through the essential steps in the medication prescribing process, from understanding your scope of practice to educating clients on adherence.

1. Introduction to
Prescribing
Medication
Providing safe and effective medication management is a critical
responsibility for nurses. This lesson will guide you through the
essential steps in the medication prescribing process, from
understanding your scope of practice to educating clients on
adherence.
by chantal settley

2. Understanding the Nursing
Scope of Practice
1
Collaboration with
Physicians
Work closely with
physicians to ensure
appropriate medication
orders.
2
Medication Knowledge
Develop a deep
understanding of
pharmacology and the
effects of different
drugs.
3
Ethical Considerations
Prescribe only within your authorized scope and with the
client's best interests in mind.

3. Gathering Client Medical History
Comprehensive Assessment
Thoroughly review the client's
complete medical history,
including past diagnoses, current
symptoms, and any existing
medications.
Vital Signs and Labs
Collect and analyze the client's
vital signs, lab results, and any
other relevant clinical data.
Allergy Screening
Identify any known drug allergies
or sensitivities to ensure safe
medication selection.

4. Identifying Appropriate
Diagnoses
Evidence-Based Practice
Utilize clinical guidelines
and research to determine
the most accurate
diagnoses.
Client-Centered Care
Consider the client's
unique circumstances and
preferences when
selecting diagnoses.
Interprofessional Collaboration
Work with the healthcare team to ensure diagnoses are
comprehensive and aligned.

5. Selecting Appropriate
Medications
1
Mechanism of Action
Understand how the medication works to address the
client's condition.
2
Contraindications
Carefully consider any potential interactions or adverse
effects based on the client's medical history.
3
Client Preference
Incorporate the client's values and preferences into the
medication selection process.

6. Calculating Proper Dosages
Accurate Measurements
Precisely calculate the appropriate dosage based on the client's weight, age, and other
factors.
Dosing Schedule
Determine the optimal frequency and timing of medication administration.
Dose Adjustments
Be prepared to modify dosages as needed based on the client's response and any
changes in their condition.

7. Monitoring for Side Effects and
Interactions
Ongoing Evaluation
Regularly assess the client's response to the medication
and monitor for any adverse effects.
Communication with Clients
Educate clients on potential side effects and encourage
them to report any concerns.
Collaboration with Providers
Work closely with the healthcare team to identify and
manage any medication-related issues.

8. Client Education and Medication
Adherence
Medication Purpose Clearly explain the reason for the
prescribed medication and how it will
benefit the client.
Dosing Instructions Provide clear, easy-to-understand
instructions on how and when to take
the medication.
Potential Side Effects Educate clients on possible side
effects and what to do if they occur.
Importance of Adherence Emphasize the significance of taking
the medication as prescribed to
achieve the best outcomes.

9. Ethical Considerations in
Prescribing
1
Patient Autonomy
Respect the client's
right to make informed
decisions about their
own care.
2
Beneficence
Prioritize the client's
well-being and act in
their best interests.
3
Non-Maleficence
Strive to avoid harm
and minimize the risk of
adverse effects.
4
Justice
Ensure fair and
equitable access to
appropriate medication
treatments.

10. Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Comprehensive Approach
Medication prescribing requires a
holistic understanding of the client,
their medical history, and the
appropriate treatment options.
Collaboration and
Communication
Effective medication management
involves close collaboration with
the healthcare team and clear
communication with clients.
Ongoing Learning and
Improvement
Staying up-to-date with the latest
evidence-based practices and
continuously refining your skills
are essential for providing the best
possible care.