NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets

(You will need to make additional copies of these forms)

Generic Name Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Naloxone Narcan Antidotes (for 0.2 IVP PRN
opioids)
Peak Onset Duration Normal dosage range
1-2 min 45 min 0.02-0.2 mg q 2-3 min until response obtained; repeat q 1-2
Unknown hr if needed

Why is your patient getting this medication
Reversal of CNS depression and respiratory
depression because of suspected opioid overdosage
Mechanism of action and indications
(Why med ordered)
Competitively blocks the effects of opioids, including
CNS and respiratory depression, without producing any
agonist (opioid-like) effects
Reversal of signs of opioid excess
For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or
solutions
Administer undiluted for suspected opioid overdoseFor
patients with opioid-induced respiratory depression, dilute 0.4
mg of naloxone in 10 ml of sterile water or 0.9% NaCl for
injection. Rate: Administer at a rate of 0.1-0.4 mg over 15
seconds in patients with suspected opioid overdose
Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hypersensitivity
Resuscitation equipment, oxygen, vasopressors, and
mechanical ventilation should be available to supplement
naloxone therapy as needed
Common side effects
none

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or Lab value alterations caused by medicine
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) none
None for this pt
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
As medication becomes effective, explain purpose and
effects of naloxone to patient
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment Evaluation
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
Monitor respiratory rate, rhythm, and depth; med? Alertness without significant
pulse, ECG, blood pressure; and level of Only give for suspected opioid pain or withdrawal
consciousness frequently for 3-4 hr after the symptoms
expected peak of blood concentrations.
overdose/toxicity
After a moderate overdose of a short half-
life opioid, physical stimulation may be
enough to prevent significant
hypoventilation. The effects of some opioids
may last longer than the effects of
naloxone, and repeat doses may be
necessary
Assess patient for level of pain after
administration when used to treat
postoperative respiratory depression.
Naloxone decreases respiratory depression
but also reverses analgesia