When a drug is ordered off-label, what must the nurse be clear ...

[Ebrown]

When a drug is ordered off-label, what must the nurse be clear about before administering the drug? (Select all that apply.)
 
  A) Why the drug is being given
  B) Its potential for problems
  C) The research that has been done
  D) The age group it was pretested on
  E) The intended use

Question 2

A geriatric patient received a narcotic analgesic before leaving the post-anesthesia care unit to return to the regular unit. What is the priority nursing action for the nurse receiving the patient on the regular unit?
 
  A) Administer a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
  B) Encourage fluids.
  C) Create a restful, dark, quiet environment.
  D) Put side rails up and place bed in low position.

[Moriaki]

Answer to Question 1

A, B, E
Feedback:
Liability issues surrounding many of these uses are very unclear, and the nurse should be clear about the intended use, why the drug is being given, and its potential for problems. Knowing the age group it was pretested on and knowing the research that has been done are not factors the nurse needs to know before administering the drug.

Answer to Question 2

D
Feedback:
Older patients are more susceptible to the central nervous system effects of narcotics; it is important to ensure their safety by using side rails and placing the bed in the low position in case the patient tries to get up unaided. Postoperative patients are allowed nothing by mouth until bowel function returns so an oral medication or encouraging fluids would not be appropriate. This patient will require careful observation for respiratory depression, so a dark room would be unsafe.

[Ebrown]

Excellent

[sailorcrescent]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it