Sample Drug Card for Aspirin Generic name: Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid) Trade name: ASA, Bayer, Alka-Seltzer,

Aspergum, Empirin Classification: Analgesic, Salicylate; Antipyretic; Antiplatelet Action: Inhibits the formation of prostaglandins involved in the production of inflammation, pain, and fever. Inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing ability of blood to clot. Indications: To relieve pain of low to moderate intensity. Also for various inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, lupus, tendonitis. To reduce fever in selected febrile conditions. Used to reduce recurrence of TIA, risk of stroke, recurrence of MI. Routes: po, rectal Dosage: For mild to moderate pain, fever: Adults: po/pr 350-650 mg. q4h (max: 4 g/d). For thromboembolic disorders: Adults: po 81-325 mg. qd. Major side effects: Nausea, heartburn, stomach pains, tinnitus, hearing loss, petechiae, easy bruising, hypersensitivity (urticaria, anaphylactic shock), hemolytic anemia Nursing implications: Give with full glass of water (240 ml.), milk, food or antacid to minimize gastric irritation. Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers with symptoms of varicella (chickenpox) or influenza-like illnesses because of association of aspirin usage with Reyes syndrome. Use enteric-coated tablets, extended release tablets, buffered aspirin to reduce GI disturbances. DC aspirin therapy about 1 wk before surgery to reduce risk of bleeding. Discontinue aspirin use with onset of ringing or buzzing in the ears, impaired hearing, dizziness, GI discomfort or bleeding and report to physician. Consult MD before using aspirin for any fever accompanied by rash, severe headache, stiff neck, marked irritability or confusion (signs of meningitis). Observe and report signs of bleeding (petechiae, ecchymoses, bleeding gums, bloody or black stools, cloudy or bloody urine). Feverfew, garlic, ginger, ginkgo may increase bleeding potential. Sample Drug Calculation Physician order: Potassium chloride elixir 8 meq orally. Available medication: Potassium chloride elixir 5 meq/5 ml. How many ml. would you give?