Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Introductory Clinical Pharmacology Chapter 23 Sedatives and Hypnotics
Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Introduction to Sedatives and Hypnotics “Hypnotic” –Drug that induces drowsiness or sleep; Usually given at night or hour of sleep (HS) “Sedative” –Drug that produces a relaxing, calming effect. Usually given given during day time hours 3 Classes –Barbiturates –Non-Barbiturates –Benzodiazepines
Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Medications to Recognize: Sedatives and Hypnotics Benzodiazepines – temazepam (Restoril) – flurazepam (Dalmane) Non-Benzos – eszopiclone (Lunesta) – zolpidem tartrate (Ambien) Barbituates –Pentobarbital (Nembutal)
Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Sedatives and Hypnotics: Actions and Uses Actions: Nervous system depression; mood alteration; hypnosis; deep coma Used as adjuncts for anesthesia; preoperative sedation; conscious sedation
Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Sedatives and Hypnotics: Adverse Reactions Nervous system reactions –Dizziness, drowsiness, and headache Gastrointestinal (GI) reaction –Nausea
Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Nursing Process: Assessment Preadministration assessment –Identify and record vital signs and assess the patient’s needs –Evaluate the patient’s level of consciousness and general mental state
Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Nursing Process: Assessment (cont’d) Ongoing assessment –Assess the vital signs and level of consciousness each time before administering the drug –Check if drug helped patient sleep on previous nights –Consult primary health care provider regarding time interval between administration of drugs
Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Nursing Process: Evaluation The therapeutic effect is achieved; sleep pattern improved Adverse reactions are identified, reported, and managed Patient verbalizes an understanding of what to avoid while taking drug
Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. End of Presentation