1. Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. What and when to report Medication adverse effects

2. Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Higher risks Older adults are at a higher risk for adverse effects.  Multiple medications can interact.  Declines in kidney function hamper the aging body’s ability to excrete excess medicine.  Declines in liver function make it more difficult for the aging body to process medicines. September 2014Medication adverse effects

3. Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Adverse reactions Medications can have negative effects on many body systems:  Skin  Sensory organs  Brain  Cardiovascular system  Gastrointestinal system September 2014Medication adverse effects

4. Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Adverse skin reactions  Rashes  Increased sensitivity to the sun September 2014Medication adverse effects

5. Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Adverse sensory reactions  Increased visual sensitivity to light  Blurred vision  Double vision  Dry eyes  Eye disease  Hearing impairments September 2014Medication adverse effects

6. Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Adverse neurological reactions  Changes in cognition  Changes in balance  Sleepiness or lethargy  Slurred speech  Dizziness  Agitation or confusion ** Look especially for any sudden changes in these areas September 2014Medication adverse effects

7. Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Adverse gastrointestinal reactions  Black, tarry stools, bleeding  Loss of appetite  Nausea  Vomiting  Constipation  Diarrhea September 2014Medication adverse effects

8. Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Adverse cardiovascular reactions  Difficulty breathing  Sudden change in heart rate  Sudden change in blood pressure  Unsteadiness when standing up September 2014Medication adverse effects

9. Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. How CNAs can help  Look for the signs of an adverse medication reaction.  Document vital signs accurately and promptly.  Minimize distractions when medicines are given.  Report new symptoms to the nurse, especially those that occur suddenly. September 2014Medication adverse effects