Understanding the Importance of Drugs to Know for NCLEX-RN 2022
Knowing the drugs commonly tested on the NCLEX-RN is vital because questions often focus on medication administration, side effects, patient teaching, and nursing interventions. The exam emphasizes safe medication practices, so familiarity with drug classifications, indications, contraindications, and nursing actions helps ensure safe patient care and enhances exam performance.
Key Drug Categories to Focus On
To prepare effectively, it’s helpful to organize drugs into categories based on their therapeutic use. Below are the main categories and notable drugs within each.
1. Cardiovascular Drugs
These are frequently tested due to their widespread use and critical side effects.
- ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril, Enalapril): Used for hypertension and heart failure. Watch for side effects like cough, hyperkalemia, and angioedema.
- Beta-Blockers (e.g., Metoprolol, Propranolol): Lower blood pressure and HR; caution in asthma patients.
- Diuretics:
- Loop diuretics (Furosemide): Potent, cause hypokalemia, dehydration.
- Thiazide diuretics (Hydrochlorothiazide): Also cause electrolyte imbalances.
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (Spironolactone): Risk of hyperkalemia.
- Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., Amlodipine, Diltiazem): Manage hypertension and angina; side effects include edema and bradycardia.
- Vasodilators (e.g., Hydralazine): Used to reduce blood pressure; monitor for reflex tachycardia.
2. Respiratory Drugs
Respiratory medications are crucial for managing asthma, COPD, and other pulmonary conditions.
- Beta-Agonists (e.g., Albuterol): Rescue inhalers; monitor for tachycardia and tremors.
- Inhaled Corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone): Reduce inflammation; watch for oral thrush—advise rinsing mouth after use.
- Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists (e.g., Montelukast): Long-term control of asthma; assess for neuropsychiatric side effects.
3. Antibiotics and Antimicrobials
Knowledge of these drugs is essential to prevent resistance and manage infections.
- Penicillins (e.g., Amoxicillin): Allergic reactions common; monitor for hypersensitivity.
- Cephalosporins (e.g., Cephalexin): Cross-reactivity with penicillin allergies; assess renal function.
- Aminoglycosides (e.g., Gentamicin): Ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity are concerns; monitor kidney function and hearing.
- Tetracyclines (e.g., Doxycycline): Photosensitivity risk; avoid in pregnancy and children.
- Macrolides (e.g., Azithromycin): Cardiac arrhythmias risk; assess for drug interactions.
4. Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs
These medications are critical for preventing thrombotic events.
- Warfarin: Monitor INR; bleeding risk; avoid foods high in vitamin K.
- Heparin: Monitor PTT; used in hospital settings.
- Low Molecular Weight Heparins (e.g., Enoxaparin): Administer subcutaneously; monitor for bleeding.
- Aspirin: Prevents platelet aggregation; watch for bleeding and GI upset.
5. Central Nervous System (CNS) Drugs
Important for managing seizures, depression, and anxiety.
- Antiepileptics (e.g., Phenytoin, Levetiracetam): Monitor serum levels; watch for neurotoxicity.
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) (e.g., Fluoxetine): Treat depression; assess for suicidal ideation.
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (e.g., Amitriptyline): Side effects include anticholinergic symptoms.
- Anxiolytics (e.g., Diazepam): Watch for sedation and dependency.
6. Endocrine Drugs
Involved in diabetes management and hormone replacement.
- Insulins:
- Rapid-acting (Lispro, Aspart): Administer before meals; monitor blood glucose.
- Long-acting (Glargine): Once daily; no peak.
- Oral Hypoglycemics (e.g., Metformin): Risk of lactic acidosis; monitor kidney function.
- Thyroid medications (Levothyroxine): Take on an empty stomach; monitor thyroid function tests.
7. Gastrointestinal Drugs
These medications treat acid-related disorders and GI motility issues.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole): Reduce gastric acid; long-term use may increase fracture risk.
- H2 Blockers (e.g., Ranitidine): Decrease acid production.
- Laxatives (e.g., Bisacodyl): Used for constipation; avoid overuse to prevent dependency.
Essential Nursing Considerations for Medications
Understanding the nursing implications of these drugs is as important as knowing their names and uses.
1. Assessment and Monitoring
- Assess baseline vital signs and lab values before administering drugs (e.g., blood pressure, blood glucose, renal function).
- Monitor for side effects and adverse reactions regularly.
- Evaluate the patient’s response to medication, including therapeutic effects and potential toxicity.
2. Patient Education
- Instruct patients on proper medication administration techniques, such as inhaler use or insulin injections.
- Advise about potential side effects and when to seek medical help.
- Emphasize the importance of adherence to prescribed regimens and follow-up appointments.
3. Safety and Precautions
- Always verify allergies before administering new medications.
- Follow the "seven rights" of medication administration—right patient, drug, dose, time, route, documentation, and reason.
- Be aware of drug interactions that can alter efficacy or increase toxicity.
Resources for NCLEX-RN Drug Preparation
Effective study involves utilizing multiple resources. Here are some recommended tools:
- NCLEX-RN Practice Questions: Practice questions help familiarize you with exam formats and common drug-related questions.
- NCLEX-RN Review Books: Many review books include drug tables and mnemonics.
- Online PDFs and Cheat Sheets: Search for updated NCLEX-RN drug guides in PDF format for quick review.
- Mobile Apps: Use NCLEX prep apps that include drug flashcards and quizzes for on-the-go study.
Conclusion
Mastering the drugs to know for NCLEX-RN 2022 is a fundamental part of your exam preparation. Focus on understanding the pharmacology, nursing considerations, and patient teaching points for each drug category. Regular review, practice questions, and utilizing reliable resources will enhance your readiness. Remember, the goal is not just to pass the exam but to become a competent and safe nurse, equipped with the knowledge to provide excellent patient care. Stay organized, keep practicing, and use this guide as a stepping stone toward
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common side effects of opioids that nurses should monitor for?
Common side effects of opioids include respiratory depression, constipation, sedation, nausea, and hypotension. Nurses should monitor respiratory rate, bowel movements, level of consciousness, and blood pressure regularly.
Which medication is used as an antidote for opioid overdose?
Naloxone (Narcan) is the primary antidote used to reverse opioid overdose by rapidly binding to opioid receptors and displacing opioids.
What are the key nursing considerations when administering benzodiazepines?
Nurses should monitor for sedation, respiratory depression, and potential dependence. It's important to assess the patient's level of consciousness regularly and avoid concurrent use with alcohol or other CNS depressants.
Which drug class does metformin belong to, and what is its primary use?
Metformin belongs to the biguanide class and is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus by decreasing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity.
What are the major adverse effects associated with statins like atorvastatin?
Major adverse effects include muscle pain or weakness (myopathy), elevated liver enzymes, and, rarely, rhabdomyolysis. Liver function tests should be monitored regularly.
Why is it important for nurses to understand the mechanism of action of anticoagulants like warfarin?
Understanding warfarin's mechanism helps nurses monitor for bleeding complications, adjust dosages appropriately, and educate patients on dietary restrictions related to vitamin K intake to maintain therapeutic INR levels.
