ACTIVE LEARNING TEMPLATE:
Medication
Skylar Hargrave
STUDENT NAME______________________________________
Acetylcysteine
MEDICATION___________________________________________________________________________
REVIEW MODULE CHAPTER____________
System Drugs- Mucolytics
CATEGORY CLASS__Respiratory
_____________________________________________________________________
PURPOSE OF MEDICATION
Expected Pharmacological Action
Decreases the buildup of a hepatotoxic metabolite
in acetaminophen overdosage. Degrades mucus,
allowing easier mobilization and expectoration.
Therapeutic Use
IV USE: Antidote for the management of potentially
hepatotxic overdosage of acetaminophen. Used to protect
kidneys prior to dye studies. INHALATION USE: Reduction
of mucous viscosity associated with thick secretions.
Complications
Anaphylaxis. Angioedema.
Medication Administration
PO 140 mg/kg inititally followed
by 70 mg/kg q 4 hr.
IV loading dose, 150 mg/kg over
1 hr
Contraindications/Precautions
N/A
Nursing Interventions
Interactions
CNS: drowsiness CV: vasodilation EENT: rhinorrhea RESP:
bronchospasm, bronchial/tracheal irritation, chest tightness,
increased secretions GI: n/v, stomatitis DERM: pruritis, rash,
urticaria, clamminess MISC: allergic reactions (primarily w/IV),
chills, fever
Evaluation of Medication Effectiveness
Ability to expectorate mucous secretions clearing the
airway and reducing difficulty in breathing. Reduced levels
of acetaminophen toxicity.
ACTIVE LEARNING TEMPLATES
Keep suction available; as mucous
thins, it may be too copious for client
to expectorate. When used as antidote
in acetaminophen overdose, assess
plasma acetaminophen levels. Monitor
liver function tests, renal function
tests, ECG, BGL, and electrolytes.
Notify HCP if n/v or urticaria occurs.
Client Education
Clear airway by coughing deeply
before taking aerosol inhalation
treatment. There is an unpleasant
odor to this drug. The face may feel
sticky after using the mask
nebulizer and the residue can be
easily cleaned. Suctioning may be
necessary after mucolytic therapy.
Therapeutic Procedure
A7