Nursing

Tips to prevent adverse drug reactions

Stressed Out Nurses Weekly, April 30, 2007

The key to reducing adverse drug reactions (ADRs) is through awareness and recognition of potential problems. Drug errors are usually due to human error-regardless of whether harm results in the client. You can prevent ADRs by following the practices validated by evidence-based research and using discerning clinical skill when administering drugs.

Avoid potential serious ADRs by

  • Performing drug research prior to the administration of drugs
  • Practicing the basic "Five Rights" of drug administration: right client, right drug, right dose, right route, right time
  • Assess the client at frequent intervals, especially when a drug is initially administered
  • Alert the physician immediately upon noticing any signs and symptoms of potential problems

Source: Stressed Out About Drug Interactions, HCPro Inc., 2007. For more information on our series of Stressed Out books, visit www.stressedoutnurses.com

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