Brand Name vs Generic Name: What Should Nurses Know?
Nurses should be well-versed in both brand and generic names of medications. While brand names are more commonly used in practice, understanding generic names is crucial for several reasons:
Interchangeability: Generic drugs are often equivalent to brand-name drugs in terms of efficacy and safety, but at a lower cost. Patient Education: Educating patients about the equivalence of generic and brand-name drugs can help them make informed decisions. Cross-Referencing: Nurses should be able to cross-reference brand and generic names to avoid confusion and ensure accurate medication administration.
