What Are the Key Pharmaceutical Factors to Consider?
Several key pharmaceutical factors need consideration in nursing practice:
Drug Composition: The chemical makeup of a drug can affect its efficacy and safety. Nurses must be aware of active ingredients, excipients, and potential allergens. Formulation: Drugs come in various formulations such as tablets, capsules, liquids, and injectables. The choice of formulation affects absorption, distribution, and administration. Dosage: Accurate dosing is vital to achieve therapeutic effects while minimizing adverse reactions. Nurses must be proficient in calculating and adjusting doses based on patient factors. Route of Administration: The method by which a drug is administered (oral, intravenous, intramuscular, etc.) influences its onset of action and overall effectiveness. Patient Factors: Age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and comorbidities can impact how a drug is metabolized and excreted. Nurses must consider these factors to tailor medication regimens to individual patients.
