Nurse Key

10 Antihistamines The term ‘antihistamine’ refers to H2 receptor antagonists and are subdivided into sedating antihistamines and non-sedating antihistamines. Uses include:  Antiemetics for nausea and vomiting (see Chapter 8)  Emergency…

5 Anticoagulants Anticoagulants are substances used to prevent blood clotting. The student should be aware of:  factors predisposing to thromboembolism  local protocols for management of thromboembolism  the antagonist for such…

4 Antibiotics Antibiotics are produced by certain bacteria or fungi that interfere with or prevent the growth of other bacteria/fungi. They are used in infection or as prophylaxis, e.g. in…

18 Intravenous Fluids Solutions of electrolytes and water are given intravenously, to meet normal fluid and electrolyte requirements or to replenish substantial deficits or continuing losses, when the patient is…

1 Anaesthesia These drugs depress part of the central nervous system, causing the loss of sensation in a part of or in the whole of the body. There are two…

2 Analgesics These preparations are used to relieve pain without causing unconsciousness or lack of all nervous sensation in a particular area. It is important to become familiar with pain…

14 Contraceptives This is a general term to describe an agent used to prevent conception. As part of their sphere of practice, midwives have a duty to offer family planning…

24 Vaccines A vaccine is a suspension of dead or disabled organisms that, when ingested or injected, prevents, lessens or treats infections or disease. The most commonly used vaccines in…

22 Prostaglandins (PGE2) Prostaglandins are hormones secreted by various body tissues, e.g. uterine and cardiac muscle, semen and the lungs. Prostaglandins are used to ripen the cervix and stimulate the…

23 Rectal Preparations – Laxatives and Haemorrhoid Preparations Laxatives These are medicines that loosen the bowel content and encourage evacuation. They are also known as aperients. Use of certain laxatives…