UTHCPC Procedures - Glucose Monitoring System

High Alert Medication Policy

Introduction

SME: Director of Pharmacy
Last Review Date: 10/30/08

Introduction:

High-alert medications are drugs that bear a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when they are used in error. Use this list to determine which medications require special safeguards (i.e. corresponding monitoring and/or responses) when prescribed.

Name of Med

High Alert Monitoring/Response

COUMADIN, HEPARIN

* Monitor lab work and drug/drug interactions

* Monitor for drug disease contraindications

DIETICIAN

* Dietician notified for food/drug interaction

NURSE RESPONSE

* Check labwork before giving dose

* Notify physician of concerns

INSULIN

* Monitor lab work and drug interactions

* Monitor dose and appropriatenedd of order

DIETICIAN

* Dietician notified for food/drug interaction

NURSE RESPONSE

* Monitor patient's blood sugar level/symptoms

* Double check dose accuracy prior to giving

* Notify physician of concerns

MOOD STABILIZERS

* Monitor lab work and drug interactions

* Monitor for MUE criteria

NURSE RESPONSE

* Monitor patient's response to medication

* Awareness of usual side effect of drowsiness and possible additive effects with other psychotropics (possible contributing factor to falls)

ANXIOLYTICS
ANTIPSYCHOTICS
ANTIDEPRESSANTS

* Monitor for MUE criteria

* Monitor for drug/drug interactions

* Monitor for drug/disease interactions

NURSE RESPONSE

* Monitor patient's response to medication

* Awareness of usual side effect of drowsiness and possible additive effects with other psychotropics (possible contributing factor to falls)

ANTIBIOTICS

* Monitor lab work and drug interactions

* Monitor for MUE criteria

* Monitor for renal adjustments

NURSE RESPONSE

* Monitor patient's response to medication

* Awareness of usual side effect and possible contributing factor to falls

Related standard

Related to regulatory standards

If you have questions regarding the content of this site please contact the Policy and Procedure Committee. If you experience any technical problems please contact the MIS Department.