Abbreviations
Some abbreviations used in prescriptions
| Abbreviation | Latin | English |
| a.c. | ante cibum | Before food |
| ad lib. | ad libitum | To the desired amount |
| b.d. or b.i.d. | bis in die | Twice a day |
| c. | cum | With |
| o.m. | omni mane | Every morning |
| o.n. | omni nocte | Every night |
| p.c. | post cibum | After food |
| p.r.n. | pro re nata | Whenever necessary |
| q.d. | quaque die | Every day |
| q.d.s. | quaque die sumendum | Four times daily |
| q.i.d. | quater in die | Four times daily |
| q.q.h. | quater quaque hora | Every four hours |
| R. | recipe | Take |
| s.o.s. | si opus sit | If necessary |
| stat. | statim | At once |
| t.d.s. | ter die sumendum | Three times daily |
| t.i.d. | ter in die | Three times daily |
Chapter 1 Introduction to pharmacology
Ian Peate
Aim
The aim of this chapter is to provide the reader with an introduction to therapeutic pharmacology and the key issues surrounding medicines management.
Learning outcomes
After reading this chapter, the reader will be able to:
1 Discuss the importance of patient assessment in association with medicines management
2 Understand the role of the Code and other professional duties
3 Appreciate the importance of the proficiencies of pre‐registration nurse education related to medicines management
4 Acknowledge and respect patient preference
Test your knowledge
1 What is the nursing process?
2 Describe the keys skills that are associated with patient assessment.
3 Discuss the role and function of the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
4 What does medicines optimisation mean?
5 Discuss risk management strategies in medicines management.
Introduction
There has been a vast increase in the use of therapeutic agents for medical treatment. The administration of medicines is a common yet important clinical activity. The way in which a medicinal product is administered can determine whether the patient gains any therapeutic benefit or if they will experience any adverse effects from their medicines. The volume and complexity of medication administration contributes to the actual and potential risk of medication errors, which will have a negative impact on a person's health and wellbeing.
The key requirement of a healthcare provider is to ‘do no harm’, and this is particularly important when the nurse is working with people who have been prescribed medication. The administration of medicines is but one part of the nurse's role; an understanding of pharmacology is essential if the nurse is to provide care that is safe and effective. As well as an understanding of pharmacology, the nurse is also required to work with patients and their families in explaining how to administer the medication, explaining the anticipated effects, the action(s) of the medications and the potential adverse reactions or side effects.
Patient assessment
When a patient is admitted to a healthcare facility (regardless of the setting), an initial assessment must be undertaken which has to include a detailed medication history. Information must be obtained from the patient (and, if appropriate, the patient's family), and information may also be collected from the patient's pharmacy and/or the general practitioner with their permission. In addition, any medications that have been brought in by the patient must be documented and kept in a safe location. At all times, local policy and procedure must be adhered to.
Assessment is the first stage in the planning of care,