Explanation should include the
- reasons for monitoring
- definitions of
- therapeutic level
- toxic level
- factors that determine dosage (e.g., age, weight, activity level)
- most frequently monitored medications
- blood thinners
- anti-seizure medications
- asthma medications
- barbiturates
- psychotropic medications
- administration of high doses
- factors that can interfere with testing
- time between first dose and blood test
- consuming medications other than the ones being monitored
- prescription medications
- OTC medications
- alcohol
- marijuana
- street drugs or any illegal substances
- responsibilities of facility staff
- monitoring HCP orders for blood level requests
- ensuring test is done, when ordered routinely
- ensuring results are reported to the HCP
- reporting unusual signs/symptoms related to medication levels.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What types of medications require therapeutic levels or blood monitoring?
- What is the difference between a therapeutic level and a toxic level?