Taking the full dose of a prescribed medication is necessary, even if the patient starts to feel better before it is completed.

Some drugs have antidotes, which reverse the effects of the medication. For example, if a patient overdoses on opioids, they can be given Naloxone.

It is important to educate patients on the differences between adverse effects and signs of toxicity, as some medications can be life-threatening when they reach toxic levels.

I know that different drugs have different therapeutic windows. Some of which like warfarin are quite small and should be monitored carefully when a patient is being given those medications.

When asking about medications that our patients are taking we need to be clear that over the counter medications are also important because even though the patient might not think anything about taking an aspirin for a headache it could cause problems if they are getting some kind of procedure or if they are being given certain medications while they are at the hospital.

It is also important to educate patients about all medication they are being given as different ones have different side effects that they should be aware of and know to watch out for. This also lets the patient know what they should expect as normal for the medication and what they should be concerned about.

I know that patient education is important so they can watch out for side effects that could be immediate attention and to stop taking the medication, such as anaphylaxis.

I know that if given an antibiotic or such for 10 days and after 7 days you feel better continue to take the medication because without the full dose it may return and not work properly.

I know that it is important to ask our patients what their medication list is, not only prescribed drugs but OTC as well, and if any of them have changed. OTC medications have some adverse effects with other medications and we want to make sure that it is safe.

Follow the instructions on the prescription: All drugs, but especially antibiotics need to be taken in its complete regimen. This is because the medication will be fully effective, and it does not give surviving bacteria the opportunity to grow and become immune.

Medication Contraindication: Several medications, especially birth control is not compatible with other medications which can lead to adverse effects.

Patient education: Patient education and accessibility is important for people to know in order to safely consume their medications. Providing education to patients is an important role as a nurse.

I know that medications ending in -vir are typically for viruses; during COVID remdesivir was given to most patients.

I know that medications ending in -pam/-lam are typically associated with anxiety medications like lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax), and diazepam (Valium).

I know that acetaminophens do not have anti-inflammatory properties and ibuprofens do, highlighting how they vary and the different mechanisms in the body.