Side effects

Definition

Side effects are unintended and often adverse outcomes that occur when a medication is administered. They can range from mild to severe and may affect patient compliance and safety.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Side effects can occur at any time during drug therapy, including initial administration or after prolonged use.
2. Nurses must monitor patients for side effects to ensure timely intervention and maintain patient safety.
3. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, headache, and allergic reactions.
4. Side effects can be influenced by factors such as age, weight, genetics, and concurrent medications.
5. Documentation of side effects is crucial for legal purposes and ongoing patient care.

Review Questions

• What are some common examples of side effects that nurses should monitor?
• How can patient-specific factors influence the occurrence of side effects?
• Why is it important to document any observed side effects in a patient's medical record?

Related terms

Adverse Effects:

Unintended harmful outcomes caused by medication that may require medical intervention.

Drug Interactions:

Situations where one drug affects the activity of another drug when both are administered together.

Pharmacovigilance:

The process of monitoring the safety of medications in real-world use to identify and evaluate adverse effects.