title: Preventing perioperative adverse drug reactions.
abstract: The purpose of this article is to help nurses prevent adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in the perioperative, endoscopic, and special procedure areas. Up to 30% of hospitalized patients experience an ADR. Taking comprehensive medication histories, maintaining constant vigilance, and recognizing inherently dangerous patient/medication combinations are essential in preventing ADRs. The mechanisms of medication toxicity and identifying potentially preventable adverse reactions are discussed. Practical nursing guidelines and tips that patients can use to prevent ADRs from occurring are delineated. Not every ADR can be prevented, but informed nurses can implement measures to reduce their occurrence.
authors.affiliation: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA.
authors.forename: Alaine L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Pribisko
mesh_terms: D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D006801:Humans; D008487:Medical History Taking / Q000592:standards; D008499:Medical Records; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D013527:Perioperative Nursing / Q000379:methods*