Top 10 Must-Know Medications for Nursing Students and How to Remember Them

? Why These Medications Matter

In nursing school and clinical practice, certain medications appear frequently due to their widespread use and importance in patient care. Mastering these drugs gives you a solid pharmacology foundation and prepares you to administer medications safely and confidently.

? Top 10 Must-Know Medications for Nursing Students

Here’s a rundown of essential drugs every nursing student should understand:

1. Lisinopril

  • Class: ACE inhibitor

  • Use: Hypertension, heart failure

  • Key points: Monitor blood pressure and potassium levels; watch for cough and angioedema.

2. Metformin

  • Class: Biguanide

  • Use: Type 2 diabetes

  • Key points: Monitor blood glucose; watch for lactic acidosis; take with food.

3. Furosemide

  • Class: Loop diuretic

  • Use: Edema, hypertension

  • Key points: Monitor electrolytes (especially potassium); assess fluid status.

4. Warfarin

  • Class: Anticoagulant

  • Use: Prevent blood clots

  • Key points: Monitor INR/PT; educate on bleeding risks and diet interactions.

5. Morphine

  • Class: Opioid analgesic

  • Use: Severe pain management

  • Key points: Monitor respiratory rate; assess for sedation and constipation.

6. Albuterol

  • Class: Beta-2 agonist

  • Use: Asthma, COPD

  • Key points: Monitor for tachycardia; teach proper inhaler technique.

7. Digoxin

  • Class: Cardiac glycoside

  • Use: Heart failure, atrial fibrillation

  • Key points: Check apical pulse before administration; monitor for toxicity.

8. Prednisone

  • Class: Corticosteroid

  • Use: Inflammation, autoimmune diseases

  • Key points: Monitor blood sugar; watch for immunosuppression.

9. Amoxicillin

  • Class: Penicillin antibiotic

  • Use: Bacterial infections

  • Key points: Check for allergies; complete full course.

10. Sertraline

  • Class: SSRI antidepressant

  • Use: Depression, anxiety

  • Key points: Monitor mood changes; watch for serotonin syndrome.