Page 2150 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

5. Photosensitivity

6. Liver toxicity

C. Interventions

1. Obtain a medical history and ask about current
medications being taken.
2. Monitor vital signs.
3. Monitor for CNS effects.
4. Assess for risk of injury.
5. Assess involved joints and muscles for pain and
mobility.
6. Monitor renal function studies.
7. Instruct the client to take the medication with food to
decrease gastrointestinal upset.
8. Instruct the client to report adverse effects.
9. Instruct the client to avoid alcohol and CNS
depressants.
10. Instruct the client to avoid activities requiring
alertness, such as driving or operating equipment.

Monitor liver function tests when a client is taking a skeletal

muscle relaxant, because hepatotoxicity can occur.
D. Nursing considerations

1. Baclofen

a. Baclofen causes CNS effects such as
drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, and
fatigue and nausea, constipation, and
urinary retention.
b. Administer with caution in the client
with renal or hepatic dysfunction or a
seizure disorder.
c. Baclofen can be administered by the
primary health care provider (PHCP)
through intrathecal infusion using an
implantable pump or by direct
intrathecal administration over 1
minute.
d. Instruct the client with an implantable
pump to maintain medication refill
appointments to prevent the pump
from emptying and experiencing
sudden withdrawal symptoms, which
could be life-threatening.

2150