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Laboratory MedicinePlan
Therapeutic drug monitoring for narrow therapeutic index medications
Meaning
Measuring serum drug concentrations at intervals to maintain therapeutic levels within a narrow range, optimizing efficacy and minimizing toxicity.
Clinical Context
Used for medications where the therapeutic dose is close to the toxic dose, requiring careful monitoring to ensure patient safety and medication effectiveness.
Example Usage
"Therapeutic drug monitoring will be initiated for digoxin to ensure therapeutic levels and prevent toxicity."
Usage Context
Monitoring of drug levels like digoxin, phenytoin, vancomycin, and certain immunosuppressants.
Related Phrases
Serum drug levelsTherapeutic rangeToxicity monitoringPharmacokinetic monitoring
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about using medical phrases in clinical documentation
When documenting "Therapeutic drug monitoring for narrow therapeutic index medications" in your clinical notes, ensure it's placed in the appropriate section (Plan) and provides clear, accurate information about the patient's condition. Always follow your institution's documentation guidelines and ensure the phrase accurately reflects the patient's clinical status.
This phrase is clinically significant because used for medications where the therapeutic dose is close to the toxic dose, requiring careful monitoring to ensure patient safety and medication effectiveness. It helps healthcare providers understand the patient's condition and make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment planning.
While this phrase is commonly used in Laboratory Medicine, similar documentation may be applicable across multiple specialties when the clinical context is appropriate. Always ensure the phrase accurately describes the patient's condition regardless of the specialty context.