analgesics/antipyretics, antihistamines, decongestants, and cough suppressants. See Combination Drugs.
Assessment⬆⬇
Assess lung sounds, frequency and type of cough, and character of bronchial secretions periodically during therapy. Maintain fluid intake of 1500–2000 mL/day to ↓ viscosity of secretions.
Implementation⬆⬇
High Alert: Do not confuse guaifenesin with guanfacine.
PO: Administer each dose of guaifenesin followed by a full glass of water to ↓ viscosity of secretions.
DNC: Extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole; do not open, break, crush, or chew.
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Instruct patient to cough effectively. Patient should sit upright and take several deep breaths before attempting to cough.
Caution parents to avoid OTC cough and cold products in children <4 yr.
Advise patient that guaifenesin is a drug with known abuse potential. Protect it from theft, and never give to anyone other than the individual for whom it was recommended. Store out of sight and reach of children, and in a location not accessible by others.
Inform patient that drug may occasionally cause dizziness. Avoid driving or other activities requiring alertness until response to drug is known.
Advise patient to limit talking, stop smoking, maintain moisture in environmental air, and take some sugarless gum or hard candy to help alleviate the discomfort caused by a chronic nonproductive cough.
Instruct patient to contact health care professional if cough persists longer than 1 wk or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache or sore throat.
Rep: Advise females of reproductive potential to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or suspected, or if breastfeeding.
