Drug Legislation in Canada: PNUR124

Questions and Answers

Which type of drugs are classified as restricted access and physically kept behind the counter?

Acetaminophen

Insulin (correct)

Ibuprofen

Anti-histamines

What is a potential disadvantage of over-the-counter (OTC) medications?

They may relieve symptoms but not address the underlying cause. (correct)

They can replace the need for prescribed medication.

They require a prescription to purchase.

They are always safe with no side effects.

How does nursing practice intersect with other healthcare professions?

Nurses work collaboratively with pharmacists and physicians for medication administration. (correct)

Nurses only focus on patient education without collaboration.

Nurses prescribe medications independently from physicians.

Nurses take the lead in surgical procedures.

Which of the following best represents the role of a nurse in medication administration?

To ensure patient safety through preparation and administration of medications. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of over-the-counter medications?

They allow health care professionals to focus on sicker patients. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a requirement for safe medication administration by nurses?

Strictly following patient self-reports. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary purposes of the Food and Drugs Act?

To protect consumers from unsafe drugs Signup and view all the answers

Which agency is responsible for enforcing the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act?

RCMP Signup and view all the answers

How are drugs categorized under the Food and Drugs Act?

According to Schedules Signup and view all the answers

What type of drugs must be accessed with prescription only?

Controlled drugs Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following drugs can be sold without a prescription according to the CDSA?

Acetaminophen with Codeine 8 mg Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act?

Control and sale of narcotics and substances of abuse Signup and view all the answers

Where can over-the-counter (OTC) drugs be purchased?

In any store without professional supervision Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of prescription drugs compared to over-the-counter medications?

Higher potential for abuse Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Drug Legislation in Canada

The foundation of Canadian drug laws is based on two main acts: the Food and Drugs Act and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA).

Food and Drugs Act

Primarily aims to protect consumers from contaminated or unsafe drugs.
Addresses labeling issues with drugs that contain false or misleading information.
Administered by Health Canada at the federal level.
Drugs categorized under this Act follow a Schedule system.

Category System for Drugs

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drugs: Accessible without prescription.
Prescription-Only Drugs: Require a healthcare provider's authorization, with higher potential for abuse.
Restricted Access: Includes controlled drugs and narcotics available only under certain conditions.

Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA)

Governs the control and sale of narcotics and substances prone to abuse.
Enforced by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Lists drugs under 8 distinct Schedules, separate from those in the Food and Drugs Act.

Prescriptions and Low Dose Codeine

CDSA allows the sale of certain low-dose codeine preparations without prescriptions, available exclusively from pharmacists.
Examples include Acetaminophen with Codeine 8 mg (Tylenol #1) and Calmylin (cough suppressant).

Non-Prescription Drug Categories

Restricted Access Drugs: Kept behind the pharmacy counter (e.g., insulin, Tylenol #1).
Pharmacy-Only Drugs: Sold in pharmacies, such as antihistamines and ulcer medications.
Retail Drugs: Available in various stores (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen).

OTC Drugs: Pros and Cons

Advantages:
- Convenient access for consumers.
- Enables self-treatment for minor ailments.
- Allows healthcare professionals to focus on more serious cases.
- Contributes financial benefits to the healthcare system.
Disadvantages:
- Some products relieve symptoms but do not address underlying issues.
- May delay the pursuit of necessary medical care.
- Risk of misuse or adverse drug interactions.
- Insufficient medication teaching for consumers.

Nursing Role in Medication Management

Nurses collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including physicians and pharmacists, for medication management.
Preparation and administration of medications must adhere to safety standards.
Regulatory frameworks vary based on healthcare settings (hospitals, long-term care, home care).
Critical thinking is essential for making informed clinical judgments.
Patient safety is the top priority for nursing practice.

Description

Delve into the essential aspects of drug legislation in Canada with a focus on the Food and Drugs Act and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). This quiz will help you understand the core purposes of these acts and their impact on consumer safety. Perfect for students in PNUR124 Revised Winter 2019.