The Nurse's Role in Medication As to your third interview question, the subject of medication is a topic that a nurse is required to discuss with the patient and significant others. This comes under the realm of patient teaching. Make certain that you get the nurse to explain what your medications are for and what side effects can occur. Even those who already know their drugs and side effects should ask for an explanation to make sure that the nurse knows it too. Additionally, it is necessary to find out if there should be any concerns about interactions between two or more medicines. If you find that your nurse does not specifically know the details of your medications, find out if there is a drug reference book at the nurses' station, as there should be, and say that you expect your nurse to look it up. If you are not satisfied with the nurse's response, then it is time to be concerned about the person who may become the first line of defense for you or your loved one.