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Why should aminoglycoside levels be monitored closely?
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Aminoglycosides have a high risk for nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and ototoxicity, requiring careful monitoring of drug levels, including peak and trough levels.
List the primary nursing considerations for patients receiving fluoroquinolones.
Hydrate to prevent crystalluria, monitor for hypoglycemia, administer IV over at least an hour, and be aware of the black box warning for tendonitis and tendon rupture.
What are common reactions to antiviral drugs and why is timing critical?
Common reactions include toxicity to the nervous system. Timing is critical as antivirals inhibit virus reproduction and must be taken at specified intervals for maximum effectiveness.
How do macrolides inhibit bacterial growth?
Macrolides are bacteriostatic; they inhibit RNA synthesis, preventing bacterial protein production.
Why is it important to monitor renal function in patients taking antivirals?
Many antivirals can be nephrotoxic, thus monitoring kidney function is crucial to prevent renal impairment.
Why is culture and sensitivity testing important before starting antimicrobial therapy?
Culture identifies the organism causing the infection, and sensitivity testing determines which antimicrobials are effective against it.
What patient populations should avoid tetracyclines and why?
Children under 8 and pregnant women should avoid tetracyclines due to risks of teeth discoloration and potential effects on fetal development.
What are the uses and key side effects of sulfonamides?
Sulfonamides are used for UTIs, ear infections, bronchitis, and traveler's diarrhea. Key side effects include hypersensitivity and potential kidney impairment.
What factors contribute to the development of drug-resistant pathogens?
Pathogens can mutate and develop resistance, often due to overuse or misuse of antimicrobials, making cautious use of antibiotics essential.
What is the difference between bacteriostatic and bactericidal antimicrobials?
Bacteriostatic antimicrobials slow pathogen reproduction, while bactericidal antimicrobials kill the organism directly.
What nursing considerations are important for administering penicillins?
Monitor for allergies, conduct culture before first dose, administer on an empty stomach, and monitor clotting mechanisms.
What are common side effects and nursing considerations for cephalosporin use?
Side effects include nephrotoxicity and clotting issues. Nursing considerations include caution in renal impairment and seizure disorders, and ensuring culture before the first dose.
Describe the mechanism of action of penicillins.
Penicillins are bactericidal; they attack the bacterial cell wall and cause cell lysis.
Explain the significance of avoiding dairy and iron products when taking tetracyclines.
Dairy and iron products can bind to tetracyclines and reduce their absorption, decreasing the antibiotic's effectiveness.
What distinguishes broad spectrum antibiotics from narrow spectrum antibiotics?
Broad spectrum antibiotics are effective against multiple pathogens, while narrow spectrum antibiotics are effective against specific pathogens.
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