Nursing Considerations: Antibacterials

Question 1

• Check pregnancy status in women of childbearing age.
• Check for history of renal or auditory problems.
• Assess carefully for sx of toxicity:
  • Renal labs
  • Decreased Urine Output
  • Numbness/tingling
  • Hearing Loss or Changes

Answer 1

Aminogycosides (antibacterial)

Question 2

• Anticipate need for peak and trough blood levels to titrate dose.
• Encourage good fluid intake.

Answer 2

Aminoglycosides

Question 3

• Need to immediately report tinnitus or hearing changes and numbness/tingling
• Notify provider if pregnancy is planned or if they are breastfeeding; fetal toxic

Answer 3

Aminoglycosides

Question 4

• Monitor for tendon pain or neuropathy.
• Check for history of myasthenia gravis.
• Monitor for hypoglycemia

Answer 4

Fluoroquinolones

Question 5

Give with plenty of fluids

Answer 5

Fluoroquinolones

Question 6

• Photosensitivity – avoid direct sunlight
• Drink 1500 – 2000 mL/day
• Avoid antacids – impeded absorption
• Report to healthcare provider – s/s peripheral neuropathy, increased tendon pain, jaundice, rash.

Answer 6

Fluoroquinolones

Question 7

Same as penicillin plus –
-Disulfiram-like reaction possible if alcohol consumed

Answer 7

Cephalosporins

Question 8

• Check for allergies to penicillin drugs, cephalosporins, or beta-lactamase inhibitors.
• Monitor for nephrotoxicity in patients with pre-existing renal disease.

Answer 8

PCN + Beta-lactam inhibitor

Question 9

Anticipate age-related dosage adjustment in the elderly with renal impairment.

Answer 9

PCN with a Beta-Lactam Inhibitor

Question 10

• check for PCN or cephalosporin allergy
• check for anti-coagulants
• Do not give oral penicillin with citric or grapefruit juice

Answer 10

Penicillin