Pharmocology

Question 1

Allergic reactions:

Answer 1

Always ask about allergies,
especially to penicillins and cephalosporins,
which have cross-reactivity. If a client develops
signs of anaphylaxis, administer epinephrine.

Question 2

Trough monitoring: .

Answer 2

For vancomycin and
aminoglycosides, monitor trough levels to avoid
ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity

Question 3

Photosensitivity:

Answer 3

Teach clients taking
fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines, or sulfonamides
to avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen.

Question 4

Tendon rupture:

Answer 4

Teach clients taking
fluoroquinolones to report tendon pain or
swelling immediately, especially in the
Achilles tendon.

Question 5

All antibiotics:

Answer 5

Only treat bacterial infections, not viruses
Teach clients to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve.

Question 6

Penicillins
amoxicillin
penicillin G
piperacillin

Cephalosporins
cefazolin
ceftriaxone
cephalexin

Answer 6

Cautions:
Penicillins and cephalosporins share cross-reactivity: Clients allergic to one may
be allergic to the other.
Ask about and document the specific type of reaction.

Question 7

Glycopeptides
vancomycin

Aminoglycosides
gentamicin
tobramycin

Answer 7

Monitor trough levels for toxicity.
Considerations:
Nephrotoxicity: Monitor BUN, creatinine, urine output.
Ototoxicity: Monitor for tinnitus, dizziness.
Vancomycin can cause red man syndrome: Infuse over at least 60 min. If
client develops flushing, slow the infusion.

Question 8

Fluoroquinolones
ciprofloxacin
levofloxacin
moxifloxacin

Answer 8

Cautions:
Tendon rupture: Report any tendon pain or swelling.
Considerations:
Photosensitivity: Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen.

Question 9

Macrolides
azithromycin
erythromycin

Answer 9

Cautions:
QT prolongation: Monitor ECG.

Question 10

Tetracyclines
doxycycline
tetracycline

Answer 10

Considerations:
Tooth discoloration: Do not give to pregnant women or children under 8.
Do not take with milk, antacids, or iron supplements.
Photosensitivity: Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen.

Question 11

Sulfonamides
sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim
sulfadiazine

Answer 11

Cautions:
Assess for allergies to sulfa drugs.
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: Immediately notify HCP of any new rash.
Considerations:
Crystalluria: Drink plenty of water.
Photosensitivity: Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen.