PIPERACILLIN TAZOBACTAM

Question 1

BRAND NAME

Answer 1

Zosyn

Question 2

DRUG CLASS

Answer 2

Anti-infectives

Question 3

THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

Answer 3

Piperacillin: Binds to bacterial cell wall membrane, causing cell death. Spectrum is extended compared with other penicillins. Tazobactam: Inhibits betalactamase, an enzyme that can destroy penicillins.

Question 4

INDICATIONS

Answer 4

Appendicitis and peritonitis.
Skin and skin structure infections. Gynecologic infections.
Community-acquired and nosocomial pneumonia caused by piperacillin-resistant, beta-lactamase–producing bacteria.

Question 5

SIDE EFFECTS

Answer 5

CNS: SEIZURES (HIGHER DOSES), confusion, dizziness, headache, insomnia, lethargy. GI: PSEUDOMEMBRANOUS COLITIS, diarrhea, constipation, drug-induced hepatitis, nausea, vomiting. GU: interstitial nephritis. Derm: rashes (↑ in cystic fibrosis patients), urticaria. Hemat: bleeding, leukopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia. Local: pain, phlebitis at IV site.

Question 6

NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES

Answer 6

Monitor signs of allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, including pulmonary symptoms (tightness in the throat and chest, wheezing, cough dyspnea) or skin reactions (rash, pruritus, urticaria). Notify physician or nursing staff immediately if these reactions occur.

Watch for seizures; notify physician immediately if patient develops or increases seizure activity.

Question 7

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Answer 7

Patients known with sensitivity to this drug, especially penicillin.