Module 10
Explain the process when you have a patient who needs cultures and has an anti-infective prescribed?
Cultures before the medication, always.
Why?
A patient comes in wanting some antibiotics, but it is deemed they have a viral infection, what do you do?
Explain why antibiotics are not helpful during viral infections and why they are not receiving one.
What are all the uses for trimethoprim/Sulfamenthoxazole?
UTI, bronchitis, otitis media, pneumonitis
What is the therapeutic action of penicillin?
inhibition of cell wall biosynthesis
What are examples of common superinfections? (Hint: name 3)
Vaginal Yeast infections, GI yeast infections, & most recently C-Diff. has been associated.
What is the concern with Tetracyclines usage in children?
Use tetracyclines with caution in children younger than 8 years of age because they can potentially damage developing bones and teeth.
How is resistant bacteria developed?
What do you need to watch out for when giving pediatric patients anti-infectives?
They are more susceptible to their adverse effects - prioritization needs to be made to hydration and nutritional status.
What is an assessment priority for a patient taking gentamicin?
This medication is an Aminoglycoside. Renal and hearing are assessment priorities because this medication is hard on these 2 areas. Renal or hepatic disease that could be exacerbated by toxic aminoglycoside effects and that could interfere with drug metabolism and excretion, leading to higher toxicity; preexisting hearing loss, which could be intensified by toxic drug-related adverse effects on the auditory nerve. Ototoxicity should be reported, and the drug should be stopped.
What is a superinfection, how do they occur, and why do they occur?
Opportunistic infections. When pathogens that are kept in check by "normal" flora bacteria are presented with the opportunity to invade tissues and they take it! When taking anti-infectives - especially broad spectrum - they not only wipe out the bacteria but good bacteria as well.
What assessment to prioritize with aminoglycosides?
When clients are taking aminoglycosides, it is important they be monitored closely for any sign of renal dysfunction. These medications are very hard on their kidneys.
Patient education regarding ampicillin?
Discoloration of the tongue may occur but will subside when the drug is discontinued.
What is the therapeutic action for anti-infectives? (Hint: there are 5)
Biosynthesis, Using essential substances, Protein synthesis, interferes with DNA synthesis, and alters the permeability of the cell membrane- which leaks out the cell's essentials.
Drug of choice to treat anthrax?
Levofloxacin or Cipro...
Patient education regarding Tetracyclines regarding absorption?
Tetracycline should be taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2-3 hours after meals with a full eight ounces of water to ensure full absorption. Tetracycline is usually taken at least once every 12 hours.