Nursing Pharmacology · NCLEX-RN

Nursing Pharmacology: Antibiotics

Major antibiotic classes with their key nursing considerations, allergy cross-reactivity, and administration timing.

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What severe allergic reaction is the primary concern with penicillin administration?
Anaphylaxis
Why should cephalosporins be given cautiously to a patient with a penicillin allergy?
Cross-reactivity between penicillins and cephalosporins can trigger an allergic reaction
Which common penicillin can be taken with food, unlike many other penicillins?
Amoxicillin
What should patients avoid taking with tetracyclines because it reduces drug absorption?
Dairy products, antacids, and iron supplements, since calcium and other cations bind the drug
Why are tetracyclines avoided in children under 8 and during pregnancy?
They cause permanent tooth discoloration and affect bone growth
What skin precaution should patients on tetracyclines be taught?
Use sunscreen and avoid excess sun exposure due to photosensitivity
Which lab values must be monitored to detect aminoglycoside-induced kidney damage?
BUN and creatinine
What sensory function should be monitored during aminoglycoside therapy due to ototoxicity risk?
Hearing and balance
Why are peak and trough levels drawn for aminoglycosides?
They have a narrow therapeutic index, so levels must be monitored to avoid toxicity while ensuring effectiveness
How are aminoglycosides typically administered, and why?
IV or IM, because they are poorly absorbed orally
Infusing vancomycin too rapidly can cause ____, a flushing reaction of the face, neck, and trunk.
Red Man Syndrome
When should a vancomycin trough level be drawn?
Immediately before the next scheduled dose
What musculoskeletal injury is a known risk with fluoroquinolone use?
Tendon rupture, especially of the Achilles tendon
Why are fluoroquinolones generally avoided in children and pregnant patients?
They can damage developing cartilage
What should patients avoid taking near the time of a fluoroquinolone dose?
Dairy products, antacids, and calcium, iron, or zinc supplements

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