The nurse is setting up an intravenous infusion pump to administer a dose of vancomycin [Vancocin] to a patient. What is the fastest rate at which the drug may be infused?
60 minutes
30 minutes
90 minutes
45 minutes
The Correct Answer is A
Vancomycin is often administered over at least 60 minutes to reduce the risk of infusion-related reactions, such as "Red Man Syndrome," which is characterized by flushing, rash, and itching. This reaction is caused by the rapid infusion of vancomycin, leading to the release of histamine.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Gentamicin: Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic effective against many bacteria, but it's not the first choice for MRSA. Vancomycin or other alternatives are preferred due to the rising resistance of MRSA to gentamicin.
B. Nafcillin: Nafcillin is a penicillin antibiotic, often used for penicillin-sensitive staphylococcal infections. However, it is not effective against MRSA, which is resistant to many penicillin-based antibiotics.
C. Vancomycin: Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including MRSA. It works by inhibiting cell wall synthesis in bacteria, making it effective against Gram-positive bacteria that have developed resistance to other antibiotics like methicillin (which MRSA has).
D. Penicillin: Penicillin is a group of antibiotics that includes drugs like amoxicillin and ampicillin. MRSA is resistant to penicillin-based antibiotics, so they are not effective against MRSA infections.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Obtaining all cultures before the antibiotic is administered: While obtaining cultures is important for identifying the specific pathogen causing the infection and guiding targeted antibiotic therapy, waiting for culture results can take time. During this time, the infection can progress. Therefore, it's generally recommended to initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics first and then adjust the treatment based on culture results.
B. Delaying administration of the antibiotic until the culture results are available: Delaying antibiotics until culture results are available can be risky, as it allows the infection to progress, potentially leading to sepsis or other severe complications.
C. Administering antipyretics as soon as possible: Administering antipyretics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and make the patient more comfortable. However, the primary intervention for a suspected infection is antibiotic therapy, as it targets the underlying cause of the fever.
D. Administering the antibiotic immediately: When dealing with a patient with a fever of unknown origin and a suspected infection, the priority is to start appropriate antibiotic therapy promptly. Delaying antibiotic administration can allow the infection to worsen, leading to serious complications.
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