Pharmacology - Antibiotics, Anti Infectives nursing RN PN (MADE EASY)

Summary

Nurse Mike from SimpleNursing.com offers six top tips for antibiotic administration, emphasizing the importance of completing the full course to prevent superbugs. He advises on precautions with specific antibiotics like penicillin and doxycycline, highlighting potential issues like accidental pregnancy and photosensitivity. Nurse Mike also covers the dangers of nephrotoxic and ototoxic drugs, providing guidance on monitoring kidney function and avoiding alcohol and sun exposure. The video is packed with test tips and mnemonics to aid in memorizing key information for nursing exams.

Takeaways

• 💊 Always finish the full course of antibiotics to prevent super infections and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• 🤰 Be cautious with antibiotics like penicillin and doxycycline as they may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, necessitating additional contraceptive measures.
• 🚫 Avoid alcohol while on antibiotics as it can be hard on the liver, which is already working to process the medication.
• 🍽 Take certain antibiotics like tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones on an empty stomach to ensure better absorption.
• ☀️ Steer clear of direct sun exposure when taking antibiotics that can cause photosensitivity, such as fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines, and sulfa drugs.
• 👂 Be vigilant for signs of ototoxicity in antibiotics ending in 'mycin', which can be harmful to the ears and kidneys, monitoring for symptoms like vertigo and changes in hearing.
• 🩺 Monitor kidney function closely with antibiotics known to be nephrotoxic, checking for increased levels of BUN and creatinine in the blood.
• 🚫 Remember that some antibiotics like metronidazole are not safe during pregnancy and can cause issues like tooth discoloration in children.
• 💊 Patient education is crucial: ensure they understand the importance of completing the full course of antibiotics, potential side effects, and specific precautions.
• 📚 For nursing exams, know the differences between antibiotics, their mechanisms of action, side effects, and nursing considerations to provide safe and effective care.

Q & A

What is the primary reason for finishing all prescribed antibiotics?

The primary reason is to prevent the development of super infections and to avoid creating superbugs such as C. difficile or MRSA.

Why is patient education about completing antibiotic courses important?

Patient education is crucial to ensure they understand the importance of finishing the full course of antibiotics to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

What are the three 'C's related to penicillin and doxycycline that nurses should educate patients about?

The three 'C's are: 1) Contraception - oral contraceptives are ineffective, 2) Childcare - additional contraception should be used, and 3) Cilins - caution with penicillin and doxycycline use.

How does alcohol consumption interact with antibiotics, and why should patients be advised accordingly?

Alcohol can be hard on the liver, which is also affected by many antibiotics. This interaction can lead to increased liver stress, so patients should be advised to avoid alcohol while on antibiotics.

What is the significance of the 'M' in antibiotics like tetracycline and fluoroquinolones, and how should patients be advised?

The 'M' signifies that these antibiotics can cause photosensitivity, increasing the risk of sunburn. Patients should be advised to avoid direct sun exposure and use sunblock.

Why are certain antibiotics considered 'super toxic' to the kidneys and ears, and what should nurses monitor for?

Certain antibiotics, particularly those ending in 'mycin,' can be highly toxic to the kidneys and ears. Nurses should monitor for signs of toxicity such as vertigo, loss of balance, ringing in the ears, and kidney damage indicated by increased BUN and creatinine levels.

What is the difference between the safety profiles of penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Both penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics are generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but specific drugs within these classes may have different safety profiles, and nurses should always check the latest guidelines.

Why is it important to monitor drug concentrations, such as 'Peaks and Troughs,' for certain antibiotics?

Monitoring drug concentrations helps ensure that the levels are within a therapeutic range to effectively treat the infection without causing toxicity to the kidneys or ears.

What are the nursing considerations when administering Vancomycin, and what side effects should be monitored for?

When administering Vancomycin, nurses should consider the potential for 'Red Man Syndrome' due to rapid infusion and monitor blood pressure. The infusion should be slow, and the site should be checked every 30 minutes for signs of irritation. Nurses should also be prepared to manage anaphylactic reactions.

How should nurses approach the administration and patient education for Tetracyclines, and what side effects are commonly associated with them?

Nurses should instruct patients to take Tetracyclines on an empty stomach and to avoid lying down for 30 minutes after taking the medication to prevent esophagitis. They should also be educated about the risk of sunburn and the need for additional contraception due to decreased effectiveness of oral contraceptives.