Drug Card: Vancomycin Flashcards

Vancomycin Overview

• Generic name: Vancomycin
• Classification: Antibiotic

Mechanism of Action

• Interferes with cell membrane synthesis in bacteria, particularly in multiplying organisms.

Indications for Use

• Effective for treating colitis caused by Clostridium difficile.
• Used to combat Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections.

Contraindications

• Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to vancomycin.
• Contraindicated in individuals allergic to corn or corn products.
• Caution required for patients with previous hearing loss or those using other ototoxic or nephrotoxic drugs simultaneously.
• Not recommended for intramuscular (IM) administration.

Adverse Effects

• Risk of Red Man Syndrome, characterized by flushing and itching of the face and upper body.
• Potential for ototoxicity, leading to hearing impairment.
• Nephrotoxicity, affecting kidney function.

Nursing Implications

• Monitor for extravasation to prevent local skin irritation.
• Manage Red Man Syndrome by reducing IV infusion rate to a minimum of 1 hour.
• Always administer via infusion pump for controlled delivery.
• Trough levels should be measured before the next dose to ensure therapeutic dosing.
• Regular monitoring of serum creatinine levels is essential to assess kidney health.

Routes of Administration

• Administered intravenously (IV) or orally (PO).

Dosage Information

• Peak concentration achieved approximately 30 minutes after the end of IV infusion.

Patient Education

• Instruct patients to report any auditory changes, such as ringing or a feeling of fullness in the ears.
• Encourage adequate hydration with a recommendation of at least 2 liters of fluids per 24 hours.
• Advise against breastfeeding while on this medication.