Keflex Medication Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the generic name for Keflex?

Ceftriaxone

Cefixime

Cephalexin (correct)

Cefazolin

What is the classification of Keflex?

Anti-infective (cephalosporin)

What is Keflex used for?

Treatment of bacterial infection

What is the action of Keflex?

Binds to bacterial cell wall membrane, causing cell death. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are potential side effects of Keflex? (Select all that apply)

Pain at injection site Signup and view all the answers

Assessment for Keflex includes checking for infection, WBC count, and _______.

history of cephalosporin or penicillin allergic reaction Signup and view all the answers

Match the following assessments with their corresponding purpose for Keflex:

Assess for infection = Check vital signs and wound appearance Monitor bowel function = Identify gastrointestinal side effects Assess for rash = Detect potential allergic reactions Watch for allergic reaction = Prevent severe complications Signup and view all the answers

What laboratory tests should be monitored before and after administering Keflex?

WBC count Signup and view all the answers

Keflex should be taken _____ and the full dose completed.

around the clock Signup and view all the answers

What should patients be informed to report while on Keflex?

Signs of superinfection, rash, fever, or diarrhea Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Keflex Overview

Generic Name: Cephalexin
Trade Name: Keflex

Classification

Type: Anti-infective
Category: Cephalosporin

Indications and Use

Primarily used for treating bacterial infections.

Mechanism of Action

Functions by binding to the bacterial cell wall membrane, resulting in cell death.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal cramps
- Rashes and itching
- Pain at injection site
- Potential for seizures
- Risk of allergic reactions
- Possibility of secondary infections

Assessment Prior to Administration

Conduct thorough infection assessment:
- Vital signs monitoring
- White blood cell (WBC) count evaluation
- Wound appearance examination
Review history for allergic reactions, specifically to cephalosporins or penicillin.
Monitor bowel function for any abnormalities.
Check for the presence of rash and watch intensely for any signs of allergic reactions.

Laboratory Tests

Assess WBC counts both before and after the administration of Keflex.
Conduct culture and sensitivity tests to determine the appropriate bacterial response.

Implementation Guidelines

Ensure clear differentiation between Keflex and other medications to prevent confusion.
Advise patients to complete the entire prescribed dose and maintain regular timing (around the clock).
Note that taking the medication with food can help reduce stomach upset.

Patient Teaching

Emphasize the importance of taking the medication consistently and completing the full course without doubling doses.
Instruct on reporting any signs of superinfection, such as rashes, fever, or diarrhea, to prompt timely intervention.

Description

Test your knowledge of Keflex with these flashcards covering its generic name, classification, uses, and action. Each card provides key information to help you understand this commonly prescribed antibiotic. Perfect for nursing students or healthcare professionals preparing for medication administration.