Maternal and Newborn Drug Information

Study Notes

Erythromycin Ophthalmic

Generic Name: Erythromycin ophthalmic; Brand Names include Eyemycin, Roymicin, Ilotycin.
Classification: Antiinfective antibiotic; Pregnancy risk category B.
Mechanism of Action: Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of ribosomes in various bacteria.
Indication: Prevents ophthalmic neonatorium and neonatal blindness in newborns.
Dosage: 0.5% ointment applied topically (50 mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses for 14 days).
Adverse Reactions: Include fatigue, fever, QT interval prolongation, arrhythmias, hearing loss, abdominal pain, diarrhea, jaundice, and fluid overload.
Interactions: Notable for increased risks of cardiotoxicity with certain drugs (e.g., astemizole, cisapride) and rhabdomyolysis with statins.
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to erythromycin or other macrolides, and specific drug interactions.
Nursing Considerations: Monitor eye exams, intraocular pressure, and evaluate liver and kidney functions; educate parents on proper application.

Phytonadione (Vitamin K)

Class: Vitamin; also functions as an antidote.
Importance: Newborns are deficient in Vitamin K, increasing their bleeding risk until they consume solid food.
Administration: Recommended intramuscular dose of 0.5 to 1 mg within one hour of birth, with higher doses for mothers on anticoagulants.
Adverse Effects: Potential site reactions such as pain, swelling, or soreness.

Bacitracin Ointment

Generic Name: Bacitracin topical; Brand Name: Baciguent.
Class: Antibiotic.
Usage: Topical application for prevention of infections; contraindicated in individuals allergic to bacitracin, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly.

Hepatitis B Vaccine (Engerix-B)

Disease Overview: Hepatitis B is a viral infection causing liver inflammation, vomiting, jaundice, and potential severe outcomes like liver cancer.
Spread: Transmission occurs via blood, bodily fluids, sexual contact, or from infected mother during childbirth.
Vaccination: Recommended for all newborns starting at birth; particularly crucial for at-risk groups (e.g., children of hepatitis carriers, those on dialysis).
Administration: A series of muscle injections beginning shortly after birth, with booster doses commonly at 1 and 6 months; accelerated schedule for high-risk children.

HBIG (Hyperhep B Immune Globulin)

Type: Disease-Specific Immunoglobulins - Antiviral.
Purpose: Contains antibodies against hepatitis B surface antigen; provides passive immunity for those exposed to HBV.
Administration: Single dose of 0.5 mL IM, providing protection that may last for up to 2 months.

Description

This quiz focuses on essential drug information for maternal and newborn care, featuring erythromycin ophthalmic. It covers generic and brand names, classifications, pregnancy categories, and mechanisms of action. Test your knowledge on important medications used in newborn treatment.