Ophthalmic Erythromycin Overview

Questions and Answers

What is the mechanism of action of erythromycin?

Binds to 50s ribosomal subunit resulting in blockage of transpeptidation

What is the therapeutic category of erythromycin?

Antibiotic ophthalmic

For what indications would erythromycin be utilized? (Select all that apply)

Treatment of ocular infections (correct)

Treatment of headaches

Prophylaxis of ocular inflammation due to C.trachmatis

Prophylaxis of ophthalmia neonatorum due to N.gonorrhoeae (correct)

What are the precautions for using erythromycin?

For ophthalmic use only; do not touch tip of applicator or let tip of applicator touch eye Signup and view all the answers

What are some adverse reactions related to erythromycin? (Select all that apply)

Hypersensitivity Signup and view all the answers

How may erythromycin affect drug interactions?

Erythromycin may increase the concentration of vitamin K antagonists (warfarin) Signup and view all the answers

How is erythromycin administered?

Ophthalmic - store from 68F to 77 degrees F Signup and view all the answers

What nursing implications are relevant when administering erythromycin? (Select all that apply)

No adverse effects in animal reproduction studies Signup and view all the answers

What patient teaching is necessary related to erythromycin?

Patient may experience eye redness; immediately report vision changes, eye pain, or severe eye irritation Signup and view all the answers

What key points should be included when administering erythromycin to an infant?

Medication can be delayed until the first breastfeeding; excess can be wiped off after one minute Signup and view all the answers

Erythromycin ointment is and .

bacteriostatic, bacteriocidal Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Mechanism of Action

Erythromycin binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting transpeptidation during protein synthesis.

Therapeutic Category

Classified as an antibiotic specifically for ophthalmic use.

Indications

Treats ocular infections effectively.
Prophylactic use for ophthalmia neonatorum caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis.

Warnings and Precautions

Intended for ophthalmic use only.
Avoid contact between the applicator tip and the eye to prevent contamination.

Adverse Reactions

Possible hypersensitivity reactions.
Minor ocular irritation and redness may occur.
Can cause chemical conjunctivitis lasting 24-48 hours and temporary blurred vision.

Drug Interactions

Erythromycin may elevate levels of vitamin K antagonists like warfarin.

Administration Guidelines

Administered ophthalmically; store between 68°F and 77°F.

Nursing Implications

Pregnancy risk factor is categorized as B with no adverse effects noted in animal studies.
Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers, recommending administration within the first 1-2 hours after birth.

Patient Education

Patients should be informed about possible eye redness after administration.
Immediate reporting of any vision changes, eye pain, or severe irritation to a prescriber is crucial.

Prophylactic Use

Erythromycin ointment is both bacteriostatic and bactericidal.
Essential for preventing ophthalmia neonatorum in newborns of infected mothers.

Application Technique

A 1-2 cm ribbon of ointment is applied to the lower conjunctival sac of each eye or delivered in drop form.

Bonding Concerns

If administering to an infant, reassurances can be given that the medication can be delayed until after the first breastfeeding, allowing for bonding without significant interference.

Description

This quiz covers the mechanism of action, therapeutic category, and administration guidelines for ophthalmic erythromycin. It also includes information on indications, warnings, adverse reactions, and nursing implications. Test your knowledge on this important antibiotic used in ocular infections.