5 Questions
What is the primary mechanism of action of penicillin?
Destroying the bacterial cell wall
What is the role of beta-lactamase inhibitors in combination with penicillins?
Destroy beta-lactamase enzymes produced by bacteria
Which of the following medications is a combination of penicillin and a beta-lactamase inhibitor?
Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (Augmentin)
What is a potential side effect or complication associated with penicillin antibiotics?
Super-infections like C-diff and fungal infections
Why is it important to report persistent watery diarrhea to healthcare providers when taking penicillin antibiotics?
To assess for Clostridium difficile infection
Study Notes
Penicillin Action
- Destroys bacterial cell wall by inhibiting production
- Effective against gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria
Beta-Lactamase
- Enzyme produced by bacteria to inactivate or fight off antibiotics
Medications
- Examples of penicillin medications: Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Penicillin, Penicillin V
- Penicillin and beta-lactamase inhibitors: Ampicillin/sulbactam (Unasyn), Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (Augmentin), Ticarcillin/clavulanic acid (Timentin), and Piperacillin/tazobactam (Zosyn)
Side Effects and Complications
- Gastrointestinal effects: sore mouth, furry tongue
- Super-infections: C-diff, Pseudomembranous colitis (diarrhea), fungal infections (candidiasis)
- Hypersensitivity reactions: anaphylaxis
- Caution: liver failure, oral contraceptives
Nursing Interventions
- Report allergic reactions: rash, itchy throat, hives
- Report persistent watery diarrhea for Cloristidium difficile assessment
- Store oral liquids in refrigerated conditions
- Be aware of allergy to cephalosporins
Test your knowledge on how penicillin destroys bacterial cell walls by inhibiting their production, the role of beta-lactamase enzymes, and the use of beta-lactamase inhibitors to combat antibiotic resistance. Explore medications like Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, and Penicillin V.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
