Vaccines Q&A for Healthcare Professionals

Vaccines

• Meningococcal (A, C, W, Y) & Meningococcal B: Prevents meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis. Potential side effects include injection site pain, fever, headache, and fatigue. Contraindicated in those with severe allergic reactions to the vaccine. Nurses must verify patient age and risk factors, educate about side effects, and monitor for reactions post-administration.

• Pneumococcal (PCV13/23): Prevents diseases caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, including pneumonia and meningitis. Common side effects include redness, swelling, mild fever, and myalgia. Nurses need to verify indication based on patient factors (e.g., older adults, immunocompromised), and administer following recommended sequencing with other vaccines.

• Measles (MMR Vaccine): Prevents measles, mumps, and rubella. Potential adverse reactions include fever, rash, joint pain, and, rarely, febrile seizures or anaphylaxis. Contraindications include pregnancy and severe immunosuppression. Nurses must ensure the patient isn't pregnant or planning pregnancy within a month and assess their immune status.

• HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Prevents HPV-related cancers and genital warts. Potential side effects include pain, swelling, fainting (vasovagal syncope), and fever. Contraindicated in those with serious allergic reactions to previous doses. Nurses should recommend it to adolescents (9–26 years) and monitor for fainting.

• Varicella (Chickenpox): Prevents chickenpox caused by Varicella zoster virus. Adverse reactions include fever, mild rash, and anaphylaxis. Contraindicated in pregnant women and those with immunosuppression. Nurses must check immune status and advise against pregnancy for a month post-vaccination.

• Zoster (Shingles): Prevents shingles in adults aged 50+. Adverse reactions include pain, redness, myalgia, and fever. Contraindicated in those with serious allergic reactions. Nurses should administer in two doses (0 and 2–6 months).

• Rabies Vaccine: Provides post-exposure or pre-exposure prophylaxis against rabies. Potential side effects include injection site pain, fever, headache, and nausea. Contraindicated in those with severe allergic reactions. Nurses follow PEP protocols and may administer with rabies immunoglobulin if needed.

Immune Globulins and Antivenins

• Rh Immune Globulin (RhoGAM): Prevents Rh sensitization in Rh-negative mothers. Adverse reactions include injection site reactions, fever, and chills. Contraindicated for Rh-positive individuals and those with immune thrombocytopenia. Administer within 72 hours of delivery or miscarriage. Verify Rh status.

• Tetanus Immune Globulin (TIG): Provides post-exposure prophylaxis for tetanus. Adverse effects include local pain, fever, and hypersensitivity. Contraindicated in those with severe allergies. Administer along with tetanus toxoid. Assess wound exposure risk.

• Antivenins (e.g., for Snake Bites): Neutralize venom from venomous animals. Significant and potentially life-threatening adverse reactions include anaphylaxis and serum sickness. Contraindicated for those sensitive to the antivenin or animal proteins. Nurses closely monitor for anaphylaxis and prepare emergency equipment during infusion.

Medications

• Filgrastim (G-CSF): Stimulates white blood cell production post-chemotherapy or in neutropenia. Potential side effects include bone pain, leukocytosis, and spleen enlargement. Contraindicated for those with hypersensitivity to E. coli-derived proteins. Nurses must monitor complete blood count (CBC) and educate patients about bone pain.

• Folic Acid: Treats folic acid deficiency, such as anemia or during pregnancy. Adverse reactions are rare, but hypersensitivity is possible. Contraindicated in no significant way. Nurse implementation includes educating patients on dietary sources. Side effects include mild gastrointestinal upset.

• Leucovorin: Rescue therapy in methotrexate toxicity or enhances chemotherapy effectiveness. Adverse reactions are rare but may include allergic reactions. Contraindicated in those with pernicious anemia. Nurses should monitor methotrexate levels. Side effects include nausea and fatigue.

• Epoetin Alpha: Treats anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) or during chemotherapy. Possible adverse reactions include hypertension and thromboembolism. Contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Nurses should closely monitor hemoglobin levels. Side effects include headache and joint pain.

• Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12): Treats B12 deficiency, such as pernicious anemia. Adverse reactions are rare and may include injection site pain or itching. Contraindicated for those allergic to cobalt or B12. Monitor for anemia improvement. Side effects include mild diarrhea and rash.

This quiz covers essential information about various vaccines, including meningococcal, pneumococcal, and MMR vaccination. It evaluates knowledge on their preventive measures, potential side effects, contraindications, and nursing responsibilities during administration.