Editing Pharmacology – LPN Flashcards (section)

== Anti-infectives ==

;Why must a client finish the entire antibiotic course?
:Stopping early allows surviving organisms to regrow and promotes antibiotic resistance, even though symptoms improve first. Report rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or severe diarrhea.

;What must be avoided with metronidazole?
:All alcohol during therapy and for at least 3 days after the last dose, because of a disulfiram-like reaction with severe nausea, vomiting, flushing, and headache. Check mouthwash and liquid cold preparations for alcohol. A metallic taste and dark urine are expected.

;Which drugs must be separated from dairy products, antacids, calcium, and iron?
:Tetracyclines including doxycycline, and fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin. These bind the drug and block absorption, so separate them by at least 2 hours. Both classes also cause photosensitivity, so teach sun protection.

;What is expected with rifampin, and what is reported?
:Expected: orange discoloration of urine, sweat, saliva, and tears, and permanent staining of soft contact lenses. Rifampin also reduces the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Report yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, nausea, or right upper quadrant pain, which may signal liver injury.

;Why is pyridoxine, vitamin B6, given with isoniazid?
:To prevent peripheral neuropathy, which presents as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. Report those symptoms and any signs of liver injury.