Editing Pharmacology – RN Flashcards (section)

== Anti-infective and Oncology ==

;Vancomycin infusion reaction: cause and management?
:Direct histamine release from rapid infusion, producing flushing and erythema of the face, neck, and upper torso with pruritus. Stop or slow the infusion, treat with an antihistamine as ordered, and extend the infusion to at least 60 minutes. It is not an IgE-mediated allergy and should not be charted as one.

;Two hallmark toxicities of aminoglycosides, and the monitoring required?
:Nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Monitor peak and trough levels, serum creatinine, urine output, and hearing, and report new tinnitus, vertigo, or hearing loss.

;What is the chemotherapy nadir and what teaching accompanies it?
:The point of lowest blood counts, typically 7 to 14 days after administration. Teach infection precautions, avoidance of crowds and raw foods per protocol, bleeding precautions, and immediate reporting of a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher as a possible neutropenic emergency. Remember also that vincristine is given intravenously only and is fatal if administered intrathecally.