A patient is receiving tobramycin 3 times daily. The provider has ...

[sheilaspns]

A patient is receiving tobramycin 3 times daily. The provider has ordered a trough level with the 8:00 AM dose. The nurse will ensure that the level is drawn at what time?
 
  a. 4:00 AM
  b. 7:00 AM
  c. 7:45 AM
  d. 8:45 AM

Question 2

A nurse is explaining to nursing students why a cephalosporin is used in conjunction with an aminoglycoside for a patient with an infection. Which statement by a student indicates understanding of the teaching?
 
  a. Cephalosporins enhance the actions of aminoglycosides by weakening bacterial cell walls.
  b. Cephalosporins prevent neuromuscular blockade associated with aminoglycosides.
  c. Cephalosporins prolong the postantibiotic effects of the aminoglycosides so doses can be decreased.
  d. Cephalosporins reduce bacterial resistance to aminoglycosides.

[yasmin]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
When a patient is receiving divided doses of an aminoglycoside, the trough level should be drawn just before the next dose; therefore, 7:45 AM would be the appropriate time. It would not be appropriate to draw a trough at the other times listed.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Cephalosporins, penicillins, and vancomycin can be used in conjunction with aminoglycosides; these drugs weaken the bacterial cell wall and enhance the bactericidal actions of aminoglycosides. Cephalosporins do not prevent neuromuscular blockade. They do not prolong the postantibiotic effects of aminoglycosides. They do not affect bacterial resistance.