A nurse cares for a client who is prescribed vancomycin ...

[saraeharris]

A nurse cares for a client who is prescribed vancomycin (Vancocin) 500 mg IV every 6 hours for a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection. Which action should the nurse take?
 
  a. Administer it over 30 minutes using an IV pump.
  b. Give the client diphenhydramine (Benadryl) before the drug.
  c. Assess the IV site at least every 2 hours for thrombophlebitis.
  d. Ensure that the client has increased oral intake during therapy.

Question 2

A nurse assesses a young female client who is prescribed isotretinoin (Accutane). Which question should the nurse ask prior to starting this therapy?
 
  a. Do you spend a great deal of time in the sun?
  b. Have you or any family members ever had skin cancer?
  c. Which method of contraception are you using?
  d. Do you drink alcoholic beverages?

[TDubDCFL]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Vancomycin is very irritating to the veins and can easily cause thrombophlebitis. This drug is given over at least 60 minutes; although it can cause histamine release (leading to red man syndrome), it is not customary to administer diphenhydramine before starting the infusion. Increasing oral intake is not specific to vancomycin therapy.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Isotretinoin has many side effects. It is a known teratogen and can cause severe birth defects. A pregnancy test is required before therapy is initiated, and strict birth control measures must be used during therapy. Sun exposure, alcohol ingestion, and family history of cancer are contraindications for isotretinoin.

[saraeharris]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[FergA]

Gracias!