The parent of an infant with otitis media asks the nurse why the ...

[pragya sharda]

The parent of an infant with otitis media asks the nurse why the prescriber has ordered amoxicillin (Amoxil) and not ampicillin (Unasyn). What will the nurse tell the parent?
 
  a. Amoxicillin is a broader spectrum antibiotic than ampicillin.
  b. Amoxicillin is not inactivated by beta-lactamases.
  c. Ampicillin is associated with more allergic reactions.
  d. Ampicillin is not as acid stable as amoxicillin.

Question 2

A patient has an infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. The prescriber has ordered dicloxacillin PO. What will the nurse do?
 
  a. Administer the medication as ordered.
  b. Contact the provider to suggest giving the drug IV.
  c. Question the need for a penicillinase-resistant penicillin.
  d. Suggest ordering vancomycin to treat this infection.

[b614102004]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Amoxicillin and ampicillin are similar in structure and actions but differ primarily in acid stability. Amoxicillin is more acid stable and, when administered orally, results in higher blood levels than can be obtained with equivalent doses of ampicillin. The two drugs have the same spectrum, both are inactivated by beta-lactamases, and both can cause allergic reactions.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Penicillinase-resistant penicillins have been developed for use against penicillinase-producing strains of staphylococci. These drugs have a very narrow antimicrobial spectrum and should be used only for such infections. S. pyogenes can be treated with penicillin G. The nurse should question the order. It is incorrect to contact the provider to ask for IV dosing. This infection can be treated with penicillin G and not with vancomycin.

[pragya sharda]

Both answers were spot on, thank you once again

[b614102004]

Great! Please up vote