More questions on this topic
More questions on this topic ( 31 Questions)
The nurse is caring for a patient receiving vancomycin (Vancocin) for treatment of an infection caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
Which assessment finding would indicate a potentially serious adverse reaction to this drug?
Choice A is wrong because redness and itching at the infusion site are not specific to vancomycin (Vancocin) and could indicate a local irritation or an allergic reaction to any drug.
Choice B is wrong because flushing, rash, and pruritus on the face and upper torso are symptoms of red man syndrome, a common but not serious side effect of vancomycin (Vancocin) that occurs due to rapid infusion and histamine release. Red man syndrome can be prevented by infusing the drug over at least 1 hour.
Choice C is wrong because nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps are not specific to vancomycin (Vancocin) and could be caused by many factors, such as infection, food poisoning, or other drugs.
These are signs of ototoxicity, a potentially serious adverse reaction to vancomycin (Vancocin) and other aminoglycosides. Ototoxicity can damage the inner ear and cause permanent hearing loss or balance problems.
No explanation
These are signs of ototoxicity, a potentially serious adverse reaction to vancomycin (Vancocin) and other aminoglycosides. Ototoxicity can damage the inner ear and cause permanent hearing loss or balance problems.
Choice A is wrong because redness and itching at the infusion site are not specific to vancomycin (Vancocin) and could indicate a local irritation or an allergic reaction to any drug.
Choice B is wrong because flushing, rash, and pruritus on the face and upper torso are symptoms of red man syndrome, a common but not serious side effect of vancomycin (Vancocin) that occurs due to rapid infusion and histamine release. Red man syndrome can be prevented by infusing the drug over at least 1 hour.
Choice C is wrong because nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps are not specific to vancomycin (Vancocin) and could be caused by many factors, such as infection, food poisoning, or other drugs.
Normal ranges for vancomycin (Vancocin) trough levels are 10 to 20 mcg/mL for most infections and 15 to 20 mcg/mL for serious infections such as osteomyelitis, endocarditis, or meningitis. Levels above 20 mcg/mL increase the risk of ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
Therefore, the nurse should monitor the patient’s trough levels regularly and report any abnormal findings to the prescriber.