Medication

Mechanism of Action

Indications

Contraindication

Side Effects

Nursing Responsibilities

Generic Name: Cefuroxime sodium Brand Name: Ritemed cefuroxime Classification: Anti- infective

Bind to bacterial cell wall membranes, causing cell death. Similar to that of first generations cephalosporins but have increase activity against several other gramnegative pathogens including: haemophilus influenza, Escherichia coli, klebsiella pneumonia, neisseria gonorrhea, proteus, moraxella, catarrhalis.

Lower UTI, RTI, skin and skin structure infection, gonorrhea, bone and joint infections, surgical prophylaxis

Hypersensitivity to cephalosporins. Serious hypersensitivity to penicillins.

GI: pseudomembr anous colitis, nausea and vomiting, cramps DERM: Rashes, urticaria HEMA: Bleeding, blood dyscrasias, hemolytic anemia

Before: Assess patient for infection Obtain specimens for culture and sensitivity Assess patient for renal dysfunction and adjust dose accordingly. During: Administer around the clock Administer slowly over 25 min. Instruct patient to swallow whole, not to be crushed After: Monitor IV site frequently for thrombophlebitis Advise patient/ family to report signs of infections and allergy Instruct patient to notify health care professionals if fever and diarrhea develops Document all relevant findings.

Footnote: Deglin and vallerand, 9th edition; 177