Nursing Responsibilities:

 Determine history of hypersensitivity reactions to cephalosporins, penicillins, and history of allergies,

particularly to drugs, before therapy is initiated.
 Lab tests: Perform culture and sensitivity tests before initiation of therapy and periodically during therapy
if indicated. Therapy may be instituted pending test results. Monitor periodically BUN and creatinine
clearance.
 Inspect IM and IV injection sites frequently for signs of phlebitis.
 Report onset of loose stools or diarrhea. Although pseudomembranous colitis (see Signs & Symptoms,
Appendix F) rarely occurs, this potentially life-threatening complication should be ruled out as the cause
of diarrhea during and after antibiotic therapy.
 Monitor for manifestations of hypersensitivity (see Appendix F). Discontinue drug and report their
appearance promptly.
 Monitor I&O rates and pattern: Especially important in severely ill patients receiving high doses. Report
any significant changes.

Patient & Family Education

 Report loose stools or diarrhea promptly.

 Report any signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity
 Do not breast feed while taking this drug