DRUG NAME MODE OF ACTION INDICATIONS DRUG RESPONSIBILITIES

EFFECTS
Generic Name: Inhibits protein synthesis by  for preventing ophthalmia Side Effects:  Apply a ribbon of the ointment
erythromycin penetrating into bacterial cell neonatorum (Newborn  Irritation to in the lower conjunctiva of each
(ointment) membranes and binding to bacterial conjunctivitis) caused by site eye, from the inner canthus to
ribosomes. Drug is usually Neisseria gonorrheae or  Itching the outer canthus.
Brand Name: bacteriostatic but may be bactericidal Chlamydia trachomatis  Inflammation  Caution should be taken to avoid
in high concentrations or against touching eye tissue when
highly susceptible organisms. Adverse Effects: applying the topical treatment
Therapeutic class:  Allergic  Provide a water-based solution
Antibiotics reaction of povidone iodine. Do not use
alcohol-based povidone iodine
Pharmacological solution as this harms the
class: neonate
Macrolides  Gently massage eyelids for 1
minute to spread the ointment
Dose:  Explain the purpose of the drug
Ribbon of ointment to the mother before drug
about 1 cm long administration to the baby and
reassure that this is a routine
Frequency: procedure.
Single dose only  Ideally, use a new tube of
(within 90 minutes ointment for each neonate
and 6 hours from  Record the injection in the
birth): patient record

Route:
Ophthalmic; both
eyes (lower
conjunctiva)