Holy Angel University

School of Nursing and Allied Medical Sciences

Department of Nursing
Drug Study

Generic Name & Brand Name Pharmacologic Class

Cefuroxime is a second-generation
Cefuroxime Axetil cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat
(Ceftin) bacterial infections

Stock Doses and Forms Therapeutic Actions

The dosage and administration of cefuroxime Cefuroxime is indicated for the treatment of
in pediatric patients with pneumonia depend bacterial pneumonia in pediatric patients,
on the severity of the infection, the child's which is a common respiratory tract infection
weight, and renal function. The caused by various bacteria, including
recommended dosages are as follows: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus
influenzae, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
1. Oral tablets or oral suspension: 20-30
mg/kg/day divided into 2 doses (every
12 hours) for 7 to 10 days.
2. Injectable form: 50-100 mg/kg/day
divided into 3 doses (every 8 hours)
for 5 to 10 days.

The oral form of cefuroxime should be taken

with food to enhance its absorption. The
injectable form should be administered slowly
over 3 to 5 minutes, and the injection site
should be rotated to prevent irritation.
Mechanism of Action
Cefuroxime works interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis by inhibiting the final step in
cross-linking peptidoglycan strand. Peptidoglycan makes the cell membrane rigid and
protective. Without it, bacterial cell rupture and die.

Reason/s Given:
It is an effective treatment option for pediatric patients with pneumonia, a common
respiratory tract infection that can be caused by various bacteria because it has a broad
spectrum of activity against many of the bacteria that can cause pneumonia. Additionally,
cefuroxime is available in different formulations, including oral tablets or suspension and
injectable form, which can make it easier to administer to pediatric patients.

Nursing Considerations
Pre-Administration Intervention Post-Administration Evaluation
Assessment
- Introduce and establish - Perform the 10 rights of - Regulate the IVF with the line
rapport. medication to the patient prescribed flow rate

-- Review doctor's orders. - Emphasize the - Monitor the child's response to

- Assess the child's fluid
and electrolyte balance, as
cefuroxime can cause
electrolyte imbalances and
dehydration.
importance and purpose of
the drug the patient and
S/O
- Check the patency of
the IV site and IV line
therapy and report any worsening
of symptoms or lack of
improvement to the healthcare
provider.
- Monitor the patient for any signs
of an allergic reaction or adverse
 Holy Angel University
School of Nursing and Allied Medical Sciences
Department of Nursing
Drug Study

- Obtain specimen for - If hypersensitivity occurs, effects, such as diarrhea, nausea,

culture and sensitivity test
before giving first dose.
- Obtain CBC, renal
function tests
- Obtain a thorough
patient history and assess
for any contraindications
or potential drug
interactions with
cefuroxime. Ensure patient
is not allergic to penicillin
or cephalosporins
stop the administration
immediately.
vomiting, or abdominal pain.
- Inform the patient for the possible
side effects of Cefuroxime such as
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, strange
taste in the mouth, or stomach
pain may occur. Diaper rash may
occur in young children.
Dizziness and drowsiness may occur
less frequently, especially with higher
doses. Instruct the S/O to notify
doctor or pharmacist promptly, if
any of any of the side effects or
adverse effects persist or worsen.

- Maintain aseptic - Make sure to always ensure the

technique when handling a safety of the patient by reminding
solution. Drug can support the guardian about the bed rail.
growth of microorganism.
- Instruct the client’s guardian to
- Shake suspension well report any significant adverse
before giving drug effects to the healthcare provider
immediately.
- Instruct the patient and
S/O on the proper - Documentation
administration of the
medication, including
dosing, frequency, and
duration of therapy.

Drug Interaction/s

- Cefuroxime may interact with other drugs that are renally excreted, such as probenecid and
furosemide. It is also contraindicated with allergy cephalosporin or penicillin. It may also
interfere with certain laboratory tests, such as the Coombs' test and glucose tests.

Health Education for Patients

- Explain the importance of taking cefuroxime exactly as prescribed, including the dose,
frequency, and duration of treatment. Inform the patient and caregiver that stopping the
medication too soon may result in incomplete resolution of the infection and potentially allow
the bacteria to become resistant to the antibiotic.
- Inform the patient and S/O that the oral liquid form must be taken with meals, while the
tablet form may be given with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not break, crush,
or chew it.
- Educate the child and their caregiver on the importance of hand hygiene and infection control
measures to prevent the spread of pneumonia and other infections.
- Advise the patient to inform the healthcare provider of any changes in their medications,
including over-the-counter drugs, to check for potential drug interactions with Cefuroxime.
- Instruct the S/O to notify doctor or pharmacist promptly, if any of any of the side effects or
adverse effects persist or worsen.