Must-know information when administering ANTIBIOTICS

Must-know information when administering ANTIBIOTICS:

👉🏼”ABX” is a common abbreviation you may see for antibiotics!

👉🏼Always obtain culture BEFORE administering an antibiotic

👉🏼Know that these are commonly used for prophylaxis before or after surgery!

👉🏼Some antibiotics (like Vancomycin) require levels to be drawn via blood work. Make sure you check these orders and follow them before administration!

👉🏼ALWAYS check compatibility with IV fluids if infusing the antibiotic

👉🏼Antibiotics are only used for treatment OR prevention (prophylaxis) of bacterial infections (not viruses!)

👉🏼 Educate your patient to finish the ENTIRE prescription of antibiotics (even if they are feeling better)

👉🏼 Educate your patient to avoid alcohol (antibiotics & alcohol are both hard on the liver)

👉🏼Educate patients to take a probiotic or eat yogurt during antibiotic course! This prevents diarrhea, GI upset, and yeast infections.

What are other must-knows about antibiotics??