Roach's Introductory Clinical Pharmacology 11th Edition - Antibacterial Drugs That Interfere With Protein Synthesis Related

Review Roach's Introductory Clinical Pharmacology 11th Edition - Antibacterial Drugs That Interfere With Protein Synthesis related questions and content

A patient is ordered to receive neomycin as part of the treatment plan for hepatic coma. Which of the following would be most important for the nurse to assess before administering this drug? Select all that apply.

  • A. Ability to swallow
  • B. Level of consciousness
  • C. Baseline vital signs
  • D. Pulmonary function
Correct Answer: A, B

Rationale: During the early stages of hepatic coma, various changes in the level of consciousness may be seen. At times, the patient may appear lethargic and respond poorly to commands. Because of these changes in the level of consciousness, the patient may have difficulty swallowing, and a danger of aspiration is present. If the patient appears to have difficulty taking an oral drug, the nurse should withhold the drug and contact the primary health care provider. Baseline vital signs are important but are not the priority when the patient has hepatic coma. The drug does not affect the patient's respiratory function. There is no infection; therefore, there is no need for culture and sensitivity testing.