Drug Study

Drug name: Ceftriaxone

A. Classification:

General Classification – Antibiotic

Specific Classification – Cephalosporin (third generation)

B. Why the drug is given:

This drug is given to treat susceptible infections that are caused by bacteria like infection of
the intestinal tract.

C. Mechanism of action:

Ceftriaxone binds to bacterial cell membranes to inhibit cell wall synthesis. This cause
disruption of the bacterial cell wall and leads to bacterial cell death.

D. Desired effect:

 This drug is given to the patient to prevent the growth of bacterial infections that may
develop.
 This drug is given to the patient to kill the bacterial infection that resides in its body.

E. Nursing Responsibilities:

Independent
 Inspect injection sites for induration and inflammation.
 To note IV injection sites for signs of phlebitis.
Patient/Family-Related Instruction

 Continue to administer this medication until the full-prescribed amount is finished

even if symptoms disappear after a few days.
 Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow,
which may result in a relapse of the infection and develop resistance to
antibiotic.
 Instruct the patient to drink a lots of fluids and to maintain nutrition even though
nausea and vomiting may occur.
 To keep the kidneys working properly while using it.
  Instruct the family to always wash hands thoroughly and disinfect equipment Use
universal precautions or isolation procedures as indicated for specific patients.
 To help prevent the spread of infection.

Dependent

 Monitor signs of pseudomembranous colitis, including diarrhea, abdominal pain,

fever, pus or mucus in stools, and other severe or prolonged GI problems (nausea,
vomiting, heartburn).  
 Notify physician if these reactions occur to prevent untoward complications.
 Monitor signs of petechiae, ecchymotic areas, epistaxis, or any unexplained bleeding.
 Notify physician immediately if these reactions occur. Ceftriaxone appears to
alter vitamin K–producing gut bacteria therefore, hypoprothrombinemic
bleeding may occur.
 Monitor signs of blood dyscrasias, including eosinophilia (fatigue, weakness,
myalgia), hemolytic anemia (malaise, dizziness, jaundice,), leukopenia (fever, sore
throat, mucosal lesions, signs of infection), or thrombocytosis (headache, dizziness,
chest pain, fainting, visual disturbances, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet).
Report this signs to the physician.
 Most patients with typhoid fever are moderately anemic.

 Monitor signs of allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, including pulmonary symptoms

(tightness in the throat and chest, wheezing, cough dyspnea) or skin reactions (rash,
pruritus, urticaria). Report this signs to the physician.
 This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems.
 Monitor injection site for pain, swelling, and irritation. Report prolonged or excessive
injection site reactions to the physician.
 To avoid the risk of having skin problems.
Interdependent
 Perform culture and sensitivity tests before initiation of therapy and periodically
before therapy.
 To find the most effective antibiotic to kill an infecting microorganism.