- Body system
- Anti-infectives
- Drug cards
- 1 in this guide
Drugs in this class
Other examples: Dalbavancin, Oritavancin, Telavancin.
How vancomycin (glycopeptides) work
Binds cell wall precursors and blocks cell wall synthesis in gram-positive bacteria.
Uses
- MRSA bacteremia, pneumonia, skin and bone infections
- Endocarditis
- C. difficile (oral)
Adverse effects
- Vancomycin infusion reaction (flushing and rash of the upper body)
- Nephrotoxicity
- Ototoxicity
- Phlebitis
Nursing considerations
- Infuse over at least 60 minutes.
- Monitor creatinine, urine output and drug levels as ordered (AUC-guided or trough-based).
- Draw trough levels just before the next dose when ordered.
Patient teaching
- Report hearing changes or decreased urination.
- Oral vancomycin does not treat infections outside the gut.
Vancomycin (glycopeptides) NCLEX practice questions
Answer each question to see the rationale.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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A patient develops flushing and a red rash on the face and neck during a vancomycin infusion. What is the first action?
Show answer
Answer A: Stop or slow the infusion and notify the provider This is a vancomycin infusion reaction, caused by infusing too fast. Slowing or stopping the infusion and an antihistamine as ordered usually resolve it.
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When should a vancomycin trough level be drawn?
Show answer
Answer A: Just before the next dose A trough is the lowest level, measured right before the next dose.
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Which lab result best indicates vancomycin nephrotoxicity?
Show answer
Answer D: Rising serum creatinine A rising creatinine and falling urine output suggest kidney injury.
Frequently asked questions
What are vancomycin (glycopeptides)?
Vancomycin treats MRSA and other serious gram-positive infections. Infuse it slowly, monitor the kidneys and drug levels, and remember that oral vancomycin is only for C. difficile.
How do vancomycin (glycopeptides) work?
Binds cell wall precursors and blocks cell wall synthesis in gram-positive bacteria.
What are examples of vancomycin (glycopeptides)?
Vancomycin, Dalbavancin, Oritavancin and Telavancin.
What are the nursing considerations for vancomycin (glycopeptides)?
Infuse over at least 60 minutes. Monitor creatinine, urine output and drug levels as ordered (AUC-guided or trough-based).