I recently had a head cold that turned into a sinus infection. I am sure that you can relate!!
I was treated with antibiotics or the anti-infective classification of medication. There are many types of antibiotics but they all help fight bacteria in the body!! Antibiotics can be life saving but there are always potential side effects!!
Case Study: My provider prescribed Augmentin (trade name) or Amox-Clav. After about 10 doses, I have a sore tongue and some white patches in my throat.
The two names give you the first clue about this drug. Augmentin is a combination of Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium. Augment is commonly prescribed for sinusitis, ear infections, urinary tract infections and skin infections.
Question 1. When would this medication not be prescribed? Can you guess? Allergies - of course but also if the person has severe kidney or liver disease!
Question 2.The directions say take 1 tablet by mouth every 12 hours times 10 days- why? We want to give at specific times so the medication builds up in the blood and stays consistent - then bacteria will be affected constantly.
Question 3. What’s up with the sore tongue and white patches? Google Augmentin and review the side effects.
All antibiotics kill off good bacteria as well as bad bacteria - making it more likely that yeast can grow and cause problems. Yeast in the mouth is called thrush! Guess what the treatment is? More medication - called Nystatin - which is an antifungal!
Question 4. What are some potential severe side effects of Augmentin (beside anaphylactic reactions).
Severe diarrhea that is watery or bloody, decreased urination or dark colored urine (indicating kidney problems), and yes that yellow colored skin indicating liver damage!
Of interest: Augmentin can make birth control pills be less effective so other interventions might be needed!!
Bottom line: all medications can cause side effects. Look up medications before you administer them. Monitor your client for changes. Changes can be immediate -like anaphylactic reactions or occur after the medication has been stopped. Notify a supervisor or the provider if you have concerns!!
Take the attached quiz and I will send you a certificate of completion!
Have a great week -
Lynn Johnston, R.N., your healthcare instructor!!
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