A patient prescribed vancomycin (Vancocin) has developed redness on the face, neck, chest, back, and arms. The family asks the nurse if the drug should be stopped because of this response. What is your best answer?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Redness on the face, neck, chest, back, and arms are common side effects of vancomycin (Vancocin) infusion and do not necessarily indicate an allergic reaction. Although rare, severe allergic reactions can occur with vancomycin and would present with symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hives or itching, or swelling of the tongue, lips, or face. It is important to monitor for these symptoms, but in this case, the redness is an expected drug side effect and the medication should not be stopped without consulting with the prescriber.

A Patient Prescribed Vancomycin (Vancocin) Has Developed Redness on the Face