A patient has an infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The prescriber has ordered piperacillin and amikacin, both to be given intravenously. What will the nurse do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When penicillins are present in high concentrations, they interact with aminoglycosides and inactivate the aminoglycoside; therefore, these two drugs should never be mixed in the same IV solution. The drugs should be given at different times with different tubing. In the treatment of Pseudomonas infections, extended-spectrum penicillins, such as piperacillin, usually are given in conjunction with an antipseudomonal aminoglycoside, such as amikacin; therefore, suggesting a larger dose of piperacillin and discontinuation of the amikacin is incorrect. Zosyn is not recommended. The risk of allergic reactions does not increase with this combination of drugs.

A Patient Has an Infection Caused by Pseudomonas Aeruginosa