The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving an intravenous antibiotic. The nurse notes that the provider has ordered serum drug peak and trough levels. The nurse understands that these tests are necessary for which type of drugs?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Serum drug peak and trough levels are necessary for drugs with a narrow therapeutic index. These drugs have a small difference between the therapeutic dose and the toxic dose, and monitoring levels is necessary to ensure the drug is effective without causing harm. Examples of drugs with a narrow therapeutic index include digoxin and vancomycin.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Receiving