• 0.5–1 g by IV bolus over 5
minutes or IV infusion over
15–30 minutes 8-hourly OR •
(febrile neutropenia) 1 g by IV
bolus over 5 minutes or IV
infusion over 15–30 minutes
8-hourly OR • (meningitis) 2 g by
IV bolus over 5 minutes or IV
infusion over 15–30 minutes
8-hourly
Side effects
Rash
Hypersensitivity
Headache
Nausea
Liver dysfunction
Can cause sodium and water retention
Adverse effects
Thrombocytopenia
Anaphylaxis
Seizure
Nursing considerations
Measure fluid output
Observe for skin rashes
Assess PIVC
Patient education incl.
information about
hypersensitivity [if other drug
allergy]
Assess for nausea / vomiting
Pain assessment
Side effect headache
Monitor vital signs
Assess if S&S for
infection are
improving eg.
temperature, heart
rate, blood pressure
How does it work? Mode of action
Kills / slows the growth
of bacteria by
inhibiting bacteria
from invading the cells