CHapter 7 - Pharm, Antibacterial Drugs That Disrupt the Bacterial Cell Wall

Flashcards covering the key concepts from the lecture on antibacterial drugs that disrupt the bacterial cell wall.

What is the primary action of antibacterial drugs that disrupt bacterial cell walls?

They interfere with cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death.

Name four classes of antibiotics that disrupt bacterial cell walls.

Penicillins, Cephalosporins, Carbapenems, Vancomycin.

What is bacterial resistance in the context of antibacterial drugs?

Bacteria develop the ability to produce substances that inactivate or destroy antibiotics.

What are common adverse reactions to penicillins?

Gastrointestinal reactions like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; hypersensitivity reactions; pain at injection site.

What type of infections are penicillins commonly used to treat?

Urinary tract infections, septicemia, meningitis, skin infections, pneumonia, and syphilis.

What is antibiotic stewardship?

An approach to promoting the appropriate use of antibiotics to combat antibiotic resistance.

Which generation of cephalosporins is effective against MRSA?

Fifth generation cephalosporins.

What are important nursing considerations before administering penicillins?

Assess for allergies, renal function, and any history of gastrointestinal disease.

What is the role of vancomycin?

To treat serious gram-positive infections that do not respond to other antibiotics.

Why should cephalosporins be used cautiously in patients with renal disease?

They can cause seizures and other complications.