Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Vancomycin as follows:
- Patients with history of antibiotic associated diarrhea must be cautious about using Vancomycin. Discuss with your doctor regarding your history of the same. Report to your doctor regarding any persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, and blood or mucus in the stool. These findings could occur even weeks after discontinuation of Vancomycin and must be reported.
- Vancomycin carries the risk of causing dizziness and confusion. These responses can significantly increase, if Vancomycin were taken with alcohol. Avoid taking Vancomycin with alcohol. One should stay away from activities, such as, driving and operating heavy machinery, until they are used to the side effects caused by Vancomycin.
- Administering the Vancomycin IV medication too fast can result in red man syndrome, characterized by flushing of the body, low blood pressure, and muscle pains. Inflammation at the site of injection with redness and tenderness around the injection site also can occur. Always administer the Vancomycin IV medication only at the recommended rate, to prevent this complication.
- Patients with history of diminished hearing and ototoxicity are at increased risk for hearing loss with Vancomycin. Individuals taking Vancomycin must observe a close watch regarding the same and report any changes with hearing to the physician immediately.
