Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Vancomycin as follows:
- Bile acid Sequestrants or binders, such as, Cholestyramine and Colestipol, can bind Vancomycin too and slow down the absorption of Vancomycin, thereby, reducing the therapeutic effect. Taking the binder by observing a 2 to 3-hour window from the time of Vancomycin intake can help avoid this complication.
- Observe compliance with any regular lab work ordered. As Vancomycin carries the risk for damage to the kidneys, renal function could be periodically monitored, to prevent any risk for toxicity. Watch closely to report any symptoms of renal injury and altered kidney function, such as, altered levels of consciousness and reduced urine formation, should be closely watched for and reported to the physician.
- Noncompliance with Vancomycin intake for the complete schedule can result in ineffective infection control with chance of relapse of infection with increased vigor. This can also contribute towards emergence of drug resistant strains of bacteria, making infection control more difficult.
- Do not change the dose on Vancomycin without consulting your doctor.
