*Note on Ceftriaxone Infusion Rate:*
Ceftriaxone is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic commonly used to treat various bacterial infections. When administered intravenously, it's essential to follow the recommended infusion rate to ensure safety and efficacy.
The recommended infusion rate for ceftriaxone is:
- 1-2 grams: 30 minutes
- 2 grams (as a single dose): 30 minutes to 1 hour
Rapid infusion can cause:
- Phlebitis (inflammation of the vein)
- Thrombophlebitis (blood clot formation in the vein)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Other adverse reactions
*Solved Case:*
A 45-year-old male patient is prescribed 2 grams of ceftriaxone IV every 12 hours for the treatment of pneumonia. The nurse is preparing to administer the first dose.
*Question:* At what rate should the nurse infuse the 2 grams of ceftriaxone?
*Solution:* According to the recommended infusion rate, 2 grams of ceftriaxone should be infused over 30 minutes to 1 hour.
To calculate the infusion rate in mL/min, we need to know the volume of the ceftriaxone solution. Assuming the 2 grams of ceftriaxone is reconstituted in 10 mL of solution (this may vary depending on the manufacturer's instructions), the infusion rate would be:
Infusion rate = Total volume (mL) / Infusion time (min)
= 10 mL / 30 min (using the minimum recommended infusion time)
= 0.33 mL/min
Therefore, the nurse should infuse the 2 grams of ceftriaxone over 30 minutes to 1 hour, at a rate of approximately 0.33 mL/min.
.jpeg)
*Explanation:* Administering ceftriaxone at the recommended infusion rate helps minimize the risk of adverse reactions, such as phlebitis and hypotension. The nurse should carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions and hospital policies for ceftriaxone administration to ensure safe and effective treatment.
