What is the purpose of Vancomycin Hydrochloride and what are the side effects/administration protocols?

Vancomycin Hydrochloride is an antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, particularly methicillin-resistant staphylococcal infections. It is also used to treat staphylococcal enter colitis or pseudomembranous colitis due to Clostridium difficile. The medication can cause adverse reactions and side effects such as ototoxicity, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, nephrotoxicity, rashes, eosinophilia, leukopenia, phlebitis, back and neck pain, anaphylaxis, and superinfection. When administered rapidly through IV, it can cause a massive histamine release called “red-man syndrome.” It is important for healthcare providers to monitor patients closely and adjust dosages as needed based on the patient’s weight and other individual factors.

• Prior to initiating therapy, culture and sensitivity tests should be performed.
• Monitor the IV site closely to prevent extravasation.
• Monitor blood pressure and skin flushing during IV infusion.
• Monitor daily weight and intake and output.
• Cloudy or pink urine may indicate nephrotoxicity.
• Assess bowel status.
• Monitor CBC with differential and liver and renal function.
• Monitor peak and trough drug levels.
• Report sub therapeutic or toxic levels immediately.
• Administer IV over at least 60-90 minutes to prevent “red-man syndrome.”
• Look for Candida infections.