Professional Documents
Culture Documents
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS RATIONALE
Independent
Monitor vital signs closely, especially during initiation of During this period of time, potentially fatal complications
therapy. (hypotension/shock) may develop.
Instruct patient concerning the disposition of secretions Although patient may find expectoration offensive and
(e.g., raising and expectorating versus swallowing) and attempt to limit or avoid it, it is essential that sputum be
reporting changes in color, amount, odor of secretions. disposed of in a safe manner. Changes in characteristics of
sputum reflect resolution of pneumonia or development of
secondary infection.
Change position frequently and provide good pulmonary Promotes expectoration, clearing of infection.
toilet.
Institute isolation precautions as individually appropriate. Dependent on type of infection, response to antibiotics,
patient’s general health, and development of
complications, isolation techniques may be desired to
prevent spread/protect patient from other infectious
processes.
Encourage adequate rest balanced with moderate activity. Facilitates healing process and enhances natural
Promote adequate nutritional intake. resistance.
Monitor effectiveness of antimicrobial therapy. Signs of improvement in condition should occur within
24–48 hr.
Administer antimicrobials as indicated by results of These drugs are used to combat most of the microbial
sputum/blood cultures: e.g., penicillins: erythromycin (E- pneumonias. Combinations of antiviral and antifungal
Mycin), tetracycline (Achromycin), doxycycline hyclate agents may be used when the pneumonia is a result of
(Vibramycin), amikacin (Amikin); cephalosporins: mixed organisms. Note: Vancomycin and third-generation
ceftriaxone (Rocephin); amantadine (Symmetrel); cephalosporins are the treatment of choice for penicillin-
sparfloxacin (Zagam); macrolide derivatives, e.g, resistant streptococcal pneumonia.
azithromycin (Zithromax).