Infusion therapy with antibiotics
The majority of human infections are caused by infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. Infections can occur via the air, via droplets such as during coughing, or via contact with contaminated surfaces. In infusion therapy, there is always the risk of contamination with infectious agents. Thus, hygienic handling and appropriate standards are important. Infections aquired during a hospital stay and treatment require special attention as they might be caused by highly treatment-resistant bacteria. Theses iatrogenic infections tend to be difficult to cure and may result in severe patient risk and prolonged hospital stay. Not all antibiotics are active against all bacteria, thus, there is a broad range of antibiotic classes available working against different germs and each has to be selected carefully.
Prescription
The decision upon the appropiate antibiotic has to include the likelihood of the type of organism involved and selection of a respective drug, called calculated antibiotic therapy. Once the causing organism has been determined by the laboratory, a change of drug might be recommended.
Patient Access
Highly-active antibiotic substances may be available as IV preparation only or the patient might be too sick to take oral medication. In many cases thus, antibiotics have to be given intravenously and require a respective patient access. In most cases, a peripheral line will be sufficient.
Preparation
If the selected antibiotic is available as “ready to use”, no further preparative steps are needed. In all other cases, the anti-infective substances typically come as lyophilisate (freeze-dried) which has to be reconstituted, either with Water for Injection, 0.9% saline or Glucose 5%. Antibiotic substances shall not be spilled or aerosols shall not be inhaled by healthcare workers as they might lead to undesired health consequences.
B. Braun safety products - Drug Preparation
Application
Once the antibiotic drug is properly dissolved and available in the infusion container, a giving set has to be introduced into the infusion container and the IV line has to be primed and directly connected to the patient access device.
Discharge Management
Once the treatment of the patient in the hospital is finished, patients may have to stay on IV medication, e.g. pain therapy. Discharge management offers continuous support and hand over to nursing services.
