A nurse is preparing to reconstitute amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium oral suspension for administration to a client who has a respiratory tract infection. According to the label, which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Refer to the medication label below.)
Directions for mixing
Tap bottle until all powder flows freely. Add approximately 2/3 of total water for reconstitution
Shake vigorously to wet powder. Add remaining water, again shake vigorously Dosage: See accompanying prescribing Information
Discard after 10 days.
125 mg/5 mL
AMOXICILLIN CLAVULANATE POTASSIUM FOR ORAL SUSPENSION
When reconstituted, each 5ml contains AMOXICILLIN 125 mg. as the trihydrate
CLAVULANIC
ACID, 31.25 mg.
as clavulanate potassium
75mL
(when reconstituted)
A.
Store the medication at room temperature following reconstitution
B.
Use 0.9% sodium chloride solution as a diluent
C.
Discard any remaining medication after 10 days
D.
Roll the vial gently in hands to mix the medication
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. Discard any remaining medication after 10 days.
Explanation:
When preparing medications for administration, it’s crucial to follow specific reconstitution and storage guidelines to ensure the safety and efficacy of the medication. In the case of amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium oral suspension, the label provides detailed instructions on how to reconstitute and handle the medication.
- Reconstitution Instructions:
- Tap the bottle: This ensures that the powder inside the bottle is free-flowing and can mix properly.
- Add approximately 2/3 of the total water: This is to initially moisten and dissolve the powder.
- Shake vigorously: This step helps in adequately mixing the powder with the water to form a homogeneous suspension.
- Add remaining water: After the initial mixture, adding the rest of the water ensures that the final volume of the suspension is accurate and that the medication is fully dissolved.
- Shake vigorously again: This final shake ensures that the medication is evenly distributed throughout the suspension.
- Storage and Stability:
- Discard after 10 days: The label indicates that the reconstituted suspension should be discarded after 10 days. This is due to the stability of the medication; once reconstituted, it can degrade over time, potentially reducing its effectiveness or causing harm if used beyond this period.
- Incorrect Options:
- A. Store the medication at room temperature following reconstitution: This is incorrect because the label does not specify storage conditions beyond the 10-day discard period. Generally, such medications should be refrigerated, but it’s essential to follow specific storage instructions provided.
- B. Use 0.9% sodium chloride solution as a diluent: This is incorrect as the medication should be reconstituted with the specified amount of water, not with a saline solution. Sodium chloride solution is not appropriate for this purpose.
- D. Roll the vial gently in hands to mix the medication: This method is less effective for reconstituting powders that need vigorous shaking to ensure proper mixing. The label specifies vigorous shaking, which is necessary to achieve a uniform suspension.
In summary, adherence to the discard timeline is crucial to ensure the medication remains effective and safe for use. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the preparation, storage, and discard timeline of reconstituted medications.