A nurse is preparing to administer oxacillin 375 mg intramuscularly (im). As a crucial component of antibiotic therapy, oxacillin is used to treat various bacterial infections, including those caused by penicillin-resistant organisms. The nurse’s meticulous preparation ensures the safe and effective delivery of this medication to the patient.
The nurse begins by gathering all necessary supplies for the injection. This includes a prefilled syringe containing oxacillin 375 mg, a sterile needle, alcohol swabs, gloves, and a sharps container. Adhering to strict aseptic technique is paramount to prevent contamination and infection.
After donning gloves and selecting the appropriate needle size, the nurse locates the injection site. Typically, the deltoid muscle in the upper arm or the vastus lateralis muscle in the thigh is chosen for intramuscular injections. The nurse ensures the site is free of any blemishes or scars and marks the injection point with a sterile marker.
Next, the nurse cleans the injection site with an alcohol swab in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward. This process is repeated two to three times to ensure thorough cleansing. The nurse then waits for the alcohol to dry before proceeding with the injection.
With the syringe and needle ready, the nurse pierces the skin at a 90-degree angle and inserts the needle to the desired depth. The needle is advanced slowly, and the nurse visually checks for blood return to confirm proper needle placement. If blood is aspirated, the needle is withdrawn slightly and repositioned to avoid entering a blood vessel.
Once the needle is correctly positioned, the nurse injects the oxacillin 375 mg slowly and steadily. After the medication is administered, the nurse removes the needle and applies gentle pressure to the injection site with a sterile gauze pad. The pad is then secured with a bandage to prevent bleeding.
The nurse documents the administration of oxacillin 375 mg im, including the time, dosage, and patient’s response. It is essential to maintain accurate records to monitor the patient’s progress and ensure proper treatment adherence.
Throughout the entire process, the nurse maintains a calm and professional demeanor, providing reassurance to the patient. As a healthcare professional, the nurse’s role in administering oxacillin 375 mg im is vital in treating bacterial infections and promoting the patient’s recovery.
