Summary NUR 3128 Pharmacology: Antibiotics Fundamentals, Classes, MOA, Side Effects & Nursing Alerts

PHARMACOLOGY: ANTIBIOTICS — FUNDAMENTALS SUMMARY
Course fit: Pharmacology | Medical-Surgical Nursing | NCLEX-RN
Focus: Classes • MOA • Side Effects • Nursing Alerts • Patient Education

WHAT ARE ANTIBIOTICS?
Drugs that kill bacteria (bactericidal) or inhibit growth of bacteria (bacteriostatic).
❌ Do NOT treat viral infections.

ANTIBIOTIC CLASSES
1.Penicillins
2.Cephalosporins
3.Macrolides
4.Fluoroquionolones
5.Tetracycline
6.Aminoglycosides
7.Sulfonamides

1. Penicillins (-cillin)

Examples: amoxicillin, penicillin G
MOA: Inhibit cell wall synthesis → bacterial death
Side Effects: Allergy, Rash, Anaphylaxis (life-threatening)
Nursing Alerts:
 Check penicillin allergy
 Watch for cross-sensitivity (cephalosporins)
Patient Education:
 Take full course
 Report rash, itching, SOB immediately

2. Cephalosporins (cef- / ceph-)

Examples: ceftriaxone, cefazolin
MOA: Cell wall synthesis inhibition
Side Effects: GI upset, allergy
Nursing Alerts:
 Use caution with PCN allergy (cross-sensitivity)
Patient Education:
 Finish medication
 Report severe diarrhea (Clostridioides difficile risk)

3. Macrolides (-thromycin)

Examples: azithromycin, erythromycin
MOA: Inhibit protein synthesis (50S ribosome)
Side Effects: GI upset, QT prolongation
Nursing Alerts:
 Monitor ECG in cardiac patients
 Drug interactions common
Patient Education:
 Avoid antacids close to dosing


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