Preparation for Lamivudine 150 mg Administration- A Nurse’s Careful Dose Dispensing

A nurse is preparing to administer lamivudine 150 mg to a patient who has been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B. Lamivudine is a nucleoside analog that is commonly used to treat this condition, as it helps to reduce the viral load and prevent the progression of liver disease. The nurse understands the importance of this medication and is taking all necessary precautions to ensure its safe and effective administration.

Lamivudine works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which is essential for the replication of the hepatitis B virus. By doing so, it helps to control the virus and reduce the risk of liver damage. The nurse is aware that the dosage of lamivudine may vary depending on the patient’s weight, age, and the severity of their condition. In this case, the prescribed dose is 150 mg, which is a standard dose for many patients with chronic hepatitis B.

Before administering the medication, the nurse carefully reviews the patient’s medical history and any potential drug interactions. It is crucial to ensure that the patient is not allergic to lamivudine or any of its ingredients. The nurse also checks the patient’s blood work to assess their liver function and to determine if any adjustments to the dosage are necessary.

Once the nurse has confirmed that the patient is ready for the injection, she proceeds with the preparation of the medication. She first washes her hands thoroughly and dons appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and a mask, to prevent the risk of infection. The nurse then retrieves the lamivudine vial from the medication cabinet and verifies the expiration date and lot number to ensure its quality and safety.

Next, the nurse draws up the prescribed dose of lamivudine into a syringe, using a sterile needle. She double-checks the dosage to ensure accuracy and then gently swivels the syringe to mix the medication. The nurse then selects the appropriate injection site, which is typically the deltoid muscle or the anterolateral aspect of the thigh, depending on the patient’s preference and the nurse’s judgment.

With the patient in a comfortable position, the nurse cleans the injection site with an alcohol swab and then administers the lamivudine 150 mg subcutaneously. She applies gentle pressure to the site after injecting the medication to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of bleeding. The nurse then removes her gloves and disposed of them properly, ensuring that the patient’s privacy and safety are maintained throughout the process.

After the injection, the nurse monitors the patient for any immediate adverse reactions, such as redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. She also assesses the patient’s vital signs and asks about any new or worsening symptoms. The nurse educates the patient on the importance of taking lamivudine as prescribed and informs them of potential side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, and headache.

In conclusion, the nurse’s careful preparation and administration of lamivudine 150 mg demonstrate her commitment to providing high-quality care for patients with chronic hepatitis B. By following proper protocols and ensuring patient safety, the nurse plays a crucial role in managing this condition and improving the patient’s overall health and well-being.