Perioperative Pharmacology: A Focus on Aminoglycosides

Aminoglycosides are used to treat aerobic gram-negative infections and can be administered with other antibiotics to treat resistant gram-positive infections. Aminoglycosides are most often administered topically or parenterally. During the surgical period, surgeons may use aminoglycosides to irrigate wounds or may apply them directly to surgical incisions. Because aminoglycosides are excreted almost exclusively via the renal system, health care providers must carefully consider the patient's renal function before selecting these medications for treatment. Aminoglycosides can produce several significant adverse effects, including nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Perioperative nurses should familiarize themselves with aminoglycosides, particularly focusing on dosage, monitoring requirements, and effects in special populations.