- If more than one vaccine is being administered at the same time, use dif-
ferent injection sites. - Do not mix vaccines in the same syringe.
- Observe patient for signs and symptoms of adverse reactions to vaccines.
- Keep epinephrine available in the case of anaphylactic reaction.
- Document that a Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) is available from
the CDC for each vaccine administered and is provided to the patient/
family. Be sure to include the date of vaccination, route and site, vaccine
type, manufacturer, lot number, and expiration date, name, address, and
title of individual administering vaccine. - Provide patient with a record of immunizations.
PATIENT EDUCATION FOR VACCINATIONS
Here are facts that patients should know about vaccinations:- Explain risk of contracting vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Female patients of childbearing age must avoid becoming pregnant within
a month of receiving the vaccine. - Provide the patient or family with current Vaccine Information Statements
(VISs) available from CDC for each vaccine administered. Be sure to
include the date of vaccination, route and site, vaccine type, manufacturer,
lot number, and expiration date, name, address, and title of individual
administering vaccine. - Remind patient or family to bring the VIS record to all visits.
- Provide patient or family with date for return for next vaccination.
- Discuss common side effects of receiving the vaccine.
- Tell patient or family to contact healthcare provider if they see signs of a
serious reaction to the vaccine.
IMMUNOSUPPRESSANTS
The development of organ transplants—which include kidneys, liver, heart,
lungs, and pancreas—has led to the development of immunosuppressant drugs.
These drugs are meant to suppress the body’s natural reaction to reject the for-(^324) CHAPTER 17 Immunologic Agents