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Generic Name Cephalexin

Trade Name Keflex

Indication Skin infections, pneumonia, UTI, otitis media

Action Bactericidal: binds to bacterial cell wall leading to cell death

Therapeutic Class Anti-infectives

Pharmacologic Class Cephalosporin 1st generation

Nursing Considerations • Contraindicated with cephalosporin and serious penicillin allergies. • May need lead to seizures, pseudomembranous colitis, diarrhea, phlebitis at IV site, anaphylaxis • Assess infection and allergies • Obtain cultures prior to therapy • Monitor bowel function • May lead to superinfection • May cause elevated liver enzymes