Name of the Procedure:

Injection, Garamycin, Gentamicin, up to 80 mg (HCPCS Code: J1580)

Summary

This procedure involves injecting a medication called gentamicin (brand name Garamycin) into the body. Gentamicin is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria.

Purpose

The procedure is used to treat serious bacterial infections, particularly those that do not respond to other antibiotics. The goal is to eliminate the bacterial infection and prevent it from spreading.

Indications

• Severe bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and bloodstream infections.
• Patients who have not responded to other antibiotic treatments.
• Patients with weakened immune systems needing effective bacterial control.

Preparation

• Patients may need to disclose all medications they are currently taking to avoid drug interactions.
• Hearing and kidney function tests might be required before the procedure due to gentamicin's potential side effects.
• No specific fasting is usually required, but follow any instructions given by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will prepare the gentamicin injection, ensuring the correct dosage (up to 80 mg).
2. The injection site will be cleaned and disinfected.
3. Gentamicin will be injected intramuscularly (into a muscle) or intravenously (into a vein).
4. The site of injection will be monitored briefly for any immediate adverse reactions.

Duration

The injection itself takes a few minutes, but the entire process from preparation to post-injection monitoring may take about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in a hospital or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) usually administers the injection.
• A physician or healthcare provider prescribes the medication and dosage.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: mild pain at the injection site, headache, dizziness.
• Rare risks: allergic reactions, kidney damage, hearing loss, balance problems.
• Complications are managed with symptomatic treatment and discontinuation of the medication if severe.

Benefits

• Rapid and effective treatment of severe bacterial infections.
• Prevents the spread of infection, particularly in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients.
• Improvement in symptoms can be seen within a few days.

Recovery

• Patients may need to rest for a few minutes post-injection.
• Follow-up appointments or tests may be required to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and any side effects.
• Patients are advised to stay hydrated and report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider immediately.

Alternatives

• Other antibiotics may be used if the bacteria are susceptible; these alternatives may have different side effect profiles.
• Oral antibiotics might be an option for less severe infections.
• The choice of alternative treatments depends on the type of bacteria and the patient’s overall health condition.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel mild discomfort or pain at the injection site.
• Some patients might experience temporary side effects like dizziness or headache.
• Pain management can include over-the-counter pain relievers and applying a cold pack to the injection site if needed.