Name of the Procedure:

Injection, meropenem, 100 mg (HCPCS Code: J2185)

Summary

Meropenem is an antibiotic medication administered via injection. It is used to treat a variety of severe bacterial infections, including skin infections, abdominal infections, and meningitis.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the meropenem injection is to eradicate bacteria causing severe infections in the body. By administering meropenem, doctors aim to cure the infection, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications associated with bacterial infections.

Indications

Meropenem is indicated for:

• Complicated skin and skin structure infections
• Complicated intra-abdominal infections
• Bacterial meningitis
• Hospital-acquired pneumonia
• Sepsis

Patient criteria include those with confirmed or suspected bacterial infections that are severe and potentially life-threatening.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or extensive preparation required.
• Patients may need to inform their healthcare provider about any allergies, particularly to antibiotics.
• A blood test or other diagnostic tests may be performed to confirm the type of infection and its severity.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider will first sanitize the site of injection, typically located on the upper arm, thigh, or buttocks.
2. Using a sterile syringe, the precise 100 mg dose of meropenem will be drawn from a vial.
3. The drug will then be administered via intravenous (IV) injection or infusion over a period, as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
4. The injection site will be monitored for any immediate adverse reactions.

Duration

Administering the injection itself typically takes a few minutes, although an IV infusion may take up to 30 minutes.

Setting

Meropenem injections are usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or urgent care center.

Personnel

• Physician or Nurse Practitioner to order the medication.
• Registered Nurse or trained medical professional to administer the injection.
• Pharmacist to prepare the medication.

Risks and Complications

Common risks include:

• Injection site pain or inflammation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Rare but serious complications may include:

• Severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea
• Seizures (particularly in patients with renal impairment)

Benefits

• Rapid and effective treatment of severe bacterial infections.
• Reduction in infection-related symptoms and quicker resolution of infection.
• Prevention of infection-related complications.

Recovery

• Monitor the injection site for signs of infection or adverse reactions.
• Patients are generally advised to rest and stay hydrated.
• A follow-up appointment may be necessary to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

Alternatives

Other treatment options might include:

• Different classes of antibiotics (e.g., penicillins, cephalosporins) depending on the bacterial strain and patient’s medical history.
• Oral antibiotics for less severe infections. Pros and cons:
• Oral antibiotics may be less effective for severe infections.
• Certain antibiotics have different side effect profiles and may pose fewer risks than meropenem.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel a slight pinch or burning sensation at the injection site. Post-injection, they may experience mild discomfort but are generally able to resume normal activities shortly after. Pain management and comfort measures include over-the-counter pain relievers and warm compresses to the injection site if needed.