Northside Hospital - Special Beginnings

MEDICATIONS These medications are commonly given to infants in the SCN.

Medication Name

Why does my baby need this medication?

Possible side effects of this medication May cause a rash and/or fever (rare in babies)

How will my baby receive this medication?

Given to prevent and treat infections

Given through an IV or as a shot in the leg

Ampicillin

May cause restlessness or increased urination

Given through an IV or by mouth

Caffeine Citrate

Given to stimulate breathing

May cause changes in heart rate; may be irritating to veins

Given through an IV or by mouth

Given to prevent and treat low calcium levels

Calcium Gluconate

Dextrose (D10W Bolus)

Given to treat low blood sugar May cause high blood sugar Given through an IV

A small amount of ointment will be placed into each eye soon after birth Given through an IV as your baby needs it, or as a continuous IV infusion

Given to prevent & treat infections of the eye that can be acquired upon delivery

Erythromycin ointment

May appear as drainage in your baby’s eyes

Given for comfort and pain relief

May affect breathing, may cause decreased urination

Fentanyl

May cause decreased urination; in rare cases may affect hearing May affect breathing and/or cause muscle twitching Rapid infusion increases the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage

Given through an IV or as a shot in the leg

Given to prevent and treat infections

Gentamicin

Lorazepam (Ativan)

Given through an IV or by mouth

Given for agitation

Normal Saline Bolus

Given to treat low blood volume/low blood pressure

Given through an IV

Given to prevent and treat bleeding disorders in newborn babies Given to make the lungs more elastic (usually given to premature babies whose lungs aren’t fully developed) Given to assess IV sites and when giving IV medications Given for pain relief prior to minor procedures (i.e. heel sticks, IV starts)

Phytonadione (Vitamin K)

May cause discomfort and swelling at the injection site

Given as a shot in your baby’s leg soon after birth

Given through the breathing tube. The first dose is often given in the delivery room.

May cause drops in oxygen levels while being administered

Poractant Alpha (Curosurf)

Saline/ Heparin Flush

Given through an IV as needed

No known side effects

Sucrose

No known side effects

Given by mouth

This document provides limited information on the medications used in the SCN. It is not inclusive of all side effects. Please contact your infant’s nurse, physician, nurse practitioner or pharmacist if you require further information.

Special Beginnings in the Special Care Nurseries

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