- 1st generation cephalosporin, moderate spectrum antibiotic active against staphylococci, streptococci, and some Gram-positive anaerobes. It has poor activity against Gram-negative bacilli.
- Interferes with bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins, leading to cell lysis and death.
- Reduces incidence of infection in fractures and surgical procedures.
- Peak action around 90 minutes. Excreted unchanged in the urine, with 80% excreted in first 24 hours.
Antibiotic prophylaxis for;
- Open fractures
- Significant wounds that are grossly contaminated and cannot be cleaned
- Traumatic pneumothorax that requires pleural decompression by finger thoracostomy
- History of allergy to cephalosporins or of immediate or severe hypersensitivity to penicillins
- Isolated open fracture of the distal phalanx
- Patients with closed fractures that do not meet any other indiciation
- Do not delay transport for the administration of antibiotics
- The safety of cefazolin for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established (Category B1), the benefit in this scenario outweighs the risk
- Increased risk of bleeding due to effect on clotting factors, monitor INR in patients on anticoagulants
- Cefazolin should not be given via the same administration line as any blood products
- Intramuscular administration (IM) route not to be used
- Where possible, prophylactic use of antibiotics in surgical procedures should occur prior to the commencement of the procedure if resources allow.
- Reconstitute 2g powder vial with 19mL of water for injection in 20mL syringe to make a concentration of 100mg/ml.
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IV Cefazolin for fractures/prophylaxis
Adult:
- 2 g IV, administered over 3-5 minutes
Paediatric:
- 30 mg/kg IV (maximum of 2 g) administered over 3-5 minutes
- Reconstitute 1 g vial with 9.5 mL of water for injection to make a concentration of 100 mg/mL; administer at concentration of 100 mg/mL or weaker
- Allergy & anaphylaxis
- Nausea & vomiting
- Rash
- Pain and inflammation at injection site
2g powder for injection
| Settings | |
|---|---|
| Current mode: | |
| Extended Care: | |
| Colour assist: | |
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