Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Important Patient Counseling Points for Procrit

USED FOR:
Treatment of anemia by stimulating the growth of red blood cells

PRIOR TO ADMINISTRATION:
  • Keep refrigerated (DO NOT FREEZE) and protected from light
  • Do NOT shake the vial
  • Check the expiration date, and make sure the solution is clear and colorless with no particulate matter inside
  • Prepare supplies for injection, wash hands well

ADMINISTRATION:
Can be injected subcutaneously or IV (hemodialysis patients)
1.       Do not inject into an area that is tender/bruised/hard/has scars or stretch marks
a.       Acceptable injection sites:
                                                                           i.      Outer portion of upper arm
                                                                         ii.      Abdomen
                                                                        iii.      Front middle thigh
                                                                       iv.      Upper outer area of buttocks
2.       Clean area with an alcohol wipe, let dry
3.       Use free hand to pinch a fold of the skin at the desired injection site, keeping hands away from the cleaned area
4.       Use a quick motion to insert at 90 degree or 45 degree angle and inject the prescribed dose.
5.       Remove syringe and hold gauze or cotton ball over injection site for several seconds
6.       Dispose of the syringe & needle in an appropriate container


BLACK BOX WARNING 
Increased risk of death, MI, stroke, VTE, tumor progression
o   At risk patients: CKD, patients with breast, NSCLC, head and neck, lymphoid and cervical cancers, perisurgery patients (require VTE prophylaxis)
        

SIDE EFFECTS

  • Injection site irritation, increased BP, fever, headache, upset stomach, joint pain, and cough
  • Let doctor know if you experience racing heart, chest pain, severe dizziness
  • Increased risk of clotting: monitor for redness, swelling, warmth, pain in extremities


Resources:
1. Procrit Instructions for use. <http://assets.procrit.com/shared/product/procrit/procrit-instructions-for-use.pdf>
2. Lexicomp. Available at <http://online.lexi.com.proxy.lib.uiowa.edu/lco/action/home/switch>
3. Facts & Comparisons. Available at <http://online.factsandcomparisons.com.proxy. lib.uiowa.edu/index.aspx?>

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