Intravenous immunoglobulin: what nurses need to know.

Abstract

Neonatal sepsis continues to be a major source of morbidity and mortality among preterm infants. Although traditional antibiotic therapy continues to be the mainstay of treatment for sepsis, intravenous gammaglobulin (IVIG) is being used in both prevention and treatment of neonatal sepsis as a means to boost the infant's immunocompetence. The article explores the conflicting results of clinical trials testing the efficacy of IVIG for neonatal sepsis. IVIG is discussed with regard to its mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, dosage and administration, adverse reactions, and nursing implications.

• Authors: J B Meaux
• Journal: The Journal of perinatal & neonatal nursing (J Perinat Neonatal Nurs) Vol. 9 Issue 4 Pg. 63-9 (Mar 1996) ISSN: 0893-2190 [Print] United States
• PMID: 8699368 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Immunoglobulins, Intravenous

Topics

• Humans
• Immunoglobulins, Intravenous (therapeutic use)
• Infant, Newborn
• Patient Care Planning
• Sepsis (immunology, therapy)