Final answer:
Three serious reactions to vancomycin include nephrotoxicity, hypersensitivity reactions, and Clostridium difficile infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Three serious reactions a patient may have with the use of vancomycin include:
- Vancomycin-associated nephrotoxicity: Vancomycin can cause kidney damage, leading to reduced kidney function and possible kidney failure. Symptoms may include decreased urine output, swelling, and electrolyte imbalances.
- Hypersensitivity reactions: Vancomycin can trigger allergic reactions in some patients, ranging from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis. Symptoms may include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, and low blood pressure.
- Clostridium difficile infection: Vancomycin can disrupt the normal gut flora, increasing the risk of Clostridium difficile infection. This can cause severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications such as pseudomembranous colitis.