Antibiotics

Recommended for all open combat wounds

       a. If able to take PO medications:

               - Moxifloxacin, 400 mg PO once a day

      b. If unable to take PO medications (shock, unconsciousness):

              - Ertapenem, 1 g IV/IM once a day

Antibiotics Key Points

Moxifloxacin is broad spectrum and kills most bacteria. It has few side effects. Give as soon as possible after life-threatening conditions have been addressed. Delays in antibiotic administration increase the risk of wound infections.

  • IM ertapenem should be diluted with lidocaine (1 gm vial ertapenem with 3.2cc lidocaine without epinephrine). 
  • IM- administer into a deep muscle mass (gluteal, lateral thigh). 
  • IM-use within 1 hour after preparation.
  • IV requires a 30-minute infusion time. 

The Combat Wound Medication Pack contains the following components: 

            - Moxifloxacin 400 mg one tablet (one), 

            - Meloxicam 15 mg one tablet (one),

           - and Acetaminophen 1300 mg extended release, (2) 650 mg caplets.

These meds should be carried by EVERYONE in the unit and self-administered as soon as possible after sustaining a wound.

Screen your units for drug allergies!

Patients with allergies to aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should not use Mobic.

Patients with allergies to fluoroquinolones, penicillins, or cephalosporins may need alternate antibiotics which should be selected by unit medical personnel during the pre-deployment phase. 

Check with your unit physician if unsure.