Stability of vancomycin hydrochloride solutions in high concentration and extended time of infusion

Introduction Vancomycin hydrochloride is an antimicrobial commonly used and studied in the treatment of patient with healthcare-associated infections. However, there are few studies related to this drug stability during administration. In intensive care units, mainly pediatric and neonatal, the clinical conditions and specific needs of patients may require longer time of vancomycin hydrochloride infusion or concentrated solutions, different of literature recommendations of a final dilution of 2.5 to 5.0 mg/ml in one hour of infusion. There is a lack of evidences for nursing practice regarding vancomycin hydrochloride infusion in higher concentration and longer time.