Pneumococcal vaccine (Pneumovax 23) may ↓ response; do not administer concomitantly.
Route/Dosage⬆⬇
SC (Adults ≥50 yr): 0.65 mL (contents of 1 vial).
Availability⬆⬇
Lyophylized powder for injection (with diluent): at least 19,400 PFU/0.65 mL
Assessment⬆⬇
Assess patient for immunosuppressant medications or reactions to previous vaccines. Administration may result in a more extensive vaccine-associated rash or disseminated disease in immunocompromised patients.
Implementation⬆⬇
SC: Reconstitute using only diluent supplied. Use a separate sterile needle for reconstitution and administration. Vaccine is stored frozen; reconstitute immediately upon removing from freezer. Store diluent at room temperature. Withdraw entire contents of diluent into syringe and inject into vaccine vial. Agitate gently to mix. Solution should be semi-hazy to translucent, off-white to pale yellow. Do not administer solutions that are discolored or contain particulate matter. Administer only subcut, preferably in the upper arm. Have epinephrine injection available in case of anaphylactic reactions.
Discard vaccine if not used within 30 min of reconstitution. Do not freeze reconstituted solution.
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Explain purpose of vaccine to patient. Provide patient with a copy of the Patient Information Sheet.
Advise patient to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or expected. Pregnancy should be avoided for 3 mo after administration of vaccine.