Ganciclovir: treatment of cytomegalovirus in immunocompromised individuals

Ganciclovir is synthetic antiviral agent that interferes with the CMV DNA synthesis. Administered intravenously, the antiviral drug can effectively stop the CMV herpes virus from replicating in adolescents and adults. CMV does pose a serious threat to immunocompromised individuals. Nursing care of patients receiving ganciclovir should include a complete assessment, predosing laboratory work and a complete drug and allergy history. Proper administration of ganciclovir, observation of side effects, and documentation are the responsibility of the nephrology nurse.