Study Guide for Fundamentals of Nursing Care: Concepts, Connections & Skills - Researching and Preparing Medications Related

Review Study Guide for Fundamentals of Nursing Care: Concepts, Connections & Skills - Researching and Preparing Medications related questions and content

A patient with pneumonia is allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics. He tells you that he breaks out in a rash and itches if he takes it. The health-care provider has prescribed cefazolin (Ancef) for him because it is one of the few antibiotics that will kill the bacteria cultured from his sputum. What will you do?

  • A. Hold the medication and notify the health-care provider.
  • B. Give the medication and administer oral diphenhydramine (Benadryl) without an order because it is an OTC medication.
  • C. Ask the supervising nurse to give the medication because the patient may have an allergic reaction.
  • D. Give the medication and watch the patient closely for any signs of anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Due to the patient's known allergy, administering cefazolin risks a severe reaction. Holding the medication and notifying the provider is the safest action.