A nurse is caring for a child who is allergic to penicillin. The nurse should verify which of the following prescriptions with the provider?

A.Cephalexin oral suspension should typically be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its stability and effectiveness. Storing it at room temperature could affect its potency.

B.Shaking the oral suspension is necessary to ensure the medication is evenly distributed before each dose, providing the client with the correct dosage of active ingredients. Failure to shake the suspension can result in uneven dosing.

C.Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic, and there is a potential for cross-sensitivity in clients who are allergic to penicillin. Up to 10% of people with a penicillin allergy may also be allergic to cephalosporins. Checking for a penicillin allergy helps prevent an adverse reaction, making it a critical safety measure before administering cephalexin.

D.While some antibiotics can cause gastrointestinal side effects, constipation is not a common adverse effect associated with cephalexin. The nurse should instead monitor for other side effects like diarrhea, which is more typical with antibiotics and can indicate a mild side effect or a more severe condition, such as Clostridioides difficile infection.

Prophylactic antibiotics are antibiotics given to prevent an infection from occurring. They are often used in situations where there is a high risk of infection, such as during surgery or dental procedures. However, prophylactic antibiotics are not recommended for all clients.

Option b is a situation where prophylactic antibiotics are recommended. Clients with prosthetic heart valves are at an increased risk of developing infective endocarditis (infection of the heart lining) during dental procedures due to the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream.

Option c is another situation where prophylactic antibiotics may be used. Clients who have had an emergency cesarean section are at an increased risk of developing post-operative infections, and prophylactic antibiotics may be given to prevent this.

Option d is also a situation where prophylactic antibiotics may be used. Total hip arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the hip joint with a prosthesis. Clients who undergo this procedure are at an increased risk of developing a surgical site infection, and prophylactic antibiotics may be given to prevent this.

Option a, on the other hand, does not warrant prophylactic antibiotics. A fever of unknown origin does not necessarily indicate an infection, and antibiotics should only be given when there is a confirmed bacterial infection. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance and other adverse effects.