A nurse is caring for a client who has a fractured ulna and a new prescription for cyclobenzaprine. Before administering, which of the following explanations should the nurse provide to explain the purpose of the medication?

A. Peripheral IV in large vein
Vancomycin should be administered through a large-bore IV to minimize the risk of complications such as phlebitis and to ensure effective drug delivery. This is a key factor in safely administering the medication.
B. Dosage in safe range
Confirming that the dosage is within the safe range ensures that the medication is administered at an effective but non-toxic level. Proper dosing is essential for achieving therapeutic effects without causing harm.
C. No known allergies
Ensuring that the client has no known allergies to vancomycin is critical to prevent allergic reactions. This step is necessary for the safe administration of the antibiotic.
D. Potassium 4.4 mEq/L (4.4 mmol/L)
While normal potassium levels are important for overall health, they do not specifically indicate the safety of vancomycin administration. Other factors such as IV access and dosage are more directly related to the safety of vancomycin.
E. Used for prophylaxis
Vancomycin is used for endocarditis prophylaxis in this case, which aligns with the clinical guidelines for preventing infections. Understanding the purpose of the medication supports its appropriate use in the client’s care.
F. Blood urea nitrogen 17 mg/dL (6.07 mmol/L)
An elevated BUN level might indicate renal impairment, which could affect vancomycin metabolism. However, this level alone does not directly address the immediate safety of administering the antibiotic compared to other factors like IV access and dosage.

A. Allergies
Allergies are important to know but are not part of the primary survey. The primary survey focuses on immediate life threats, such as airway, breathing, and circulation, rather than detailed background information.
B. Circulation
Assessment of circulation is critical in the primary survey to identify and manage life-threatening conditions such as shock or severe bleeding. It includes evaluating blood pressure, heart rate, and peripheral pulses to assess the effectiveness of the cardiovascular system.
C. Neurological status
While neurological status is important, it is part of a secondary survey rather than the primary survey. The primary survey focuses on immediate life-threatening conditions, while the neurological status is assessed more thoroughly in the secondary survey.
D. Ventilation
Assessing ventilation is a crucial part of the primary survey. This involves checking the client's breathing rate, depth, and effectiveness to ensure adequate oxygenation and addressing any immediate respiratory distress.
E. Current medications
Knowing current medications is important for overall care but is not part of the primary survey. The primary survey addresses life-threatening conditions rather than details of medication history.
F. Exposure
Exposure is part of the primary survey, ensuring that the client is completely exposed for a thorough assessment while protecting their privacy and warmth. It involves checking for hidden injuries and ensuring the client’s environment is safe.