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Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis and treatment ( 3 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who has a history of allergic reactions to penicillin. The client is prescribed cefazolin for a wound infection. Which of the following actions should the nurse take before administering the medication?
Cefazolin is a cephalosporin antibiotic, which has a cross-sensitivity with penicillin. Therefore, the nurse should ask the client about any previous reactions to cephalosporins before giving the medication.
Incorrect because an antihistamine will not prevent a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, which requires epinephrine.
Is incorrect because monitoring vital signs after the injection is not enough to prevent or treat an allergic reaction.
Is incorrect because diluting the medication will not affect its potential to cause an allergic reaction.
Rationale: Cefazolin is a cephalosporin antibiotic, which has a cross-sensitivity with penicillin. Therefore, the nurse should ask the client about any previous reactions to cephalosporins before giving the medication.
Option B is incorrect because an antihistamine will not prevent a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, which requires epinephrine.
Option C is incorrect because monitoring vital signs after the injection is not enough to prevent or treat an allergic reaction.
Option D is incorrect because diluting the medication will not affect its potential to cause an allergic reaction.