When the nurse is to give a newly prescribed antibiotic to a patient with an infected surgical incision, which action is essential for the nurse to do before giving the antibiotic?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Performing ordered cultures before giving the antibiotic will help identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and ensure that the prescribed antibiotic is effective against it. This will prevent the unnecessary use of antibiotics and the development of antibiotic resistance. Checking the patient's temperature, documenting the wound's appearance, and giving the patient something to eat are important aspects of the patient's care but are not essential before giving the antibiotic.

When the Nurse Is to Give a Newly Prescribed Antibiotic