The nurse is preparing to administer the first dose of an antibiotic to a patient admitted for a urinary tract infection. Which action is most important prior to administering the antibiotic?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Obtaining a urine specimen for culture and sensitivity is the most important action prior to administering antibiotics for a urinary tract infection. This will help determine the type of bacteria causing the infection and which antibiotic is most appropriate to use. It is important to note that while administering a small test dose to determine hypersensitivity and having epinephrine available are important safety measures, obtaining a urine specimen takes priority in this situation. Monitoring baseline vital signs is also important, but is not the most crucial action prior to administering the antibiotic.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Administer the First Dose of an Antibiotic