The primary care provider orders peak and trough levels for a patient who is receiving intravenous vancomycin every 12 hours. When should the nurse obtain a blood specimen to measure the trough?

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Trough levels are measured to determine the lowest concentration of a drug in the patient's bloodstream, ensuring it remains above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) but below toxic levels. For accurate measurement, the blood specimen for a trough level should be drawn approximately 30 minutes before the next dose of the medication is due. This timing ensures that the drug concentration is at its lowest point right before the next dose is administered.

The Primary Care Provider Orders Peak and Trough Levels for a Patient