The nurse is preparing to administer IV cefazolin to a client with cellulitis. The client's allergies are listed as amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, and sulfa drugs. What should the nurse do first?

Question

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Clients with an allergy to penicillin antibiotics (eg, amoxicillin, ampicillin) can possibly experience a cross-sensitivity reaction to cephalosporin antibiotics (eg, cefazolin, cephalexin, ceftriaxone), because the drug molecules are structurally similar. The nurse should obtain more information about this client's reported allergies, as reactions range from mild to severe. In particular, the nurse must first assess the type of reaction the client had to amoxicillin (Option C). The nurse should then clarify the prescription with the health care provider (HCP) prior to administration. If this client's reaction to amoxicillin was a rash or other mild reaction that was not life-threatening, the HCP may decide that cephalosporin can be safely administered. However, cephalosporins are contraindicated for a client with a history of anaphylactic reactions to penicillin, and a different antibiotic should be prescribed. (Option A) The nurse should hold the medication until more is known about the client's reaction to amoxicillin. (Option B) The nurse must first obtain more information about the reaction so the HCP can make an informed decision about whether the cephalosporin antibiotic can be administered or should be changed. (Option D) The nurse must first obtain more information about the type of allergic reaction before notifying the pharmacy. Educational objective: A client with a penicillin allergy may experience a cross-sensitivity reaction to cephalosporin antibiotics (eg, cefazolin, cephalexin, ceftriaxone). Cephalosporins can typically be administered safely to clients with a history of mild allergic reaction (eg, rash), but are contraindicated in clients with a history of penicillin anaphylaxis.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Administer IV Cefazolin to a Client