A nurse is preparing to give an antibiotic to a patient who reports being allergic to antibiotics. Before giving the medication, it is important for the nurse to do what?

Question

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The nurse needs to assess whether the patient is truly allergic to this drug. Allergic reactions require previous exposure to the drug, so the nurse should ask whether the patient has taken this antibiotic before. Obtaining a history of drug allergies and of reactions to medications also is important, but not as important as finding out about possible allergic reactions to a drug about to be given. Antihistamines sometimes are given when patients must take a drug to which they are allergic.

A Nurse Is Preparing to Give an Antibiotic to a Patient