A patient receiving IV vancomycin has orders for "vancomycin trough levels." The patient's next dose of vancomycin is due at 1000.Based on this information, the nurse should plan for the specimen to be drawn at:
A)0800, or at least 2 hours prior to the scheduled dose
B)0930, or immediately prior to beginning the scheduled 1000 dose
C)1000, as infusion of the next dose has started
D)1100, when the infusion is completed

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vancomycin trough levels are typically drawn immediately before the next dose is due to ensure that the drug concentration does not fall below the therapeutic range. Drawing the specimen at 0930, right before the 1000 dose, allows for the most accurate measurement of the lowest concentration of the drug in the patient's bloodstream.

A Patient Receiving IV Vancomycin Has Orders for "Vancomycin Trough