Question

based on the blood culture and sensitivity results, the healthcare provider prescribes an iv aminoglycoside antibiotic and discontinues the current prescription for another broad spectrum antibiotic. the medication administration record indicates that the client received the broad spectrum antibiotic two hours ago. which action should the nurse implement?

a withhold antibiotic administration until the healthcare provider clarifies the prescriptions

b schedule the initial dose of the aminoglycoside antibiotic for the following day

c administer the initial dose of the aminoglycoside antibiotic as soon as possible

d obtain peak and trough serum levels so the aminoglycoside antibiotic can be initiated.

Explanation:

The healthcare provider has prescribed a new IV aminoglycoside antibiotic based on blood culture results, and the previous broad - spectrum antibiotic was given 2 hours ago. Aminoglycoside antibiotics are typically started as soon as possible when prescribed for an infection (based on culture - guided therapy). Option A is incorrect because the provider has already prescribed the new antibiotic, so there's no need to wait for clarification. Option B is wrong as there's no reason to delay the initial dose until the next day when the patient needs antibiotic therapy. Option D is incorrect because peak and trough levels are monitored during therapy, not before initiating the first dose. So the nurse should administer the initial dose of the aminoglycoside antibiotic as soon as possible.

Answer:

C. Administer the initial dose of the aminoglycoside antibiotic as soon as possible