Question

a client with osteoarthritis receives a new prescription for celecoxib orally for symptom management. the nurse notes the client is allergic to sulfa. which action is most important for the nurse to implement prior to administering the first dose?
a notify the healthcare provider.
b record the client’s vital signs.
c inquire about the reaction to sulfa.
d review the client’s hemoglobin results.

Explanation:

Celecoxib has a sulfonamide moiety, so a client allergic to sulfa may have a cross - allergy. The most important action before giving the first dose is to notify the healthcare provider (option A) because this medication may not be safe for the client due to the sulfa allergy, and the provider needs to be informed to adjust the treatment plan. Recording vital signs (B) is a routine but not the most important here. Inquiring about the reaction to sulfa (C) is less critical as the allergy is already noted, and the key is to inform the provider. Reviewing hemoglobin results (D) is irrelevant to the sulfa allergy and celecoxib administration.

Answer:

A. Notify the healthcare provider