NCLEX RN Practice Question

The correct action is to verify the client’s reaction to penicillin and assess the potential for cross-reactivity with the prescribed antibiotic. Certain antibiotic classes, like cephalosporins, share structural similarities with penicillin that could trigger a cross-reactive allergic reaction. Administering the antibiotic without clarifying allergy details increases the client’s risk for severe adverse effects, including anaphylaxis. Conducting a skin sensitivity test is not within the routine scope of a nurse’s responsibilities and requires a provider order. Preemptively administering an antihistamine is inappropriate because it does not address the underlying cause of the allergic reaction risk and does not guarantee safety.