Question

A client with osteoarthritis receives a new prescription for celecoxib (Celebrex) 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) Administer the medication as prescribed.
B) Withhold the medication and notify the healthcare provider.
C) Assess for any other allergies the client may have.
D) Instruct the client to take an antihistamine before each dose.

Answer 1

The nurse should withhold the medication and notify the healthcare provider if the client with osteoarthritis is allergic to sulfa. It is important to consult the healthcare provider before administering celecoxib (Celebrex).

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important action for the nurse to implement before administering the first dose of celecoxib (Celebrex) to a client with osteoarthritis who is allergic to sulfa is to withhold the medication and notify the healthcare provider. This is because celecoxib is a COX-2 selective inhibitor and some COX-2 inhibitors have a cross-reactivity risk for patients with sulfa allergies. It is crucial to consult the healthcare provider for further guidance before administering the medication.

Celecoxib (Celebrex) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that belongs to the class of selective COX-2 inhibitors. Some individuals who are allergic to sulfa drugs may also exhibit cross-reactivity with certain medications, including celecoxib. Therefore, if a client has a known sulfa allergy, the nurse must withhold the medication and promptly notify the healthcare provider.

The healthcare provider can then reassess the client's allergy history, consider alternative medications, or take appropriate precautions based on the specific clinical situation. Administering the medication without further clarification in the presence of a known sulfa allergy could lead to an allergic reaction, and it is important to prioritize patient safety.

Answer 2

The most important action for the nurse to implement prior to administering celecoxib to a client with osteoarthritis who is allergic to sulfa is to withhold the medication and notify the healthcare provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important action for the nurse to implement prior to administering the first dose of celecoxib (Celebrex) to a client with osteoarthritis who is allergic to sulfa is option B) Withhold the medication and notify the healthcare provider.

This is because celecoxib belongs to a class of medications called COX-2 inhibitors, and some COX-2 inhibitors are chemically related to sulfonamides, which can cause allergic reactions in individuals allergic to sulfa drugs.

Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to withhold the medication and notify the healthcare provider to prevent a potential allergic reaction.