Final answer:
Patients do not always require an EKG before taking ondansetron, but it may be necessary for those with specific heart-related risk factors to ensure safe medication use.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ondansetron, known by the brand name Zofran, is a medication commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or post-surgery. An EKG, or electrocardiogram, is not routinely required before administering ondansetron for all patients. However, ondansetron has been associated with changes in the heart's rhythm, such as QT prolongation, particularly in patients with specific risk factors, including those with electrolyte abnormalities, congestive heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, or patients taking other medications that can lead to QT prolongation.
Therefore, for patients with these risk factors, it may be advisable to have an EKG before ondansetron is administered, to ensure safe use of the medication. A healthcare provider will decide whether an EKG is necessary based on the individual patient's risk profile and health background.