Final answer:
The nurse should question the prescription of ceftriaxone due to the client's allergy to cephalexin, as there is potential for cross-reactivity which could lead to an allergic reaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of an allergy to cephalexin should lead the nurse to question the prescription of ceftriaxone due to potential cross-reactivity among cephalosporin antibiotics.
When preparing to administer antibiotics, it is crucial to consider a patient's known allergies. Ceftriaxone is a third-generation cephalosporin frequently used to treat bacterial infections. Cephalexin, another cephalosporin, shares similar chemical properties with ceftriaxone. Considering that the student has an allergy to cephalexin, there may be a potential for cross-reactivity, as there is a possibility of similar allergic responses to ceftriaxone. Cross-reactivity can lead to an allergic reaction, which can vary from mild to life-threatening. While not all people allergic to one cephalosporin will react to others, it is common practice in healthcare to avoid using cephalosporins in patients with a known allergy to this class of antibiotics unless absolutely necessary, and under careful observation. Therefore, this medical finding should prompt the nurse to flag the prescription and discuss it with the prescribing physician before proceeding. Other findings in the client's medical record, such as white blood cells in the urine, history of hypertension, or being a current tobacco smoker, do not directly contraindicate the use of ceftriaxone.