What action should the nurse take when administering ciprofloxacin through an IV that contains magnesium sulfate?

When administering ciprofloxacin intravenously, it is crucial to consider the potential for drug interactions, particularly with certain minerals like magnesium. Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that can bind to divalent and trivalent cations, such as magnesium, which can significantly reduce the absorption and effectiveness of the antibiotic.

By choosing to insert a separate IV for administering ciprofloxacin, the nurse ensures that the medication is given in its most effective form without interference from the magnesium sulfate. This separation prevents any direct interaction between the two substances, allowing the ciprofloxacin to work effectively against the infection without being diminished by the presence of magnesium.

In contrast, administering the medication directly through the existing IV or increasing the rate of magnesium sulfate infusion could lead to decreased absorption of ciprofloxacin, potentially compromising treatment efficacy. Switching to oral ciprofloxacin might also be inappropriate in cases where IV administration is clinically necessary, such as in patients who are unable to take oral medications or in severe infections requiring immediate treatment. Therefore, using a separate IV line is the most effective approach to ensure proper administration of the antibiotic while minimizing any potential interactions.