What is the priority action before starting antibiotic therapy?

Verifying that the client does not have an allergy to an antibiotic is a critical step before starting antibiotic therapy. This action ensures patient safety by preventing possible adverse reactions, which can range from mild allergic responses to severe anaphylactic reactions. By confirming the absence of allergies, healthcare providers can select appropriate antibiotics and minimize the risk of complications during treatment.

Checking the client’s vital signs is important, but it does not specifically mitigate the risks associated with allergies to antibiotics. Likewise, administering a dose of antibiotics without ensuring safety could lead to severe allergic reactions if the patient has a known allergy. Consulting with a physician may be necessary in certain situations; however, this step should not take precedence over ensuring the patient’s safety regarding allergies. Therefore, confirming the absence of allergies is the most crucial initial action in the process of administering antibiotic therapy.