Your patient is scheduled for a total knee replacement and claims to be allergic to penicillin. She states the allergic reaction was a maculopapular rash that took place 20 years ago. A dose of 2 g of cefazolin has been ordered by the orthopedic surgeon. According to a recent literature review on cephalosporin administration in patients claiming to be allergic to penicillin, which of the following is most likely true in this patient?
Perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis (AMP) often is the responsibility of the anesthesiologist. The proper dose and timing of AMP is crucial in the prevention of surgical site infections (SSIs); however, anesthesiologists often lack education regarding antibiotic administration. Both SSIs and the inappropriate administration of alternative antibiotics in patients who claim to have a penicillin allergy are associated with increased perioperative morbidity and mortality.
Cefazolin, a first-generation cephalosporin with potency against skin bacteria (e.g., gram-positive cocci) and limited activity...
