A nurse is preparing to give an antibiotic to a patient who reports being allergic to antibiotics. Before giving the medication, what will the nurse do first?

Choice A reason: Questioning why allergies aren’t aren’t in the chart is secondary and confrontational. Clarifying the specific allergy ensures safety, so this is incorrect for the first action. Choice B reason: Identifying the specific antibiotic and reaction verifies the allergy, preventing anaphylaxis or harm. This is the priority safety step, making it the correct first action. Choice C reason: Lowering the dose doesn’t address the allergy risk; allergic reactions can occur regardless. Verifying the allergy is critical first, so this is incorrect. Choice D reason: An antihistamine may mitigate mild reactions but doesn’t confirm the allergy. Clarifying the allergy prevents unsafe administration, so this is incorrect for the first step.