When teaching an adolescent about a new prescription for cefazolin, what adverse effect should be monitored?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of monitoring for skin rash or urticaria as an adverse effect of cefazolin. Cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a history of penicillin allergies, because of similar beta-lactam structures. Skin rashes, including localized rashes, urticaria (hives), or more severe reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, may manifest as part of these allergic reactions, making it crucial for health care providers to assess for these symptoms after the initiation of therapy.

Monitoring for skin-related adverse effects is a standard practice because these reactions can range from mild to severe. Early detection and intervention are vital to ensure patient safety, especially in adolescents who may be less aware of the implications of these symptoms. While nausea and vomiting, fatigue and dizziness, and headache and fever can occur with various medications, they are not as closely associated specifically with cefazolin compared to skin reactions. Therefore, prioritizing the monitoring for skin rash or urticaria reinforces the need for vigilance in recognizing potential allergic responses in patients receiving this medication.