07-17-2011, 08:24 PM
A patient is evaluated for cellulitis on his lower leg. Cephalexin is prescribed. The next day, the patient presents to the emergency department with a rash and moderate bronchospasm. A review of his office record reveals that he is known to have had a severe reaction to penicillin.
After the patient’s condition is stabilized, what is the most appropriate way to handle the discussion of this error with the patient?
( A ) Apologize and explain what happened.
( B ) Attribute the rash and the bronchospasm to his infection.
( C ) Insist that the patient's reaction is unrelated to cephalosporins.
( D ) No explanations are necessary.
After the patient’s condition is stabilized, what is the most appropriate way to handle the discussion of this error with the patient?
( A ) Apologize and explain what happened.
( B ) Attribute the rash and the bronchospasm to his infection.
( C ) Insist that the patient's reaction is unrelated to cephalosporins.
( D ) No explanations are necessary.