What should be monitored for when administering antimicrobials?

When administering antimicrobials, it is crucial to monitor for allergic reactions due to the potential for serious and sometimes life-threatening responses. Many patients may have a history of allergies to specific medications, and these reactions can occur with either the first dose or after several doses of the antimicrobial. Common allergic reactions include rashes, urticaria (hives), and more severe responses such as anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. Before initiating treatment, a thorough patient history should be taken to identify any previous allergic reactions to antibiotics, and patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of possible allergic reactions during the course of treatment.

Other aspects such as signs of overdose, insulin levels, and blood pressure changes may be relevant in different contexts or with specific drugs, but they are not the central concerns when monitoring the administration of antimicrobials. The primary focus remains on identifying and managing any allergic responses to ensure patient safety.