Perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis: the importance of timing

1. Although prophylactic antibiotics have demonstrated efficacy in surgical procedures, they can fail because, generally, an inappropriate agent is used or the agent is inappropriately administered. 2. The timing of administration is important. Studies indicate that to reduce the risk of infection, high levels of antibiotic must be present in the bloodstream and tissues at the time of the incision. 3. Nurses play a central role in ensuring the proper timing of the administration of prophylactic antibiotics. Improvement in the timing of administration will reduce both morbidity and institutional costs.