First-generation cephalosporin commonly used in surgery?

First-generation cephalosporin commonly used in surgery?

• A. Cefazolin (Ancef)
• B. Cephalexin
• C. Cefotaxime
• D. Ceftazidime

Answer: (A)

Cefazolin (Ancef) is the first-generation cephalosporin commonly used in surgery because it provides strong coverage against skin flora like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species, has reliable tissue penetration, and is given IV for timely perioperative prophylaxis. It’s the standard choice to reduce surgical site infections in many clean procedures, with dosing timed to ensure adequate levels at incision. Cephalexin is an oral first-generation option intended for outpatient skin infections, not typical for intraoperative prophylaxis. Cefotaxime and ceftazidime are third-generation cephalosporins with broader gram-negative coverage and are not the preferred first-line choices for routine surgical prophylaxis.

Cefazolin (Ancef) is the first-generation cephalosporin commonly used in surgery because it provides strong coverage against skin flora like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species, has reliable tissue penetration, and is given IV for timely perioperative prophylaxis. It’s the standard choice to reduce surgical site infections in many clean procedures, with dosing timed to ensure adequate levels at incision.

Cephalexin is an oral first-generation option intended for outpatient skin infections, not typical for intraoperative prophylaxis. Cefotaxime and ceftazidime are third-generation cephalosporins with broader gram-negative coverage and are not the preferred first-line choices for routine surgical prophylaxis.