All antimicrobials should be administered within 1 hour prior to incision, unless otherwise indicated
Note: cefazolin does not share any side chains with any other beta-lactam antibiotic.
When used for surgical prophylaxis, cefazolin is more effective and associated with fewer adverse effects compared to non-beta-lactams
For questions regarding choice of antimicrobial surgical prophylaxis, contact the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program
Please call pharmacy for patients with impaired renal function to assist with antimicrobial dosing
Patients on Systemic Antibiotics for Other Indications
Surgical prophylaxis should still be administered pre-incision, unless systemic antibiotics are given in the prior 60 minutes (120 minutes if vancomycin) and have an otherwise appropriate spectrum of activity for prevention of surgical site infections.
Patients with Blood Loss or Severe Burns