A patient’s vancomycin trough, which was drawn 30 minutes after the dose, was 32 μg/mL. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

The patient is brought to the emergency department after sudden onset slurring of the words, confusion, and right-sided weakness that started 3 hours ago. Aspirin was given by emergency response. He has a history of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia for which he is compliant with therapy. He smokes 2 packs of cigarettes per day. Upon assessment, the patient’s temperature is 37.4°C, heart rate is 118 bpm, and blood pressure is 204/118 mmHg.  A stat computed tomography (CT) scan shows an area of hyperechogenicity on the left side of the brain. The nurse prepares to provide which medication?  

The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis by Gram stain. There is no culture or antibiotic susceptibility information back from the lab. The nurse will most likely administer which of the following medications?