Which statement about postoperative antibiotic use in cardiac surgery is false?

The statement regarding the timing of preoperative intravenous (IV) prophylactic antibiotics is critical for preventing surgical site infections, particularly in the context of cardiac surgery. Administering these antibiotics immediately before the surgical incision ensures that optimal drug levels are present in the patient's system during the time of potential contamination, which is typically when the incision is made. This timing plays a pivotal role in maximizing the effectiveness of the antibiotics against any bacteria that may enter the surgical field at that moment.

In cardiac surgery, strong emphasis is placed on the use of effective prophylactic antibiotics to prevent infections, especially given the complex nature of these procedures and the susceptibility of patients due to existing comorbidities. The guidelines recommend that the appropriate antibiotic be administered within an hour before incision so that the tissue concentrations of the medication are at their peak during the crucial period of the procedure.

For the other statements, they accurately reflect established practices in postoperative care. Vancomycin should indeed be used when there's a risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Continuing postoperative antibiotics for 7 to 10 days is aligned with certain guidelines to prevent infections in patients who are at higher risk. Additionally, cephalosporins are commonly chosen for patients who do not have