A pediatric patient presents to the emergency department with complaints of shortness of breath, increased work of breathing, and a cough. The patient is alert and oriented at times 3, skin is pink, warm and dry. BP 112/68, T99, P106, RR 32. pulse oximetry 90% on room air. Assessment of the lung sounds reveals diminished lung sounds throughout all lung fields. The patient has a past medical history of peanut allergy. The mother tells you that they were at a birthday party and after consumption of a cupcake, the symptoms started. The nurse anticipates that which of the following medications will likely be ordered for this patient?
Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Guaifenesin
Epinephrine
The Correct Answer is D
A. Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to treat mild allergic reactions, such as seasonal allergies or mild hives. It is not the treatment of choice for severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, which this patient may be experiencing given the symptoms and history of peanut allergy.
B. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can be used for mild to moderate allergic reactions, including urticaria and mild anaphylaxis. While it may be part of anaphylactic treatment, it is not the primary treatment for severe symptoms like difficulty breathing.
C. Guaifenesin: Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to relieve chest congestion and make coughs more productive. It is not appropriate for treating allergic reactions or respiratory distress related to anaphylaxis.
D. Epinephrine: Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, which is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It works by rapidly reducing airway swelling, improving breathing, and stabilizing blood pressure. Given the patient's symptoms and history of peanut allergy, epinephrine is the most appropriate medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Urticaria: Urticaria, or hives, is a skin reaction commonly associated with allergic reactions, not typically with allergic rhinitis. Therefore, this is not a usual symptom of allergic rhinitis.
B. Wheezing: Wheezing is more commonly associated with asthma or other respiratory conditions rather than allergic rhinitis. It is not a typical symptom.
C. Sneezing: Sneezing is a common symptom of allergic rhinitis due to irritation and inflammation of the nasal passages.
D. Nasal congestion: Nasal congestion is a hallmark symptom of allergic rhinitis caused by inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages.
E. Watery eyes: Watery eyes are a frequent symptom of allergic rhinitis, as the allergens can cause irritation in the eyes, leading to excessive tear production.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Stimulates secretions: Expectorants work by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear out. This mechanism helps to reduce cough by facilitating the removal of mucus.
B. Suppresses the urge to cough: Cough suppressants, or antitussives, work by suppressing the cough reflex, not by stimulating secretions. This choice describes a different type of medication used for dry, unproductive coughs.
C. Reduces inflammation: Anti-inflammatory medications reduce inflammation, but they do not specifically target mucus production or the cough reflex. Expectorants do not primarily work by reducing inflammation.
D. Dries mucous membranes: Drying mucous membranes would typically be the action of antihistamines or decongestants, which are not the primary mechanism of action for expectorants. Expectorants aim to keep mucus hydrated to facilitate its removal.
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