In reviewing a plan of care for a patient exhibiting the symptoms of anaphylaxis, which of the following medications would be avoided?
Antihistamines
Vasodilators
Corticosteroids
Bronchodilators
The Correct Answer is B
A) Antihistamines:
Antihistamines are commonly used in the treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is released during an allergic reaction, and can help alleviate symptoms such as itching, hives, and nasal congestion. Antihistamines are typically included in the treatment regimen for anaphylaxis but should not be relied upon as the sole treatment.
B) Vasodilators.
Vasodilators are medications that widen blood vessels, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. In the context of anaphylaxis, where blood pressure can drop precipitously due to systemic vasodilation, the use of vasodilators can exacerbate hypotension, potentially worsening the patient's condition. Therefore, vasodilators should be avoided in the management of anaphylaxis.
C) Corticosteroids:
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone, are used in the management of anaphylaxis to reduce inflammation and prevent late-phase allergic reactions. They are not typically used as first-line treatment during the acute phase of anaphylaxis but may be administered after initial stabilization to prevent recurrence of symptoms.
D) Bronchodilators:
Bronchodilators, such as albuterol, are used to relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While bronchospasm can occur during anaphylaxis, bronchodilators may still be used to address this symptom. However, they should be used cautiously, and their administration should not delay the administration of epinephrine, which is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Low-back pain:
Low-back pain is not a common manifestation of an allergic reaction to a blood transfusion. It may be associated with other conditions, such as musculoskeletal issues or renal complications, but it is not typically addressed by diphenhydramine administration during transfusion.
B) Fever:
While fever can occur as a manifestation of an adverse reaction to a blood transfusion, it is more commonly associated with non-allergic transfusion reactions such as transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) or bacterial contamination of the blood product. Diphenhydramine is not specifically indicated for the prevention of fever during transfusion.
C) Dyspnea:
Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, can occur as a manifestation of a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis during a blood transfusion. However, diphenhydramine alone may not be sufficient to prevent or treat severe respiratory symptoms associated with anaphylaxis. In such cases, prompt medical intervention and administration of epinephrine may be necessary. Diphenhydramine primarily targets histamine-mediated symptoms such as urticaria and itching.
D) Urticaria.
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin reaction characterized by raised, itchy welts that can occur as a result of an allergic or hypersensitivity reaction. During a blood transfusion, if the recipient's immune system reacts to foreign proteins in the transfused blood, it can lead to an allergic reaction characterized by symptoms such as urticaria, itching, flushing, and sometimes more severe reactions like anaphylaxis.
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine medication that works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during allergic reactions. By administering diphenhydramine before the blood transfusion, the nurse aims to prevent or minimize the occurrence of urticaria and other allergic symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Restlessness.
Restlessness is often one of the earliest signs of shock. It reflects the body's attempt to compensate for decreased tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery by increasing sympathetic nervous system activity. Restlessness may manifest as agitation, fidgeting, or an inability to sit still. It is an important clinical indicator that suggests impending hemodynamic instability and warrants prompt assessment and intervention.
B) Pale skin:
Pale skin is a common sign of shock, but it may not always be the earliest manifestation. Pale skin typically occurs later in the progression of shock as vasoconstriction occurs, redirecting blood flow away from the skin to vital organs in an attempt to maintain perfusion.
C) Complaints of thirst:
While complaints of thirst may indicate dehydration or fluid loss, they are not typically considered the earliest sign of shock. Thirst usually occurs after the body has already begun to experience fluid deficit and may not be apparent until shock is more advanced.
D) Complaints of nausea:
Nausea may occur in shock due to decreased perfusion to the gastrointestinal tract, but it is not usually the earliest sign. Nausea may develop as shock progresses and metabolic disturbances worsen, but it is often preceded by other symptoms such as restlessness or altered mental status.
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