Mr. Carter has been recently started on an antibiotic, and has developed a rash and pruritis. You suspect an allergic reaction and immediately assess him for other more serious symptoms. What question would be most important to ask Mr. Carter?
"Are you having any difficulty breathing?"
"Have you noticed any blood in your stool?"
"Are you having difficulty with your hearing?"
"Do you have a headache?”
The Correct Answer is A
A. "Are you having any difficulty breathing?":
Difficulty breathing is a critical symptom that may indicate a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. It is essential to assess for difficulty breathing immediately as it requires urgent intervention to ensure the patient's airway is clear and to administer appropriate treatment.
B. "Have you noticed any blood in your stool?":
While blood in the stool could indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, it is not typically associated with allergic reactions to antibiotics. This symptom is more commonly associated with other conditions such as gastrointestinal ulcers, infections, or inflammatory bowel disease. While important to assess, it is not as immediately concerning as difficulty breathing in the context of a suspected allergic reaction.
C. "Are you having difficulty with your hearing?":
Difficulty with hearing is not a common symptom of allergic reactions to antibiotics. It may be associated with other conditions such as ear infections or ototoxicity from certain medications. While it is important to assess any changes in hearing, it is not typically an immediate concern in the context of a suspected allergic reaction.
D. "Do you have a headache?":
Headaches are a common symptom that can occur for various reasons, including stress, tension, dehydration, or as a side effect of medications. While headaches can sometimes occur as a side effect of certain drugs, they are not typically associated with severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis. Therefore, while it is important to assess for headaches, it is not as immediately concerning as difficulty breathing in the context of a suspected allergic reaction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Headaches:
Headaches are a common symptom that can occur for various reasons, including stress, tension, dehydration, or as a side effect of medications. While headaches can sometimes occur as a side effect of certain drugs, they are not specific indicators of a drug allergy. Allergic reactions to medications typically involve other symptoms such as rash, hives, itching, swelling, or respiratory symptoms.
B. Hives or shortness of breath:
Hives (urticaria) are raised, red, itchy welts on the skin that can occur as an allergic reaction to medications. They are a common manifestation of drug allergies. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) can occur as part of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by a rapid onset of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or tongue, rapid heart rate, and low blood pressure. Both hives and shortness of breath are significant signs of a potential drug allergy and require immediate attention.
C. Diarrhea:
Diarrhea can occur as a side effect of medications, including antibiotics. However, it is not typically a specific indicator of a drug allergy. Diarrhea is more commonly associated with gastrointestinal disturbances or as a reaction to changes in gut flora due to antibiotic use.
D. Nausea:
Nausea is a common side effect of many medications, including antibiotics. While it can be bothersome, nausea alone is not a specific indicator of a drug allergy. Allergic reactions to medications typically involve other symptoms such as rash, hives, itching, swelling, or respiratory symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Echinacea:
Echinacea is an herbal supplement commonly used to support the immune system and reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms. However, there is limited evidence to support its efficacy in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). While it may have some immune-boosting properties, it is not typically recommended specifically for UTI prevention.
B. Saw palmetto:
Saw palmetto is an herbal supplement often used for prostate health and to alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men. It is not typically used for preventing urinary tract infections in either men or women.
C. Black cohosh:
Black cohosh is an herbal supplement commonly used by women to alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings. It is not typically used for preventing urinary tract infections.
D. Cranberry juice:
Cranberry juice and cranberry supplements have long been studied for their potential role in preventing urinary tract infections, particularly in women. Cranberry contains compounds that may prevent bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. While the evidence supporting cranberry's effectiveness in preventing UTIs is mixed, some studies suggest that it may be beneficial, especially in individuals prone to recurrent UTIs.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today