The nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing anaphylaxis.
The family asks the nurse why the patient is having difficulty breathing. The nurse responds based on what knowledge?

Choice A rationale
The patient experiencing anaphylaxis is having difficulty breathing due to bronchoconstriction in response to the allergen. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause bronchoconstriction, leading to difficulty in breathing. This is a direct response to the allergen, causing the airways to narrow and making it hard for the patient to breathe.

Choice B rationale
While a rapid fall in blood pressure, also known as hypotension, can occur during anaphylaxis, it does not directly cause difficulty in breathing. Hypotension in anaphylaxis is due to the release of histamines which cause vasodilation and increased capillary permeability, leading to fluid leakage from the capillaries into the tissues, reducing the volume of blood returning to the heart.
Choice C rationale
Reflex tachycardia is a compensatory response by the body to a decrease in blood pressure, not a direct cause of difficulty in breathing. It is the body’s attempt to maintain adequate perfusion by increasing the heart rate.
Choice D rationale
Seizures are not a typical symptom of anaphylaxis. While severe anaphylaxis can lead to a loss of consciousness, it does not cause seizures.

Choice A rationale
While it’s true that poor circulation can affect drug distribution in older adults, this is not the primary reason antianxiety medications are used cautiously in this population.
Choice B rationale
While the liver’s ability to metabolize drugs can decrease with age, leading to increased drug levels in the body, this is not the primary reason antianxiety medications are used cautiously in older adults.
Choice C rationale
Decreased acid production can affect the absorption of certain drugs, but this is not the primary reason antianxiety medications are used cautiously in older adults.

Choice D rationale
Reduced elimination of drugs is a key concern in older adults. This can lead to a buildup of drugs in the body, increasing the risk of side effects. This is particularly true for antianxiety medications, which can cause side effects such as dizziness, confusion, and falls.