A nurse is assisting with the care of a client.
- At 1600, the nurse administered an antibiotic as prescribed.
- At 1630, the nurse noted that the client’s bilateral breath sounds were clear and present throughout.
- The client reports itching on the chest and has urticaria over the chest and trunk.
- The client states they are having difficulty swallowing and feel as if there is a lump in their throat.
- The nurse hears bilateral breath sounds with scattered wheezing throughout.
What should the nurse do next?
Stop the antibiotic infusion immediately and notify the healthcare provider.
Apply a cool compress to the itchy areas and monitor for further reactions.
Administer diphenhydramine (Benadryl) as a first-line treatment.
Assess the client’s throat for swelling and encourage them to drink water.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Stop the antibiotic infusion immediately and notify the healthcare provider.
- Explanation: This is the correct first action. The client is showing signs of a severe allergic reaction, possibly anaphylaxis. Stopping the antibiotic prevents further exposure to the allergen, and notifying the provider ensures prompt medical intervention.
B. Apply a cool compress to the itchy areas and monitor for further reactions.
- Explanation: While a cool compress may help with itching, it does not address the serious symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty swallowing and wheezing. Immediate action is required beyond just symptom management.
C. Administer diphenhydramine (Benadryl) as a first-line treatment.
- Explanation: While antihistamines like diphenhydramine are helpful in treating mild allergic reactions, this case suggests anaphylaxis, which requires epinephrine as the first-line treatment. Administering diphenhydramine alone is not sufficient for airway compromise.
D. Assess the client’s throat for swelling and encourage them to drink water.
- Explanation: Assessing for throat swelling is important, but encouraging oral intake is not appropriate when a client has difficulty swallowing, as this could worsen airway obstruction. The priority is stopping the medication and seeking emergency intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A DNR prescription does not mean that the patient will only receive pain medication for their treatments. A DNR order simply means that if the patient’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing, medical staff will not attempt resuscitation3.
Choice B rationale
A DNR prescription does not necessarily limit a patient’s current treatment regimen. It only specifies that CPR will not be performed in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. Other treatments can still be provided based on the patient’s wishes and the medical team’s recommendations3.
Choice C rationale
A DNR prescription allows a patient to continue with their current treatment regimen. The DNR order only comes into effect if the patient’s heart stops or they stop breathing3.
Choice D rationale
While a DNR prescription may limit the ability to receive invasive procedures in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, it does not limit other forms of treatment. The patient can still receive treatments that align with their goals of care3.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hepatitis C is not typically transmitted through saliva. It is a bloodborne virus, meaning it is most commonly transmitted through exposure to infected blood.
Choice B rationale
Hepatitis C is most commonly transmitted through exposure to infected blood. This can occur through sharing drug injection equipment, receiving a tattoo or piercing at a place with poor infection control, and other ways. Coming into contact with infected blood, such as from a used needle, is a common way the virus is transmitted.
Choice C rationale
Hepatitis C is not typically transmitted through consuming contaminated food or water. It is a bloodborne virus.
Choice D rationale
While it is possible to contract Hepatitis C by sharing personal items like toothbrushes or razors with an infected person, this is less common. The virus is most commonly transmitted through exposure to infected blood.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
