A nurse is caring for a client with a history of multiple drug allergies who requires IV therapy. Which intervention is essential to prevent an allergic reaction in this client?
Administering the IV medications rapidly to minimize exposure.
Consulting with the healthcare provider to switch to oral medications.
Using a smaller-gauge IV catheter for medication administration.
Performing a thorough allergy assessment and using allergy alerts.
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because administering IV medications rapidly may increase the risk of an allergic reaction, especially in a client with a history of multiple drug allergies.
B) This choice is incorrect because switching to oral medications may not be appropriate or feasible for all IV medications. The nurse should consider alternative medications only after performing a thorough allergy assessment and consulting with the healthcare provider.
C) This choice is incorrect because the choice of IV catheter gauge is not directly related to preventing allergic reactions. It should be based on the medication's compatibility and viscosity.
D) This choice is correct. A thorough allergy assessment is essential in a client with a history of multiple drug allergies to identify potential allergens and prevent exposure to allergenic medications. The nurse should communicate allergies to the healthcare team and document them in the client's medical record, using allergy alerts or wristbands, to ensure safe medication administration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because administering the medication as prescribed may exacerbate the allergic reaction and is not safe without further assessment and medical guidance.
B) This choice is correct. The client's statement about being allergic to penicillin and experiencing itchiness in the throat suggests a potential allergic reaction. The nurse should withhold the medication and promptly notify the healthcare provider to assess the client's allergic response and determine an alternative course of action.
C) This choice is not the priority action. While assessing the severity of the itchiness is important, the nurse's priority is to withhold the medication and notify the healthcare provider about the potential allergic reaction.
D) This choice is incorrect because administering an antihistamine before notifying the healthcare provider may mask the symptoms of the allergic reaction and delay appropriate management.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because infiltration is not typically associated with chills, fever, and an elevated heart rate.
B) This choice is incorrect because phlebitis may cause local symptoms at the IV site but is not generally associated with systemic symptoms like fever and chills.
C) This choice is incorrect because fluid overload does not cause fever and chills but rather manifests as symptoms like dyspnea, edema, and increased blood pressure.
D) This choice is correct. The client's symptoms of chills, fever, and elevated heart rate are indicative of sepsis, a serious infection that can occur as a complication of IV therapy. Sepsis can develop if bacteria enter the bloodstream through the IV catheter and lead to a systemic inflammatory response.
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.