A postoperative patient is undergoing antibiotic therapy. She has never had any problems taking medications in the past. When the nurse hung the second dose of IV antibiotics, the patient suddenly developed hives and itching. The nurse recognized this was most likely a(n):
allergic reaction.
side effect.
toxic effect.
idiosyncratic reaction.
The Correct Answer is A
A. An allergic reaction is an immune response to a medication, even if the patient has taken the medication before without issues. Symptoms like hives and itching are classic signs of an allergic reaction.
B. A side effect is an expected, often mild and predictable reaction to a medication, not typically involving an immune response and severe symptoms like hives.
C. A toxic effect refers to harmful effects from a medication overdose or accumulation in the body, not sudden onset after an appropriate dose.
D. An idiosyncratic reaction is an uncommon response not related to allergies or toxic effects, usually not presenting with hives and itching.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Children do not necessarily require more frequent dosing; the dosing schedule depends on the medication and the condition being treated.
B. Children have less mature livers and kidneys, affecting drug metabolism and excretion, making them more vulnerable to medication errors and adverse effects.
C. Children do not metabolize all medications more quickly; their metabolism can vary based on age and development.
D. Children may have different rates of urine excretion, but this is not the primary reason for their vulnerability to medication errors.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While itching and hives can be signs of a mild allergic reaction, difficulty breathing and low blood pressure indicate a more severe issue. Treating a severe reaction as mild can delay necessary emergency interventions, potentially leading to life-threatening consequences.
B. The symptoms described, including difficulty breathing and hypotension, suggest a severe, not moderate, allergic reaction. This misjudgment can result in insufficient treatment and delay life-saving measures.
C. Anaphylactic reactions are characterized by symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, and low blood pressure, requiring immediate emergency treatment. Prompt recognition and intervention are critical to prevent severe complications or death.
D. Food poisoning typically presents with gastrointestinal symptoms rather than respiratory distress and hypotension. Misdiagnosing an anaphylactic reaction as food poisoning can prevent timely administration of appropriate treatments like epinephrine.
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