Before starting antimicrobial therapy, the nurse assesses a patient for possible drug allergy. Which of the following complaints should alert the nurse to a drug allergy?
Headaches
Hives or shortness of breath
Diarrhea
Nausea
The Correct Answer is B
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Chocolate:
Chocolate contains tyramine, a substance that can interact with certain medications like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) to increase blood pressure. While isoniazid itself does not directly interact with tyramine, it is often recommended to avoid tyramine-rich foods to prevent potential interactions with other medications or to minimize potential risks. Therefore, clients taking isoniazid are advised to avoid consuming chocolate to reduce the risk of adverse effects.
B. Aged cheese:
Aged cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, and blue cheeses, are high in tyramine. Tyramine levels increase as cheeses age, and consuming aged cheeses can lead to tyramine buildup in the body, potentially causing hypertensive crisis when combined with certain medications like MAOIs. While isoniazid is not an MAOI, the cautionary advice to avoid tyramine-rich foods is often extended to individuals taking isoniazid to minimize potential risks.
C. Bananas:
Bananas contain tyramine, although in lower amounts compared to some other foods. However, it is still advisable for individuals taking isoniazid to avoid consuming bananas and other tyramine-rich foods to reduce the risk of potential interactions or adverse effects.
D. Red meat:
Red meat is not typically high in tyramine compared to other foods like aged cheeses, certain processed meats, and fermented foods. While some sources suggest limiting consumption of aged or fermented meats, fresh red meat is generally considered safe to consume while taking isoniazid.
E. White wine:
While red wine is more commonly associated with tyramine content, white wine can also contain tyramine and other biogenic amines. Like other tyramine-rich foods, white wine consumption should be limited or avoided by individuals taking isoniazid to minimize the risk of tyramine-related interactions or adverse effects.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. BP 98/62:
A blood pressure of 98/62 mmHg is within the normal range for an adult, although it's slightly lower than the average blood pressure. While monitoring blood pressure is important, this reading doesn't indicate a critical condition and doesn't require immediate intervention.
B. Urticaria:
Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin rash characterized by raised, itchy welts. While it can be uncomfortable and may indicate an allergic reaction, it's not immediately life-threatening. However, it does warrant attention and further assessment.
C. Wheezing:
Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs during breathing and can indicate airway obstruction, such as in an allergic reaction or asthma exacerbation. Wheezing can be a sign of a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, which requires immediate intervention to ensure the patient's airway remains open and to administer appropriate treatment.
D. Pulse rate 104/min:
A pulse rate of 104 beats per minute (bpm) is slightly elevated but within the normal range for an adult. While it's important to monitor heart rate, this finding alone doesn't indicate an immediate threat to the patient's life.
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