Serum sickness, which is a Type III Hypersensitivity Reaction, may occur in patients that have received which of the following medications?
Cephalosporin
Epinephrine
Diphenhydramine
Penicillin or Sulfonamide
The Correct Answer is D
A. Cephalosporin: Though cephalosporins can cause allergic reactions, they are less commonly associated with serum sickness compared to penicillins.
B. Epinephrine: Epinephrine treats allergic reactions and does not cause serum sickness.
C. Diphenhydramine: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine used to alleviate hypersensitivity reactions.
D. Penicillin or Sulfonamide: These medications are classic triggers for serum sickness, a delayed hypersensitivity reaction involving immune complex deposition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Stop the transfusion: The immediate priority is to halt the infusion to prevent further exposure to the offending blood product.
B. Call the blood bank to report the reaction: This is done after the transfusion is stopped and the patient is stabilized.
C. Administer oxygen: Oxygen administration may be required if the patient shows signs of respiratory distress but is not the immediate first action.
D. Call the physician: Notifying the physician is important but only after stopping the transfusion and assessing the client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Request that the surgeon prescribe a different antibiotic: Cephalexin is a cephalosporin, and there is a risk of cross-reactivity in clients with a history of anaphylaxis to penicillin.
Ask the provider to prescribe diphenhydramine as a precaution: While antihistamines may alleviate mild allergic reactions, they are not a substitute for avoiding high-risk medications in clients with anaphylaxis history.
Confirm with the client that the reaction he had was truly anaphylaxis: The client's medical record already documents anaphylaxis, which should be taken seriously without further questioning.
Administer the medication: This action disregards the client's history of anaphylaxis to a related drug class.
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