Which of the following best describes anaphylaxis?
A chronic autoimmune disorder that causes progressive damage to the respiratory lining
A localized inflammatory response resulting in a mild skin rash and pruritus
A severe, systemic reaction characterized by airway obstruction and cardiovascular shock
A non-allergic food intolerance that leads to temporary gastrointestinal distress
The Correct Answer is C
A. A chronic autoimmune disorder affecting the respiratory lining, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis, is not the same as anaphylaxis. These conditions involve long-term inflammation but are not acute, systemic allergic reactions.
B. A mild, localized allergic response, such as hives or itching (pruritus), involves limited areas of the body and does not threaten life. Anaphylaxis, in contrast, is systemic and life-threatening.
C. Anaphylaxis is a severe, systemic allergic reaction that can rapidly affect multiple organ systems. It often includes symptoms such as airway swelling, bronchoconstriction, hypotension, rapid pulse, dizziness, and even cardiovascular shock. Without prompt treatment, typically with intramuscular epinephrine, anaphylaxis can be fatal. The reaction is usually triggered by allergens such as foods, insect stings, medications, or latex.
D. Non-allergic food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, can cause gastrointestinal discomfort like bloating, cramping, or diarrhea, but they do not involve systemic immune activation, airway obstruction, or cardiovascular collapse.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The gallbladder does not produce bile. Its primary function is to store and concentrate bile that the liver produces, releasing it into the small intestine through the common bile duct when fat-containing food enters the duodenum. While the gallbladder is essential for regulating bile flow, it does not synthesize it.
B. The liver is the accessory organ responsible for producing bile, a yellow-green fluid composed of bile salts, cholesterol, phospholipids, and waste products like bilirubin. Bile plays a critical role in emulsifying fats, breaking them into smaller droplets so pancreatic lipase can effectively digest them. Additionally, bile aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and facilitates the excretion of certain waste products, such as excess cholesterol and bilirubin, helping maintain metabolic balance. Bile is continuously produced by the liver and transported via the hepatic ducts to either the gallbladder for storage or directly to the duodenum for immediate digestive use.
C. The spleen is primarily involved in filtering the blood, recycling red blood cells, and supporting immune function. It has no role in bile production or fat digestion.
D. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes (such as amylase, lipase, and proteases) and hormones (including insulin and glucagon) but does not produce bile. It contributes to digestion by releasing enzymes into the small intestine, complementing bile’s function in fat digestion.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A peanut allergy is an immune-mediated response in which the body identifies peanut proteins as harmful, triggering a severe allergic reaction. This is a true food allergy, not a food intolerance.
B. Lactose intolerance is a food intolerance, not an allergy. It occurs when the body lacks sufficient lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. This leads to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain after consuming dairy, but it does not involve the immune system.
C. A bee sting reaction is an example of an allergy caused by the immune system responding to bee venom. It is not related to food intolerance.
D. A shellfish allergy is an immune-mediated reaction to proteins in shellfish, which can cause severe or life-threatening symptoms. This is a true allergy, not a food intolerance.
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