While obtaining a health history from a patient, the nurse learns ...

[craiczarry]

While obtaining a health history from a patient, the nurse learns that the patient has a history of allergic rhinitis and multiple food allergies. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
 
  a. Encourage the patient to carry an epinephrine kit in case a type IV allergic reaction to latex develops.
  b. Advise the patient to use oil-based hand creams to decrease contact with natural proteins in latex gloves.
  c. Document the patient's allergy history and be alert for any clinical manifestations of a type I latex allergy.
  d. Recommend that the patient use vinyl gloves instead of latex gloves in preventing blood-borne pathogen contact.

Question 2

Which statement by a patient would alert the nurse to a possible immunodeficiency disorder?
 
  a. I take one baby aspirin every day to prevent stroke.
  b. I usually eat eggs or meat for at least 2 meals a day.
  c. I had my spleen removed many years ago after a car accident.
  d. I had a chest x-ray 6 months ago when I had walking pneumonia.

[macybarnes]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The patient's allergy history and occupation indicate a risk of developing a latex allergy. The nurse should be prepared to manage any symptoms that may occur. Epinephrine is not an appropriate treatment for contact dermatitis that is caused by a type IV allergic reaction to latex. Oil-based creams will increase the exposure to latex from latex gloves. Vinyl gloves are appropriate to use when exposure to body fluids is unlikely.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Splenectomy increases the risk for septicemia from bacterial infections. The patient's protein intake is good and should improve immune function. Daily aspirin use does not affect immune function. A chest x-ray does not have enough radiation to suppress immune function.