Author Question: What is the drug of choice the nurse would administer in the acute treatment of anaphylaxis? a. ... (Read 73 times)

waynest · **on:** Jun 27, 2018

What is the drug of choice the nurse would administer in the acute treatment of anaphylaxis?

a. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
b. Cimetidine (Tagamet)
c. Epinephrine (Adrenaline)
d. Albuterol (Ventolin)

Question 2

What is the major nursing concern for a child having an anaphylactic reaction?

a. Identifying the offending allergen
b. Ineffective breathing pattern
c. Increased cardiac output
d. Positioning to facilitate comfort

Tabitha_2016 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 27, 2018

Answer to Question 1

C
Epinephrine is the first drug of choice in the immediate treatment of anaphylaxis. Treatment must be initiated immediately because it may only be a matter of minutes before shock occurs. Although diphenhydramine and a histamine inhibitor such as cimetidine may be indicated, epinephrine is the first drug of choice in the immediate treatment of anaphylaxis. Albuterol is not usually indicated for the treatment of anaphylaxis.

Answer to Question 2

B
Laryngospasms resulting in ineffective breathing patterns are a life-threatening manifestation of anaphylaxis. The primary action is to assess airway patency, respiratory rate and effort, level of consciousness, oxygen saturation, and urine output. Determining the cause of an anaphylactic reaction is important to implement the appropriate treatment, but the primary concern is the airway. During anaphylaxis, the cardiac output is decreased. During the acute period of anaphylaxis, the nurse's primary concern is the child's breathing. Positioning for comfort is not a primary concern during a crisis.