Pathophysiology Exam 1 Quizlet Related

Review Pathophysiology Exam 1 Quizlet related questions and content

When a patient asks the nurse what hypersensitivity is, how should the nurse respond? Hypersensitivity is best defined as:

  • A. A reduced immune response found in most pathologic states
  • B. A normal immune response to an infectious agent
  • C. An excessive or inappropriate response of the immune system to a sensitizing antigen
  • D. Antigenic desensitization
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Hypersensitivity is correctly defined as an excessive or inappropriate response of the immune system to a sensitizing antigen. This response leads to tissue damage or other clinical manifestations. Choice A is incorrect as hypersensitivity involves an exaggerated, not a reduced, immune response. Choice B is incorrect because hypersensitivity is not a normal immune response to an infectious agent but rather an exaggerated one. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to desensitization, which is the opposite of hypersensitivity.