ATI RN Pharmacology Exam 2024 With NGN Related

Review ATI RN Pharmacology Exam 2024 With NGN related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a client after administering a second dose of cefazolin IV. The nurse notes the client has anxiety, hypotension. and dyspneWhich of the following medications should the nurse administer first?

  • A. Diphenhydramine
  • B. Albuterol inhaler
  • C. Epinephrine
  • D. Prednisone
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Epinephrine. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, which can present with symptoms such as anxiety, hypotension, and dyspnea following administration of a medication like cefazolin. Epinephrine acts quickly to reverse the severe allergic reaction by constricting blood vessels, increasing blood pressure, and opening up the airways to improve breathing. Diphenhydramine (A) is an antihistamine that can be used as an adjunct therapy but is not the first choice in an acute anaphylactic reaction. Albuterol inhaler (B) is used for bronchodilation in asthma, not for managing anaphylaxis. Prednisone (D) is a corticosteroid that may be used later in the treatment process to prevent a late-phase reaction but is not the initial treatment for anaphylaxis.