A woman in labor is receiving an antibiotic. She suddenly complains of trouble breathing, weakness and nausea. The nurse should recognize that these signs are usually indicative of impending:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Sudden breathing difficulty, weakness, and nausea during antibiotic administration suggest a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. This life-threatening condition involves systemic histamine release, causing airway constriction, hypotension, and gastrointestinal distress. Pulmonary egophony relates to lung sound changes, not systemic symptoms. Amniotic fluid embolism presents with cardiovascular collapse and bleeding, not primarily nausea. Bronchospasm is airway narrowing but lacks the broader symptoms here. Immediate recognition of anaphylaxis prompts epinephrine administration and airway support, critical for maternal and fetal survival in labor.