ATI LPN Pharm Quiz Final Related

Review ATI LPN Pharm Quiz Final related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing anaphylaxis. The family asks the nurse why the patient is having difficulty breathing. The nurse responds based on what knowledge?

  • A. Bronchoconstriction in response to the allergen.
  • B. Compensation for a rapid fall in blood pressure.
  • C. Reflex tachycardia.
  • D. Seizures are likely to occur.
  • G. A
Correct Answer: Bronchoconstriction from allergens causes breathing difficulty in anaphylaxis. Hypotension, tachycardia, and seizures are secondary or unrelated.

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bronchoconstriction in response to the allergen. During anaphylaxis, the body releases histamine causing bronchoconstriction, leading to difficulty breathing. This is a direct response to the allergen and can lead to respiratory distress. Choice B, compensation for a rapid fall in blood pressure, is incorrect as hypotension is a secondary effect of anaphylaxis. Choice C, reflex tachycardia, is also incorrect as tachycardia is a compensatory response to hypotension, not the cause of difficulty breathing. Choice D, seizures are likely to occur, is incorrect as seizures are not a common manifestation of anaphylaxis. Therefore, the correct answer is A as it directly relates to the pathophysiology of anaphylaxis.