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Hypersensitivity and Autoimmunity

Terms in this set (29)

Mild Hypersensitivity Reaction
itchy, watery eyes, sneezing
Life Threatening Hypersensitivity Reaction
Anaphylaxis, allergic asthma, bronchoconstriction, circulatory collapse
Which hypersensitivity is the most common?
Atopic allergy (Type 1)
-Release of histamine
-Labs: IgE, CBC
Anaphylaxis
Medical Emergency
-occurs within minutes
-blood vessel dilation
-decreased cardiac output
-bronchoconstriction
What is a major factor related to a fatal outcome from anaphylaxis?
the delay in administration of epinephrine
Angioedema
IgE release of inflammatory proteins
-lips, face, tongue, larynx and neck swell
Intestinal angioedema
severe abdominal pain
n/v
Angioedema Assessment
facial edema, hives
Angioedema Interventions
Give epi, assess gas exchange and maintain airway, monitor pulse ox
IV med allergic reaction
stop infusion immediately, do not discontinue access, new IV tubing and initiate NSS
First line meds for angioedema
epinephrine
Second line meds for angioedema
benadryl, solumedrol IV, albuterol
What does epinephrine do?
constricts blood vessels, improving cardiac output and dilates bronchioles
How often can you give epi?
repeat every 5-15 minutes
Health promotion: allergies
carry anaphylaxis kit or epipen
Allergic Rhinosinusitis (Hay fever)
triggered by reaction to airborne allergens
Allergic Rhinosinusitis management
symptom relief, patient education, drug therapy, immunotherapy
Desensitization
A special treatment of allergic responses that administers increasingly lg doses of the offending allergen to gradually develop immunity
Allergy Injections
scratch test
If someone is having an allergic reaction, immediately assess:
respiratory status and airway
Management of Autoimmune disease is based on
organ or tissues affected
ex. diabetes is managed with insulin
General Immunosupressive Therapy
-corticosteroids
-cytotoxic drugs
-suppression of WBC in bone marrow
-administered in low doses
Sjorgren's syndrome
often appears with other autoimmune
-dry eyes, dry mucous membranes, xerostomia, vaginal dryness
A nurse works in an allergy clinic. What task performed by the nurse takes priority?

a. Checking emergency equipment each morning
b. Ensuring informed consent is obtained as needed
c. Providing educational materials in several languages
d. Teaching clients how to manage their allergies
A.

All actions are appropriate for this nurse; however, client safety is the priority
A client is in the preoperative holding area prior to surgery. The nurse notes that the client has allergies to avocados and strawberries. What action by the nurse is best?

a. Assess that the client has been NPO as directed.
b. Communicate this information with dietary staff.
c. Document the information in the clients chart.
d. Ensure the information is relayed to the surgical team.
D.

A client with allergies to avocados, strawberries, bananas, or nuts has a higher risk of latex allergy. The nurse should ensure that the surgical staff is aware of this so they can provide a latex-free environment.
A client calls the clinic to report exposure to poison ivy and an itchy rash that is not helped with over-the- counter antihistamines. What response by the nurse is most appropriate?

a. Antihistamines do not help poison ivy.
b. There are different antihistamines to try.
c. You should be seen in the clinic right away.
d. You will need to take some IV steroids.
A

Since histamine is not the mediator of a type IV reaction such as with poison ivy, antihistamines will not provide relief.
A client with Sjgrens syndrome reports dry skin, eyes, mouth, and vagina. What nonpharmacologic comfort measure does the nurse suggest?

a. Frequent eyedrops
b. Home humidifier
c. Strong moisturizer
d. Tear duct plugs
B

A humidifier will help relieve many of the clients Sjgrens syndrome symptoms.
A nurse has educated a client on an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen). What statement by the client indicates additional instruction is needed?

a. I dont need to go to the hospital after using it.
b. I must carry two EpiPens with me at all times.
c. I will write the expiration date on my calendar.
d. This can be injected right through my clothes.
A

Clients should be instructed to call 911 and go to the hospital for monitoring after using the EpiPen.
A client having severe allergy symptoms has received several doses of IV antihistamines. What action by the nurse is most important?

a. Assess the clients bedside glucose reading.
b. Instruct the client not to get up without help.
c. Monitor the client frequently for tachycardia.
d. Record the clients intake, output, and weight.
B

Antihistamines can cause drowsiness, so for the clients safety, he or she should be instructed to call for assistance prior to trying to get up.
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