Final answer:
The nurse's priority action when a patient is experiencing anaphylactic shock is to administer epinephrine if available, which is the drug of choice to counteract the severe allergic reaction, followed by notifying the healthcare provider.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient is experiencing an anaphylactic shock while receiving IV medications, the nurse's priority action is to administer epinephrine immediately if available. Anaphylactic shock is a potentially fatal reaction that can occur within minutes, characterized by symptoms such as a drop in blood pressure, respiratory distress, and swelling of the throat. Epinephrine is used to rapidly counteract these effects by raising blood pressure, relaxing bronchial smooth muscle, and reducing swelling.
After administering epinephrine, it is important to notify the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management of the patient. Additional follow-up treatment may include antihistamines and corticosteroids to prevent late-phase reactions.