Question

A nurse in an ER is caring for a school-age child who is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction. Which of the following is the priority action by the nurse?

(A) Administer epinephrine.
(B) Administer oxygen.
(C) Place the child in a Trendelenburg position.
(D) Monitor the child's vital signs.

Answer 1

The priority action for a nurse in an ER caring for a school-age child experiencing an anaphylactic reaction is to administer epinephrine.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority action for a nurse in an ER caring for a school-age child experiencing an anaphylactic reaction is to administer epinephrine. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that can cause a drop in blood pressure, changes in heart rate, shortness of breath, and swelling of the tongue and throat. Epinephrine is the drug of choice to counteract these effects. It constricts blood vessels to increase blood pressure, relaxes smooth muscles in the lungs to improve breathing, and reduces swelling that may block the airways. Administering oxygen, placing the child in a Trendelenburg position, and monitoring vital signs are all important actions, but administering epinephrine is the priority.