Question

The nurse is assessing a patient with a suspected allergic reaction. Which of the following reactions would lead the nurse to conclude that the patient is experiencing a mild allergic reaction?

a) Anaphylaxis
b) Urticaria
c) Angioedema
d) Wheezing

Answer 1

The nurse would conclude that the patient is experiencing a mild allergic reaction if they exhibit urticaria, which are hives or raised red bumps on the skin. Anaphylaxis is the most severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening, causing a drop in blood pressure, changes in heart rate, shortness of breath, and swelling of the tongue and throat. Wheezing may also be present due to mild to severe constriction of the airways. Angioedema is characterized by swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often around the face and lips.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse would conclude that the patient is experiencing a mild allergic reaction if they exhibit urticaria, which are hives or raised red bumps on the skin.

In contrast, anaphylaxis is the most severe allergic reaction characterized by a massive release of histamines that can be life-threatening, causing a drop in blood pressure, changes in heart rate, shortness of breath, and swelling of the tongue and throat. Wheezing may also be present due to mild to severe constriction of the airways. Angioedema is characterized by swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often around the face and lips.