Question

A client seeks treatment in the clinic for exposure to poison ivy with a rash over the right arm and hand. The nurse is aware that what toxin is found in the oils on poison ivy that is responsible for eliciting an allergic reaction?

Answer 1

The allergen in poison ivy that causes an allergic reaction is urushiol, which can result in a type IV hypersensitivity reaction known as contact dermatitis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The toxin found in the oils of poison ivy that is responsible for eliciting an allergic reaction is called urushiol. Exposure to this oily organic compound can cause symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, and blisters. This reaction is known as a type IV hypersensitivity reaction or contact dermatitis, which develops after the immune system responds to this allergen.

Poison ivy is easily recognized by its arrangement of leaves in groups of three, leading to the saying, "leaves of three, leave it be." The itchy and blistering rash developed due to poison ivy contact is not contagious, as the blisters themselves do not spread the allergen.