Final answer:
The NCI toxicity grading scale would classify severe respiratory distress requiring intubation during a brentuximab infusion as a Grade 4 toxicity. Anaphylactic shock is treated with epinephrine, and immediate stopping of the infusion and medical intervention is critical.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient experiencing severe respiratory distress and requiring intubation after receiving an initial brentuximab infusion would likely be experiencing an anaphylactic shock. This is a severe systemic allergic reaction that is life-threatening and can cause symptoms such as a drop in blood pressure, shortness of breath, and swelling of the tongue and throat, leading to suffocation without prompt treatment. The NCI toxicity grading scale would categorize this type of reaction as a Grade 4 toxicity, which is the highest grade and indicates severe, life-threatening symptoms requiring urgent intervention.
Treatment for anaphylactic shock typically involves the administration of epinephrine, which helps to control the immune response by constricting blood vessels, increasing blood pressure, reducing wheezing, improving breathing, and decreasing swelling. In instances where the causative agent is known, such as a medication infusion, stopping the infusion and providing emergency medical care is crucial.