The clinic nurse is preparing to administer an allergy immunotherapy injection to a client recently initiated on the therapy. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

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Allergy immunotherapy injections (allergy shots) trigger an increase in the body's production of specific immunoglobulins to reduce the client's allergy symptoms when exposed to specific allergens (eg, pollen, cat dander, dust mite). Small doses of the allergen(s) are injected subcutaneously on a client-specific schedule. Rarely, allergy shots may induce an immediate and potentially fatal anaphylactic reaction. The client must remain at the facility for 30 minutes after an injection so the nurse can monitor for severe systemic reactions (eg, respiratory failure, tongue and throat swelling) (Option A). (Option B) For the first few months, allergy shots are typically given every week, with a dose increase at every injection until the target maintenance dose is reached. The maintenance dose is then given every few weeks for 3-5 years. (Option C) Although rare, the client may have a mild, systemic allergic reaction (eg, hives, itching, facial swelling, mild asthma) up to 24 hours after an allergy shot. The occurrence of any systemic reaction should be reported to the health care provider as the next dose increase may need to be delayed. (Option D) It is common to have a localized reaction to an allergy shot. The nurse should reinforce teaching that some redness and swelling at the injection site is expected and not life-threatening. Educational objective: A client receiving an allergy shot is at risk for anaphylaxis immediately after the injection, so the client must remain at the facility and be monitored for 30 minutes after the injection.

The Clinic Nurse Is Preparing to Administer an Allergy Immunotherapy