Just as you are arriving at the emergency department bay, your patient, on whom you started an IV at the scene, complains of sudden chills, back pain, and nausea. The patient appears flushed, and his skin is hot and moist to the touch. Which of the following most likely accounts for your patient's presentation?
A) Pulmonary thromboembolism
B) Pyrogenic reaction
C) Circulatory overload
D) Anaphylaxis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sudden onset of chills, back pain, nausea, flushing, and hot and moist skin in a patient who recently received an IV is suggestive of a pyrogenic reaction, which is an adverse reaction to contaminated or pyrogenic substances in the IV fluid. Pulmonary thromboembolism, circulatory overload, and anaphylaxis may also cause similar symptoms, but they are less likely in this case based on the patient's presentation and history.

Just as You Are Arriving at the Emergency Department Bay