A patient is brought to the emergency department with severe wheezing, dyspnea, and peripheral edema. The nurse assesses a respiratory rate of 30 breaths per minute, a heart rate of 88 beats per minute, and a blood pressure of 88/54 mm Hg. Which medication does the nurse expect to be given initially?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is presenting with symptoms of severe respiratory distress and hypotension, which may indicate anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis and should be given immediately to improve respiratory symptoms and increase blood pressure. Albuterol may also be given to improve bronchodilation, but it is not the initial treatment for anaphylaxis. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can be given to relieve itching and hives, but it is not the initial treatment for anaphylaxis. Dopamine may be used to increase blood pressure, but it is not the initial treatment for anaphylaxis.

A Patient Is Brought to the Emergency Department with Severe