Question 1

Which action(s)is/are true of antihistamines? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

A,B,C,D

Question 2

Which is a serious adverse effect of decongestants?

Accepted Answer

Decongestants can cause vasoconstriction, leading to an increase in blood pressure and potentially causing hypertension as a serious adverse effect. Hypotension, orbital edema, and facial flushing are possible adverse effects of decongestants but are typically less serious.

Question 3

The nurse is teaching a patient about the administration of antihistamines.The nurse will instruct the patient to take the medication at what time of day?

Accepted Answer

Antihistamines work best when taken 45 minutes before exposure to an allergen. Taking them after contact with an allergen or when symptoms have already begun may be less effective. PRN dosing is appropriate for some medications, but the question specifically asks about antihistamines.

Question 4

What process in the antigen-antibody reaction causes the symptoms of allergies?

Accepted Answer

In the antigen-antibody reaction during an allergic reaction, the bound antibodies trigger the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils. Histamine causes the symptoms of allergies such as itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.

Question 5

Which patient(s)would be able to take an alpha-adrenergic decongestant safely? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

Alpha-adrenergic decongestants may increase heart rate and blood pressure, so patients with a history of heart disease (C) should avoid them. Additionally, patients with glaucoma (D) should avoid these drugs as they can increase intraocular pressure. Patients with prostatic hypertrophy (E) should use caution when taking alpha-adrenergic decongestants as they may cause urinary retention. However, younger patients without pre-existing medical conditions, such as the 24-year-old woman with allergic rhinitis (A) and 18-year-old man with cold symptoms (B), may be able to take these medications safely.

Question 6

The nurse is providing counseling to a patient on cromolyn sodium (Nasalcrom)nasal spray.Information relayed to the patient will include that: (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

The patient should be instructed to blow their nose before using Nasalcrom to ensure the medication reaches the nasal mucosa. The maximum daily dosage of Nasalcrom is six sprays in each nostril, as exceeding this amount can lead to adverse effects. The other options provided are incorrect. Cromolyn sodium must be taken before exposure to the stimulus, therapeutic effects are not immediate and inhalation does not cause coughing.

Question 7

Which principle(s)will the nurse include in a teaching plan for antihistamine therapy? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

Antihistamines can cause constipation, so increasing dietary fiber and fluids is recommended. They should not be taken with other medications without physician approval due to potential interactions. Blurred vision is a common side effect of antihistamines.

Question 8

A patient at sports camp is complaining of itchy and watery eyes,coughing,and sneezing when outdoors.The patient's chart states that he has an allergy to grasses.Which medication will the nurse administer?

Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms indicate an allergic reaction, specifically to grasses. An antihistamine medication is the best choice to alleviate the symptoms by blocking the release of histamines that cause itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. Antitussives and expectorants are used to treat coughs, while decongestants relieve nasal congestion.

Question 9

What initiates the sneeze reflex?

Accepted Answer

The sneeze reflex is initiated by the irritation of the nasal mucosa by foreign particulate matter, such as dust or pollen. This irritant stimulates the trigeminal nerve, which sends a signal to the brainstem to initiate the sneeze reflex.

Question 10

The nurse is preparing education for a patient who has developed rebound nasal congestion resulting from use of topical decongestants.What information will the nurse include? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

The answer of The nurse is preparing education for a...

Question 11

What can result if a patient overuses topical decongestants?

Accepted Answer

Overuse of topical decongestants can cause rebound congestion, known as secondary congestion, leading to dependence on the medication and decreased effectiveness over time. This can create a vicious cycle where the patient feels they need more and more of the medication to achieve the same relief, which can cause further damage to the nasal tissue. Hypertensive crisis and permanent olfactory damage are rare side effects of topical decongestants and typically only occur in cases of extreme overuse. Allergic reactions are also possible, but less common than rebound congestion.

Question 12

A college student is being seen at an outpatient clinic with reports of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis.The healthcare provider orders fexofenadine.When providing information regarding this medication,the nurse will include statements indicating that:

Accepted Answer

Fexofenadine is known to be one of the least sedating antihistamines. Option B is incorrect as tolerance may develop with prolonged use of this medication. Option C is also incorrect as antihistamines are more effective if taken before histamine is released, not after. Option D is incorrect as fexofenadine works by blocking the action of histamine, but does not prevent its release.

Question 13

Which topically active aerosol steroids are highly effective for reducing sneezing,nasal itching,stuffiness,and rhinorrhea? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

Beclomethasone, Fluticasone, Flunisolide, and Budesonide are all topically active aerosol steroids that are highly effective for reducing sneezing, nasal itching, stuffiness, and rhinorrhea. Prednisone is not a topically active aerosol steroid and is commonly used in oral form for severe allergic reactions.

Question 14

The clinic nurse is assessing a patient being seen for a severe allergic reaction to environmental allergens.Which symptom should the nurse prioritize as the most important?

Accepted Answer

Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is the most serious symptom of a severe allergic reaction and requires immediate attention. It could lead to respiratory failure if not treated promptly. Hypotension and urticaria are also concerning symptoms but not as immediately life-threatening as dyspnea. Rhinorrhea, or a runny nose, is a common symptom of allergies but does not typically indicate a severe reaction.

Question 15

Which medication may be given to patients with allergic seasonal rhinitis who do not respond to antihistamines and sympathomimetics?

Accepted Answer

Corticosteroids are effective in reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, which is often the underlying cause of seasonal rhinitis symptoms. Leukotriene modifiers may also be used in cases where corticosteroids are not sufficient, but they are not the first-line treatment option. Mineralocorticoids and cortisol are not indicated for the treatment of seasonal rhinitis.

Question 16

What occurs in the nasal structures when cholinergic fibers are stimulated?

Accepted Answer

When cholinergic fibers are stimulated, they activate the glandular cells in the nasal passages, leading to an increased production of serous and mucous secretions. This helps to moisten and lubricate the nasal tissues, and may also help to trap and remove foreign particles and infectious agents from the air. Dryness or bleeding in the nasal passages is not a typical response to cholinergic stimulation, while enhanced olfactory perception is not directly related to glandular activity in the nose.

Question 17

When does allergic rhinitis occur? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

Allergic rhinitis occurs when the nasal mucosa becomes inflamed due to exposure to allergens, which leads to the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause symptoms.

Question 18

Which instruction will the nurse include when teaching a patient with seasonal rhinitis and blocked nasal passages about intranasal corticosteroid therapy?

Accepted Answer

Using a decongestant prior to administration can help clear the nasal passages, allowing the intranasal corticosteroid to be more effective.

Quiz 29: Drugs Used to Treat Upper Respiratory Disease

Which action(s) is/are true of antihistamines? (Select all that apply.)