A client has an allergy skin test that is positive for dust mites. The nurse provides instruction on environmental interventions the client can use to control symptoms by reducing exposure to this allergen. Which intervention would be described in this teaching?

Question

A client has an allergy skin test that is positive for dust mites.  The nurse provides instruction on environmental interventions the client can use to control symptoms by reducing exposure to this allergen.  Which intervention would be described in this teaching?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Environmental interventions can be very effective in controlling dust mite allergy symptoms. The bed is a common site of allergen exposure. Dust mite allergen exposure can be greatly reduced by washing bed linens every 1-2 weeks with hot water. High temperature (>140 F [60 C]) is needed to kill the dust mites; warm or cold water washing should not be recommended. Other environmental interventions that can help control symptoms include the use of special allergy-proof mattress and pillow covers and vacuuming the mattress on a regular basis. (Option A) Allergy shots and sublingual immunotherapy can reduce allergy symptoms by exposing the immune system to the allergen over time, reducing the immune response with subsequent exposure. However, this is not an environmental intervention. (Option B) Antihistamines can be effective in controlling allergy symptoms. However, they are not an environmental intervention. (Option C) If possible, clients with allergy or asthma should avoid having carpeting in the home. If carpeting is used, vacuuming should be done almost daily (not weekly) to remove the dust mites. Educational objective: Environmental interventions for reducing exposure to dust mite allergen in the bed include frequently washing linens with hot (>140 F [60 C]) water and using special mattress and pillow covers.

A Client Has an Allergy Skin Test That Is Positive