A patient with a previously unknown latex allergy suddenly develops respiratory distress and wheezing when exposed to latex materials in the surgical suite. What is the nurse's initial reaction in this situation?
A)Remove the offending products and arrange for another cart of latex-free products to be brought to the operating room.
B)Assess the patient's heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, provide oxygen and continue to monitor.
C)Administer epinephrine via autoinjector into the patient's thigh.
D)Contact the hospital administrator for action against the distribution center that provided latex products.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In this situation, the most appropriate response of the nurse is to assess the patient's heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, provide oxygen and continue to monitor. These steps are performed as an initial reaction to stabilize the patient while the nurse removes the latex products. Epinephrine may be necessary if the patient continues to develop breathing problems related to airway swelling.

A Patient with a Previously Unknown Latex Allergy Suddenly Develops