A school-age client, recently diagnosed with asthma, also has a peanut allergy. The nurse instructs the family to not only avoid peanuts but also to carefully check food label ingredients for peanut products and to make sure dishes and utensils are adequately washed prior to food preparation. The mother asks why this is specific for her child. Based on the client's history, the nurse knows that this client is at an increased risk for which complication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The instruction to avoid peanuts and check food labels is because the client has a peanut allergy, which puts them at an increased risk for anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Washing dishes and utensils can prevent cross-contamination, which may also trigger an allergic reaction. The other options, urticaria, diarrhea, and headache, could potentially occur in response to a peanut allergen, but anaphylaxis is the most severe and life-threatening complication.

A School-Age Client, Recently Diagnosed with Asthma, Also Has a Peanut