The nurse is providing discharge instructions to the family of a child who experienced an anaphylactic reaction. Which parental statements indicate accurate understanding of the action that histamine plays during this type of reaction? Select all that apply.
A) "Histamine releases IgE antibodies, which help to stop the reaction."
B) "Histamine causes smooth muscle contraction, which causes the wheezing."
C) "Histamine causes increased capillary permeability, which is what causes difficulty breathing."
D) "Histamine causes vasoconstriction leading to respiratory issues."
E) "Histamine causes the destruction of red blood cells, which is why we administer the EpiPen."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Histamine causes smooth muscle contraction, which can lead to bronchoconstriction and wheezing. It also causes increased capillary permeability, which can lead to edema in the airways and difficulty breathing. Histamine does not release IgE antibodies or cause the destruction of red blood cells. It can cause vasodilation, not vasoconstriction, which can lead to hypotension and cardiovascular collapse.

The Nurse Is Providing Discharge Instructions to the Family of a Child