A patient comes into the emergency department with itching, swelling, and slight shortness of breath after being stung by a bee. The nurse realizes this patient is experiencing which of the following types of hypersensitivity reactions?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of itching, swelling, and shortness of breath after a bee sting suggest a type I hypersensitivity reaction, which is IgE-mediated. Type II hypersensitivity reactions involve the destruction of cells, type III reactions involve immune complex deposition and inflammation, and type IV reactions are delayed and involve T cell-mediated inflammation.

A Patient Comes into the Emergency Department with Itching, Swelling