Page 2173 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

B. Assessment
1. History of exposure to allergens
2. Itching, tearing, and burning of eyes and skin
3. Rashes
4. Nose twitching, nasal stuffiness
C. Interventions
1. Identification of the specific allergen
2. Management of the symptoms with antihistamines,
antiinflammatory agents, and/or corticosteroids
3. Ointments, creams, wet compresses, and soothing
baths for local reactions
4. Desensitization programs may be recommended.
VII. Anaphylaxis
A. Description
1. A serious and immediate hypersensitivity reaction
that releases histamine from the damaged cells
2. Anaphylaxis can be systemic or cutaneous (localized).
B. Assessment (Fig. 62-3)
C. Interventions (see Priority Nursing Actions)

Priority Nursing Actions

Anaphylactic Reaction
1. Quickly assess respiratory status and maintain a patent airway.
2. Call the primary health care provider (PHCP) and Rapid Response Team.
3. Administer oxygen.
4. Start an intravenous (IV) line and infuse normal saline.
5. Prepare to administer diphenhydramine and epinephrine.
6. Document the event, actions taken, and the client’s response.

Reference

Ignatavicius. Workman, Rebar. 2018;364–365.

VIII. Latex Allergy
A. Description
1. Latex allergy is a hypersensitivity to latex.
2. The source of the allergic reaction is thought to be the
proteins in the natural rubber latex or the various
chemicals used in the manufacturing process of latex
gloves.

3. Symptoms of the allergy can range from mild

contact dermatitis to moderately severe symptoms of
rhinitis, conjunctivitis, urticaria, and bronchospasm to
severe life-threatening anaphylaxis.
B. Common routes of exposure (Box 62-1)

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