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NCLEX Question of the Day
Review the question, check the correct answer, and read the rationale before tomorrow's prompt arrives.
A nurse is administering a second dose of ampicillin to a patient. The patient begins to exhibit signs of an allergic reaction with difficulty breathing and hives. What is the nurse’s priority action?
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Correct answer Stop the administration of ampicillin and call for emergency assistance.
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Administer an antihistamine and continue with ampicillin.
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Leave to inform the healthcare provider immediately, leaving the patient alone.
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Continue administering ampicillin and monitor for further reactions.
Rationale
If a patient exhibits signs of an allergic reaction, especially with respiratory distress, it is critical to stop the administration of the offending medication (ampicillin in this case) immediately and call for emergency assistance. Continuing the administration could worsen the allergic reaction, and leaving the patient alone or merely administering an antihistamine without addressing the emergency could put the patient's life at risk.
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