Hypersensitivity Drugs

Question 1

drug therapy options for hypersensitivity

Answer 1

• antihistamines
• immunosuppressants
• epinephrine

Question 2

epinephrine classification

Answer 2

vasopressor
bronchodilator
antihistamine
vasoconstrictor

Question 3

epinephrine indications

Answer 3

severe allergic rxn
cardiac arrest
severe asthma attacks

Question 4

epinephrine moa

Answer 4

inhibits the release of mediators from mast cells
- works on alpha (arteries) and beta (heart, lungs, arteries, skeletal muscles) receptors
- mimics CNS

Question 5

epinephrine se

Answer 5

CV: angina, arrhythmias, HTN, tachycardia
CNS: nervousness, restlessness, tremor

Question 6

epinephrine routes

Answer 6

• all except PO
• SQ preferred
• want to try the lowest possible dosage first
• doses can vary a lot so always check

Question 7

epinephrine nursing implications

Answer 7

• monitor: vital signs, status for reversal of symptoms
• correct dose is crucial bc wrong dose could be fatal, have coworker check, for SQ use TB syringe
• for home use, take exactly as directed and contact clinician directly after taking