A client develops stridor, facial swelling, and hypotension after receiving an antibiotic. Which medication should the nurse prepare to administer first?
1Acetaminophen.
2Inhaled corticosteroid.
3Intramuscular epinephrine.✓ Correct answer
4Oral diphenhydramine.
Explanation
Stridor, swelling, and hypotension indicate anaphylaxis. Intramuscular epinephrine is the priority medication because it supports airway tone, bronchodilation, and circulation. Antihistamines and corticosteroids may be adjuncts but do not replace epinephrine.
Clinical Judgment Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits Anaphylaxis after antibiotic.
Memory Tip Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.
KR vs US NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.
Clinical Practice GuideFor Anaphylaxis after antibiotic, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.
CautionDo not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.
Anaphylaxis — A life-threatening systemic allergic reaction involving airway, breathing, or circulation.
Epinephrine — The first-line medication for anaphylaxis.
Stridor — A high-pitched airway sound suggesting upper airway narrowing.