The nurse is providing discharge education for a patient who experienced an anaphylactic reaction to a bee sting To ensure that the patient receives prompt, appropriate medical care in the event of another bee sting, the nurse encourages which actions? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply.

Question

1. Carry oral antihistamines at all times.
2. Be aware of how quickly the symptoms occur and exacerbate.
3. Always have quick access to an epinephrine pen.
4. Wear a medical alert bracelet that identifies allergy to bee venom.
5. Be able to identify early symptoms of allergic reaction.

Answer 1

2,3,4,5
Rationale 1: Oral medications would not work rapidly enough in case of another episode of anaphylaxis.
Rationale 2: Being aware of symptoms and the speed with which anaphylactic shock can develop will be vital to the patient's receiving prompt, appropriate medical care.
Rationale 3: Carrying a self-administered epinephrine kit to use in the event of an anaphylactic reaction is essential.
Rationale 4: The nurse can promote patient health and safety by encouraging patients with a history of anaphylactic reactions to wear a medical alert bracelet or other form of medical identification tag that identifies allergies.
Rationale 5: The patient who can self-assess for symptoms of allergic reaction will be able to initiate treatment earlier.