The nurse is administering an antihistamine to a client with nasal allergies. The nurse is aware that antihistamines have which distinct limitation?
1. They have potent cholinergic side effects.
2. They block both H-1 and H-2 receptors.
3. They are most effective when taken prophylactically.
4. They are useful only during acute attacks.
Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Antihistamines block cholinergic receptors; they have anticholinergic effects and adverse effects.
Rationale 2: Antihistamines block just H-1 receptors.
Rationale 3: Antihistamines are most effective when taken prophylactically for the symptoms of nasal allergies.
Rationale 4: Antihistamines have only limited usefulness during acute attacks.
Global Rationale: Antihistamines are most effective when taken prophylactically to prevent allergic symptoms. Their effectiveness in reversing allergic symptoms that have already manifested is limited. This is because antihistamines block the effect of histamine at its receptor sites. They do not prevent the release of histamine from mast cells. Their effectiveness may diminish with long-term use. Antihistamines block cholinergic receptors; they have anticholinergic effects and adverse effects.
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