HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam

Which two factors are most critical to managing an allergic reaction?

1. Severity of the reaction, speed with which the symptoms appear

2. Type of allergen, patient's age

3. Duration of the reaction, patient's previous exposure

4. Location of the reaction, availability of medication

The correct answer is: Severity of the reaction, speed with which the symptoms appear

Managing an allergic reaction hinges significantly on understanding both the severity of the reaction and the speed at which symptoms manifest. The severity denotes how intense the reaction is, which can range from mild symptoms like hives or nasal congestion to life-threatening situations such as anaphylaxis. Recognizing this severity allows for an appropriate level of urgency in response. The speed of symptom onset is equally critical. Some allergic reactions can escalate quickly, necessitating immediate action to mitigate potentially severe consequences. For instance, anaphylactic reactions often occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen, requiring prompt administration of treatment, such as epinephrine. These two factors combined inform healthcare providers and emergency responders about how to approach and treat the situation effectively, ensuring the patient's safety and well-being.