Practice Question
A client treated for angioedema in the ER is now stable. Which action is most important for the nurse?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Monitor for at least 4-6 hours for recurrence
Rationale:
👄Angioedema is sudden swelling of the skin, lips, tongue, or airway, often due to an allergic reaction or ACE inhibitor use.
👄Even after symptoms improve, there is a significant risk of recurrence, sometimes rapidly and without warning.
👄The greatest danger is airway obstruction, which can progress to respiratory arrest if not caught early.
👄Continuous monitoring in the ER or observation unit for 4–6 hours allows immediate intervention (e.g., epinephrine, airway support) if swelling returns.
👄Oral diphenhydramine and resuming diet may be part of follow-up care, but they are not as urgent as ensuring airway safety.
👄Discharging too soon places the client at risk of a delayed, possibly fatal reaction.
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This question is from Quiz 1 Fall 2025 Monday PM which contains 41 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN ATI MedSurg
- Answer Choices: 4