Reporting Wheezing During a New IV Antibiotic

Foundations of Practice & Clinical Judgment · Question from the ATI PN Fundamentals 2023 Proctored Exam study set

Correct answer: Severe wheezing

Why this is the answer

Wheezing indicates bronchospasm and possible airway compromise, a sign of an acute allergic or anaphylactic reaction requiring immediate intervention.

The bigger concept

Any new respiratory finding during a first-dose medication is treated as a possible hypersensitivity reaction until proven otherwise. Wheezing means bronchospasm, and bronchospasm can progress to airway obstruction within minutes. Stop the infusion, keep the IV access open with saline, stay with the client, and get the RN and provider immediately. Mild expected effects like nausea or a metallic taste do not carry the same urgency.

Related Foundations of Practice & Clinical Judgment practice questions

• Recognizing Anaphylaxis After a New Antibiotic
• Tasks a Nurse Can Assign to Assistive Personnel
• First Action for a Client With Mild Hypothermia
• Penicillin Allergy and an Amoxicillin Order
• UTI Findings the PN Should Report to the Provider

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