Chapter 20- Immunologic Emergencies

Question 1

Immunology

Answer 1

The study of the body’s immune system, and the five categories of stimuli that may provoke allergic reactions— in particular, insect bites and stings

Question 2

Immune system

Answer 2

Protects the human body from substances and organisms that are foreign to the body.

Question 3

Allergic reaction

Answer 3

The body’s exaggerated immune response to an internal or surface agent.

Question 4

Immune response

Answer 4

The body’s response to a substance perceived by the body as foreign

Question 5

Histamines

Answer 5

Chemical substances released by the immune system in allergic reactions that are responsible for many of the symptoms of anaphylaxis such as vasodilation.

Question 6

Leukotrienes

Answer 6

Chemical substances that contribute to anaphylaxis; released by the immune system in allergic reactions.

Question 7

Allergen

Answer 7

Substance that cause an allergic reaction

Question 8

Urticaria

Answer 8

Hives

Question 9

Angioedema

Answer 9

Localized swelling

Question 10

The most common allergens fall into one of these categories:

Answer 10

Food
Medication
Plants
Chemicals
Insect bites and stings

Question 11

The act of injecting venom is called

Answer 11

Envenomation

Question 12

Toxin

Answer 12

Poison

Question 13

Wheal

Answer 13

A raised, swollen, well-defined area on the skin

Question 14

In more severe anaphylactic cases, patients may experience:

Answer 14

• bronchospasm and wheezing
• chest tightness and coughing
• dyspnea
• anxiety
• gastrointestinal complaints
• hypotension

Question 15

Epinephrine

Answer 15

A sympothomimetic hormone (means it mimics the sympathetic fight or flight response)

Question 16

An adult EpiPen system delivers:

Answer 16

.3 mg of epinephrine

Question 17

Infant-child EpiPen system (EpiPen Jr) delivers:

Answer 17

.15 mg of epinephrine