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Antihistamines selectively block the effects of histamine at the histamine-1 receptor sites, decreasing the allergic response. Antihistamines are used for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, uncomplicated urticaria, and angioedema. Learn about the uses and nursing care plan considerations and nursing diagnoses needed for patients taking antihistamines in this nursing pharmacology study guide. Antihistamines: Generic and Brand NamesHere is a table of commonly encountered antihistamines, their generic names, and brand names:
Disease Spotlight: Seasonal RhinitisSeasonal rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal cavity, commonly called hay fever, that afflicts many people.
What are Antihistamines?Antihistamines block the release or action of histamine, a chemical released during inflammation that increases secretions and narrows airways.
Therapeutic ActionsThe desired actions of antihistamines are as follows:
Indication of AntihistaminesAntihistamines are indicated for the following:
Pharmacokinetics of AntihistaminesThe antihistamines are well-absorbed orally, with an onset of action ranging from 1 to 3 hours.
Contraindications and CautionsThe following are contraindications and cautions when using antihistamines:
Adverse Effects of AntihistaminesAdverse effects from the use of antihistamines include:
InteractionsInteractions involved in the use of antihistamines include:
Nursing considerations for a patient using antihistamines include the following: Nursing AssessmentHistory taking and examination of a patient using antihistamines may include the following:
Nursing Diagnosis and Care PlanningNursing diagnoses and nursing care plans related to medical therapy with an antihistamine may include:
Nursing Implementation with RationaleNursing interventions for patients using antihistamines include the following:
EvaluationEvaluation of a patient using antihistamines include:
Practice Quiz: AntihistaminesHere’s a 5-item quiz for this antihistamine study guide. Please visit our nursing test bank page for more NCLEX practice questions. 1. A nurse is giving teachings to a client receiving Desloratadine (Clarinex). Which of the following statements made by the client will need further instructions? A. “I can eat gum after I drink the medicine” B. “I can take the medicine on an empty stomach“ C. “I should avoid using alcohol” D. “I will avoid driving while using this medication” 1. Answer: B. “I can take the medicine on an empty stomach”.
2. Nurse Zeke is giving instructions to her client who is taking antihistamine. Which of the following nurse teachings is appropriate for the client? A. Expect a relief in 24 hours B. Be aware that you may have increased saliva C. Be aware that you may need to take a decongestant D. Avoid ingesting alcohol 2. Answer: D. Avoid ingesting alcohol.
3. Andrew has vertigo, which antihistamine is best for his condition? A. Terfenadine D. Hydrocodone 3. Answer: C. Meclizine.
4. Raul, a 20-year-old student, used to buy OTC drugs whenever he feels sick. Which of the following statements best describes the danger of self-medication with over-the-counter drugs? A. Clients are not aware of the action of over-the-counter drugs. B. Clients are not aware of the side effects of over-the-counter drugs. C. Clients minimize the effects of over-the-counter drugs because they are available without a prescription. D. Clients do not realize the effects of over-the-counter drugs. 4. Answer: C. Clients minimize the effects of over-the-counter drugs because they are available without a prescription.
5. Which histamine-2 antagonist is associated with the most drug interactions? A. Prilosec B. Nizatidine C. Ranitidine D. Cimetidine 5. Answer: D. Cimetidine. Option D: Cimetidine was the first histamine-2 antagonist developed and is associated with the most toxic drug interactions of the group. Recommended ResourcesRecommended resources and reference books. Disclosure: Includes Amazon affiliate links. See AlsoHere are other nursing pharmacology study guides:
Gastrointestinal System Drugs
Respiratory System Drugs Endocrine System Drugs Autonomic Nervous System Drugs Immune System Drugs Chemotherapeutic Agents Reproductive System Drugs
Nervous System Drugs Cardiovascular System Drugs References and SourcesThe following are the recommended supplemental reading for this antihistamine nursing pharmacology study guide:
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