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    Ati Rn Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Proctored Exam

    A nurse is assessing a preoperative client for allergies. Which of the following client statements would the nurse identify as a risk for an allergy to latex?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Latex allergy is an immune-mediated hypersensitivity reaction that can range from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis. Certain individuals have a higher risk of developing latex sensitivity due to cross-reactivity between latex proteins and specific food allergens. Preoperative assessment is essential because exposure to latex-containing products during surgery can trigger life-threatening reactions. Identifying risk factors early allows for appropriate precautions in the perioperative setting. A. Wheezing after eating peanuts suggests a systemic IgE-mediated allergic response, and peanuts are part of the “latex–fruit syndrome” due to cross-reactivity between latex proteins and certain foods. Individuals with allergies to peanuts, bananas, avocados, and chestnuts are at increased risk for latex sensitivity. This history places the client at higher risk for a latex allergy. B. Trouble urinating after eating acidic foods is not related to allergic reactions but may suggest bladder irritation or sensitivity. This is not an immune-mediated response and has no association with latex allergy. Therefore, it does not indicate increased risk. C. Diarrhea after eating scrambled eggs may suggest a food intolerance or possible egg allergy, but it is not associated with cross-reactivity to latex. While food allergies are important, eggs are not part of the known latex cross-reactive food group. This does not indicate increased latex allergy risk. D. Skin rash after eating strawberries may indicate a mild food allergy or histamine reaction, but strawberries are not strongly associated with latex cross-reactivity. Although it reflects a possible allergic tendency, it is not a known risk factor for latex allergy compared to foods like bananas or peanuts.

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