Prophecy Emergency Department Registered Nurse (RN) Practice Test

Swelling of the face, lips, or throat is indeed a common and critical sign of anaphylactic shock. This swelling, known as angioedema, occurs due to the release of histamines and other inflammatory mediators in response to an allergen. Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause the airways to constrict; swelling in these areas can lead to difficulty breathing and a compromised airway, which necessitates immediate medical intervention.

While rapid heartbeat, rash, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting can occur during anaphylactic reactions, they are not as defining as the facial and throat swelling in diagnosing the severity of the condition. Recognition of these key symptoms is crucial in the emergency department setting to ensure prompt treatment, such as the administration of epinephrine, which can reverse the life-threatening effects of anaphylaxis.