The most important complication of anaphylactic shock in the adolescent client is most important for the nurse to detect early?

The most important complication of anaphylactic shock in the adolescent client is most important for the nurse to detect early?

• A. Urticaria
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Restlessness
• D. Laryngeal edema

Answer: (D)

Airway compromise from swelling in the throat is the most dangerous early sign of anaphylaxis. Laryngeal edema can rapidly obstruct airflow, so recognizing swelling of the larynx—manifesting as hoarseness, a muffled voice, stridor, or a sensation of throat tightness—signals a need for immediate action to secure the airway. In contrast, hives (urticaria) are common but do not by themselves indicate imminent airway blockage; tachycardia and restlessness reflect systemic distress but are less specific to impending airway failure. The key lesson is that the fastest route to life-threatening deterioration in anaphylaxis is airway obstruction, so early detection of laryngeal edema is the critical priority for the nurse.

Airway compromise from swelling in the throat is the most dangerous early sign of anaphylaxis. Laryngeal edema can rapidly obstruct airflow, so recognizing swelling of the larynx—manifesting as hoarseness, a muffled voice, stridor, or a sensation of throat tightness—signals a need for immediate action to secure the airway. In contrast, hives (urticaria) are common but do not by themselves indicate imminent airway blockage; tachycardia and restlessness reflect systemic distress but are less specific to impending airway failure. The key lesson is that the fastest route to life-threatening deterioration in anaphylaxis is airway obstruction, so early detection of laryngeal edema is the critical priority for the nurse.