Anaphylactic shock is commonly caused by:

UP NHM CHO 7 Sept 2022 (Shift-2)

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: UP NHM CHO 7 Sept 2022 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Insect or spider bites can inject venom into the body, which acts as a powerful allergen in sensitized individuals.
This allergen triggers a Type I hypersensitivity reaction, causing mast cells to degranulate and release massive amounts of histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
The systemic release of these mediators leads to the classic signs of anaphylaxis: vasodilation (hypotension), bronchoconstriction (difficulty breathing), and increased capillary permeability (edema).

Option A: Choking is a mechanical obstruction of the airway, leading to asphyxia. It does not involve an immune system response.
Option B: A heart attack (myocardial infarction) is caused by a blockage of the coronary arteries, resulting in cardiac muscle ischemia and necrosis. It is a cardiovascular event, not an allergic one.
Option D: Drowning causes respiratory failure due to submersion in a liquid, leading to hypoxia and asphyxia. It is not an allergic reaction.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causes of Anaphylactic Shock as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Rapid recognition of anaphylaxis triggers, such as a recent insect sting, is a critical nursing skill. The nurse must be able to connect the trigger to the patient's symptoms (e.g., hives, wheezing, hypotension) to ensure immediate intervention.
The priority nursing action in anaphylaxis is the prompt administration of intramuscular epinephrine. Delaying this treatment significantly increases the risk of mortality.
What if? If a patient experiencing anaphylaxis is also taking a beta-blocker medication, they may have a blunted or paradoxical response to epinephrine. In such cases, glucagon may be required to counteract the effects of the beta-blocker and manage the hypotension.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is the cause of 'anaphylactic shock'.
Recall the definition of anaphylactic shock: a severe, rapid, and systemic allergic reaction.
Evaluate each option to see if it fits the definition of an allergic reaction trigger.
Analyze Option A (Choking), B (Heart attack), and D (Drowning). Recognize that these are medical emergencies with different mechanisms: mechanical obstruction, cardiovascular blockage, and asphyxiation by fluid, respectively. None are allergic in nature.
Analyze Option C (Insect/spider bite). Recall that venom from insects is a well-known allergen that can provoke a severe immune response in sensitized individuals.
Conclude that the insect/spider bite is the only option that represents a common trigger for an allergic reaction leading to anaphylactic shock.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 96-98

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 1433-1435