In which order should a nurse respond when a patient develops wheezing and dyspnea after receiving IV antibiotics?

The correct response order is based on the urgency of the interventions required for a patient who is experiencing wheezing and dyspnea, which suggests an acute allergic reaction or anaphylaxis following an infusion of antibiotics.

Discontinuing the antibiotic infusion immediately addresses the potential cause of the reaction, halting further exposure to the allergen. Immediately followed by starting 100% oxygen ensures that the patient receives optimal respiratory support during this critical time when they may be struggling to breathe.

Injecting epinephrine is paramount because it acts rapidly to counteract anaphylactic symptoms by vasoconstriction, bronchodilation, and reducing vascular permeability. This medication is often the first-line treatment in cases of severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.

While administering diphenhydramine is important for managing allergic reactions, it is not as critical in the immediate response as the aforementioned steps. Although preparing an infusion of dopamine may be relevant in managing hypotension that can accompany severe allergic reactions, it is not the immediate priority compared to ensuring airway patency and addressing life-threatening symptoms.

This systematic approach prioritizes interventions in a way that rapidly stabilizes the patient while also addressing the likely cause of their symptoms.