Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

What could increase the risk of hypersensitivity reactions in patients?

1. Male sex assigned at birth

2. History of asthma or allergies

3. Young adult age

4. Low lymphocyte count

The correct answer is: History of asthma or allergies

The presence of a history of asthma or allergies is known to significantly increase the likelihood of hypersensitivity reactions in patients. This predisposition arises because individuals with asthma or allergies often have an overactive immune response to certain allergens or medications. Such individuals may produce higher levels of IgE antibodies, which play a crucial role in the body's allergic response. When exposed to allergens or specific pharmacological agents, the immune system can mistakenly identify them as harmful, leading to an exaggerated immune reaction, which is characterized as a hypersensitivity reaction. Male sex assigned at birth, young adult age, and low lymphocyte count do not have the same established correlation with increased risk of hypersensitivity reactions. Although demographics can influence health conditions, they are not as directly linked to hypersensitivity as a history of asthma or allergies. This makes the understanding of patient history, particularly concerning asthma and allergic conditions, vital for predicting potential hypersensitivity in clinical practice.