Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

What population is particularly vulnerable to hypersensitivity reactions?

1. Older adults

2. Patients with hypertension

3. Individuals who are well-nourished

4. Young adults with no medical history

The correct answer is: Older adults

Older adults are particularly vulnerable to hypersensitivity reactions due to several physiological and immunological factors that come into play as individuals age. The immune system in older adults tends to exhibit decreased function, which can lead to altered responses to medications, allergens, and other triggers that provoke hypersensitivity. This diminished immunological reserve can result in an increased likelihood of experiencing adverse reactions compared to younger populations. Additionally, older adults often have comorbidities and may be taking multiple medications, which raises their risk for drug interactions and hypersensitivity. Age-related changes in skin and other organ systems also contribute to this increased vulnerability, making the older population more susceptible to both predictable and unpredictable hypersensitivity reactions. In contrast, other groups stated in the options may have varying capacities to handle allergens or medications without the same level of risk. For instance, patients with hypertension may be on specific medications that are less associated with hypersensitivity, while individuals who are well-nourished generally have better immune function. Young adults with no medical history typically have intact immune systems that can respond adequately to environmental exposures.