American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Practice Exam

The administration of an antihistamine is the appropriate response when a patient exhibits hives, which are a common symptom of an allergic reaction. Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction that contributes to symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling associated with hives.

Histamine plays a key role in the body’s immune response; when the body encounters an allergen, histamine is released, leading to symptoms like hives. The use of antihistamines can help alleviate these symptoms quickly by inhibiting the action of histamine on the H1 receptors in the skin, thereby reducing inflammation and itchiness.

In contrast, antibiotics are primarily used to treat bacterial infections and are not effective against allergic reactions. Analgesics are pain relievers and do not address the underlying allergic symptoms. Antipyretics are used to reduce fever and are not relevant in the treatment of hives caused by an allergic reaction. Therefore, antihistamines are the go-to medication for managing hives effectively.