What action should a perioperative nurse take if a patient reports an allergy to shellfish?

• A. Administer an antihistamine immediately
• B. Alert the surgeon for alternative medications
• C. Document the allergy for future reference
• D. Provide the patient with a shellfish-free diet

Answer: (B)

In the case where a patient reports an allergy to shellfish, alerting the surgeon for alternative medications is crucial. Shellfish allergies can often indicate potential reactions to certain anesthetics or medications that contain shellfish-derived components, such as some types of intravenous contrast media or local anesthetics. By informing the surgeon, the perioperative nurse ensures that the surgical team is aware of the allergy and can take appropriate measures to avoid any medications or materials that could trigger an allergic reaction. This proactive communication enhances patient safety and minimizes the risk of adverse reactions during the perioperative phase.

While documenting the allergy is important for future reference and providing a shellfish-free diet can be relevant in a post-operative context, immediate action regarding medication alternatives is essential to prevent any complications during the surgery. Administering an antihistamine, while sometimes indicated for allergic reactions, does not directly address the need for adjustments in surgical planning related to the allergy itself. Thus, notifying the surgeon is the most appropriate and timely action in the perioperative setting.