CEA Nursing Practice Exam

For managing persistent itching and hives (urticaria) in a 21-year-old patient, which class of medication would be the most effective?

1. Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors

2. NSAIDs

3. Inhaled corticosteroids

4. First generation antihistamines

The correct answer is: First generation antihistamines

First generation antihistamines are recognized as the most effective class of medication for managing persistent itching and hives (urticaria). This is due to their ability to block histamine, a substance released during allergic reactions, from binding to its receptors. By inhibiting histamine’s actions, these medications help alleviate symptoms such as itching and rashes associated with urticaria. The effectiveness of first generation antihistamines can be attributed to their sedative effects, which can also have a calming influence on the nervous system, providing additional relief from symptoms. In contrast, other medication classes listed do not adequately target the mechanisms responsible for urticaria and its associated itching. For instance, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors are primarily used to manage hypertension and heart failure, NSAIDs are primarily for pain relief and inflammation, while inhaled corticosteroids are typically used for respiratory conditions and not directly for allergic skin reactions. Understanding this mechanism helps emphasize why first generation antihistamines stand out as the primary choice for managing the itching and hives associated with allergic responses.