Immune System Basics
What does immunity mean?
The body's natural or induced ability to resist infection
Which type of immunity has memory and responds more strongly with repeat exposure?
Specific (adaptive) immunity
What is the normal WBC count?
4,500-10,000
Where to T cells mature?
What is hypersensitivity?
An altered immune response that causes tissues damage instead of protection
What is meant by immunocompetent?
The immune system is functioning properly
What type of immunity is the body's first line of defense?
Non-specific (innate) immunity
What does leukocytosis indicate?
Elevated WBC count usually indicates infection or inflammation
Which T cells initiate the immune response?
Helper T cells
Which type of hypersensitivity is IgE-mediated and immediate?
Which type of immunity responds the same way to all invaders?
Non-specific (innate) immunity
What is the key difference between active and passive immunity?
Active immunity means the body makes its own antibodies; passive immunity means antibodies are given by an external source
Which leukocytes are most important in acute infection?
Granulocytes
Which cells directly kill infected or malignant cells?
Cytotoxic T cells
What is the priority nursing intervention during anaphylaxis?
Airway management and epinephrine administration
How does immunodeficiency differ from autoimmune disease?
Immunodeficiency is a weak or ineffective immune system, while autoimmune disease is when the immune system attack's the body's own tissue
Which type of immunity occurs after vaccination?
Active immunity
Which WBCs are the primary phagocytes for bacteria?
Neutrophils
Which antibody is produced first in a primary immune response?
IgM
Which hypersensitivity reaction is delayed and T cell mediated?
Type 4
What are the 3 main things the immune system protects the body from?
Foreign substances (antigens), infectious agents, and abnormal or malignant cells
Why does passive immunity provide immediate but short-term protection?
Because antibodies are given directly and no memory cells are formed
Which leukocytes are involved in allergic and hypersensitivity reactions?
Eosinophils
Which immunoglobulin crosses the placenta?
IgG
A patient has wheezing, hypotension, and facial swelling. What is the patient exhibiting?
Anaphylaxis