Pathology, Contraindications & Pharmacology
Recognize risk, adapt thoughtfully, and know when to pause or refer.
Lesson 5 of 18
Immune System Disorders
The immune system protects against threats while distinguishing the body's own tissues. Disorders may involve reduced defenses, overactive responses, or mistaken attacks on self-tissue. Symptoms, infection risk, medications, and energy levels vary widely. Ask what affects comfort and safety rather than making assumptions based on a diagnosis.
Key points
- Autoimmune conditions involve immune activity directed against the body's own tissues.
- Immunosuppression may result from disease or treatment and can increase infection risk.
- Allergic responses range from mild irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
- Flares can change pain, fatigue, skin sensitivity, or tolerance for pressure from day to day.
- Screen for current fever, active infection, skin breakdown, and treatment-related precautions.
- Modify pressure and duration according to client feedback and clinician guidance when needed.
Key terms
- Autoimmune disorder
- A condition in which immune activity targets the body's own tissues.
- Immunosuppression
- Reduced immune function or response.
- Allergen
- A substance capable of provoking an allergic response.
- Anaphylaxis
- A severe, rapidly developing systemic allergic reaction.
- Flare
- A period when symptoms of a condition become more active.
Memory tip
Ask about today's baseline, not only the diagnosis on the chart.
Clinical note
For immunocompromised clients, meticulous hygiene and postponement during illness are especially important; avoid pressure over fragile or inflamed tissue.
Unit checkpoint
Lock it in: match the terms, then test yourself.