Allergies: Anaphylaxis

Question 1

List 5 signs and symptoms of ANAPHYLAXIS

Answer 1

■ Cardiac arrest
■Feelings of doom
■Rapid heartbeat
■LOW blood pressure
■Fainting

Question 2

Discuss the primary/ initial management of anaphylaxis

Answer 2

■Remove exposure of participating agent
■Administer ADRENALINE (epinephrine) INTO THE ANTEROLATERAL ASPECT OF THE MIDDLE THRID OF THE THIGH.
■Dose for ADRENALINE: 0.3-0.5 ml of 1:1000(1mg/ml) IM (intramuscular)
■Repeat every 10-15 min if no improvement
■Provide HIGH FLOW OXYGEN
■MAINTAIN patent airway
■Position patient in the supine position with legs elevated
■Monitor vital signs

Question 3

When and how would you administer adrenaline via IV if necessary?

Answer 3

■ Adrenaline via IV is potentially hazardous, however can be considered in life-threatening hypotension
■Dosage: Dilute 1mg (1:10 000, 1mg/10ml) in 200 ml saline and INFUSE at 1ml/min

Question 4

List the adjunctive agents of managing anaphylaxis

Answer 4

■Promethazine: 25 mg IM or slow IV
■Hydrocortisone (Solu-Cortef): 200 mg IV
■Promethazine (Phenergan): 50-100 mg IM/IV
■Aminophylline: 250 mg IV