Anaphylaxis

Question 1

What is anaphylaxis?

Answer 1

Inappropriate immunological response causing mass release of histamine

Question 2

Respiratory symptoms of anaphylaxis

Answer 2

Difficulty/noisy breathing
Swelling of tongue
Difficulty talking
Hoarse voice
Wheezing

Question 3

Circulation symptoms of anaphylaxis

Answer 3

Collapse
Floppiness
Hypotension
Slow capillary refill time

Question 4

Neurological symptoms of anaphylaxis

Answer 4

Loss of consciousness
Agitation
Feeling scared

Question 5

Skin changes of anaphylaxis

Answer 5

Flushed skin
Rash
Angioedema

Question 6

How long does adrenaline take to work?

Answer 6

One to two minutes

Question 7

How many doses can authorised vaccinators give of adrenaline?

Answer 7

No maximum.

Half life is 15 minutes so repeat dosing after 15 minutes.

Question 8

What key emergency equipment is needed?

Answer 8

Three adrenaline 1:1000 amps with dose chart
1mL tuberculin syringe
Needles
Phone
Bag valve mask resuscitator

Question 9

What is the procedure if anaphylaxis occurs?

Answer 9

1. Check Airways, Breathing, Circulation.
2. Call for help
3. Position patient safely
4. Adminsiter adrenaline
5. CPR
6. Record vital signs
7. Hospital

Question 10

Maximum dose of adrenaline that can be adminstered by an authorised vaccinator?

Answer 10

0.5mL

Question 11

What to do if someone faints?

Answer 11

Raise legs. Usually will recover on its own/

Question 12

What to do if a baby is breath-holding?

Answer 12

Blow on face/flick with water. If first case, refer to GP.

Question 13

Anxiety vs anaphylaxis

Answer 13

Capillary refill time, blood pressure

Question 14

What is hypotonic-hyporesponsive episode?

Answer 14

Sudden onset of limpness, and reduced responsivenss occurring after vaccination in children under 2.