anaphylaxis Flashcards
The following steps describe the management of anaphylaxis
The priority is prompt administration of epinephrine (step 4), which should not be delayed if earlier steps cannot quickly be completed.
1. Call for assistance, including an ambulance.
2. Place the patient in a recumbent position (elevating the feet if possible).
3. Establish an oral airway if necessary, and loosen restrictive clothing.
4. Promptly administer epinephrine:
List the most common causes of anaphylaxis
Food allergies, particularly to peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and dairy products
Insect stings, such as from bees, wasps, hornets, or fire ants
Medications, including antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and intravenous contrast dyes used in medical imaging
Latex, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people
Exercise-induced anaphylaxis, which can occur during or after physical exertion
Allergies to certain types of immunotherapy, such as allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT)
Idiopathic anaphylaxis, which is when the cause is unknown
Describe the common clinical symptoms of anaphylaxis
Skin reactions: These can include hives, itching, redness, and swelling of the skin or mucous membranes.
Respiratory symptoms: These can include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.
Cardiovascular symptoms: These can include a rapid or weak pulse, low blood pressure, dizziness or lightheadedness, and fainting.
Gastrointestinal symptoms: These can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Neurological symptoms: These can include confusion, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Explain what the long term management and support after diagnosis of allergic conditions/diseases consists of
Avoidance of allergens: The most important long-term strategy for managing allergic conditions is to avoid exposure to the allergen or allergens that trigger symptoms. This can involve identifying and avoiding specific foods, environmental allergens such as pollen or dust mites, or other triggers.
Medications: Depending on the type and severity of the allergy, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and prevent reactions. This can include antihistamines, corticosteroids, leukotriene inhibitors, or other medications.
Immunotherapy: For some patients, immunotherapy (such as allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy) may be recommended as a long-term strategy to reduce sensitivity to allergens and prevent allergic reactions.
Education and self-management: Patients with allergic conditions should receive education about their condition, including how to recognize symptoms and take appropriate action in case of an emergency. Patients should also learn self-management strategies, such as how to use medication devices and how to manage their environment to avoid triggers.
Follow-up care: Patients with allergic conditions should receive regular follow-up care with a healthcare provider to monitor their symptoms and adjust their treatment plan as needed. This may involve regular check-ups, allergy testing, and adjustments to medications or other treatments.
Support: Patients with allergic conditions may benefit from support from healthcare providers, support groups, or other resources. This can help patients manage the emotional and practical challenges of living with an allergic condition, and can also provide education and guidance on managing symptoms and avoiding triggers.
difference between epi pen and emerade
Design: The design of the Epipen and Emerade devices is slightly different. The Epipen has a cylindrical shape, while the Emerade has a rectangular shape with rounded edges.
Dose options: Epipen is available in two dose options: 0.3 mg for adults and children weighing 30 kg or more, and 0.15 mg for children weighing between 15 and 30 kg. Emerade is available in three dose options: 0.15 mg for children weighing between 7.5 and 20 kg, 0.3 mg for children and adults weighing between 20 and 50 kg, and 0.5 mg for adults weighing over 50 kg.
Needle length: The needle length of the Epipen is 15 mm, while the needle length of the Emerade is 25 mm. This may make the Emerade more suitable for patients with thicker subcutaneous tissue.
Administration time: The administration time for the Epipen is 10 seconds, while the administration time for the Emerade is 5 seconds.
Audible instructions: The Emerade device has audible instructions that guide the user through the administration process, while the Epipen does not.
