Anaphylaxis Flashcards
What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis?
- Skin rashes, itching, and hives (urticaria)
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Shortness of breath, trouble breathing, wheezing
- Cough, cyanosis
- Dizziness and/or fainting
- Stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
Symptoms involve multiple body systems including skin, lungs, heart, gut, and brain.
What is the first step in managing anaphylaxis?
High flow O2
Providing oxygen is critical in managing anaphylaxis.
What position should a patient be placed in during anaphylaxis management?
Lay flat
This position helps stabilize the patient.
Where should IM adrenaline (epinephrine) be administered in an anaphylactic patient?
Anterolateral aspect of the middle thigh
This site allows for rapid absorption of the medication.
In a hypotensive patient experiencing anaphylaxis, what should be given first?
IM adrenaline
Followed by IV fluids for further management.
True or False: Adrenaline (epinephrine) is the most important drug in anaphylaxis management.
True
It is crucial to administer adrenaline as soon as possible.
Fill in the blank: Anaphylaxis is usually characterized by involvement of _____ parts of the body.
more than one
Symptoms can affect multiple systems simultaneously.
What is the recommended dose of IM Adrenaline for infants under 6 months?
150 micrograms (0.15ml 1 in 1,000)
This dose is specifically for patients under 6 months of age.
What is the recommended dose of IM Adrenaline for children aged 6 months to 6 years?
150 micrograms (0.15ml 1 in 1,000)
The same as for infants under 6 months.
What is the recommended dose of IM Adrenaline for children aged 6-12 years?
300 micrograms (0.3ml 1 in 1,000)
This dose increases as the child’s age increases.
What is the recommended dose of IM Adrenaline for adults and children over 12 years?
500 micrograms (0.5ml 1 in 1,000)
This is the maximum standard dose for this age group.
What is the best site for IM injection of Adrenaline?
The anterolateral aspect of the middle third of the thigh
This site is recommended for optimal absorption.
What is the recommended dose of Hydrocortisone for children?
250 micrograms/kg
This dosage is weight-dependent.
What is the recommended dose of Chlorphenamine for adults?
10 mg
This is the standard dose for adult patients.
What is the recommended dose of Chlorphenamine for children aged 6-12 years?
5 mg
This dosage is suitable for this age group.
What is the recommended dose of Chlorphenamine for children aged 6 months to 6 years?
2.5 mg
A lower dose for younger children.
How often can Adrenaline be repeated if necessary?
Every 5 minutes
This is important for managing acute allergic reactions.
Fill in the blank: After giving Adrenaline, give _______ and _______.
Hydrocortisone and Chlorpheniramine
These medications are given to manage the allergic reaction.
True or False: Adrenaline is always given intravenously.
False
Adrenaline is always given intramuscularly.
How long should patients be observed after treatment for anaphylaxis?
6-12 hours
This observation period is crucial due to the possibility of biphasic reactions occurring in up to 20% of patients.
What is a biphasic reaction in the context of anaphylaxis?
A secondary reaction that can occur after the initial anaphylactic episode.
What percentage of patients may experience biphasic reactions?
Up to 20%
What test is sometimes taken to confirm anaphylaxis?
Serum tryptase levels
Serum tryptase levels remain elevated for up to 12 hours following an acute episode of anaphylaxis.
What indicates that a patient is having an allergic reaction rather than anaphylaxis?
Rash only, with no difficulty of breathing
