Anaphylaxis

Question 1

What is anaphylaxis? [1]

Answer 1

Sudden onset life threatening airway/breathing/circulation problems after exposure to an allergen.

Question 2

What are the cardinal signs/symptoms of anaphylaxis? [4]

Answer 2

• Skin Rash
• Wheezing
• Inspiratory Stridor
• Hypotension

Question 3

What are the 1st line investigaations for anaphylaxis? [4]

Answer 3

• 12-lead ECG
• U + Es
• ABG
• mast cell tryptase

Question 4

What is the only treatment option for presumed anaphylaxis in cardiorespiratory arrest? [1]

Answer 4

CPR with Advanced life support.

If cardiac arrest has occured, adrenaline is useless.

Question 5

What is the treatment pathway for presumed anaphylaxis not in cardiorespiratory arrest? [4]

Answer 5

1. ABCDE
2. Remove trigger if possible
3. Adrenaline / Epinephrine
4. Establish airway and IV fluids

Question 6

How is epiniephrine given to patients in anaphylaxis?

Answer 6

Intramuscular

Through various needle sizes

(16mm, 25mm, 38mm)

(Orangle, blue, black)

Question 7

What are the dosages of Adrenaline in anaphylaxis for different age groups?

Answer 7

• Babies = 150 micrograms (0.15mL)
• Aged 6 - 12 = 300 micrograms (0.3mL)
• Adults = 500 micrograms (0.5mL)

Question 8

What should you give to patients post-anaphylaxis? [2]

Answer 8

Antihistamine

Corticosteroid