ch 21 Flashcards
What is an allergic reaction
An exaggerated immune response to a substance
What is an allergen
A substance that causes an allergic reaction
What is anaphylaxis
A severe reaction to an allergen that has entered the body. the immune system releases histamines which can damage body systems
What are common causes of anaphylaxis
Foods insect stings medications latex
What are the two most common signs of anaphylaxis
Urticaria (hives) and airway swelling
What are respiratory symptoms of anaphylaxis
Wheezing stridor dyspnea tightness in chest or throat
What are cardiovascular symptoms of anaphylaxis
Hypotension weak pulse dizziness syncope
What are skin signs of an allergic reaction
Flushed skin itching hives (urticaria) swelling (angioedema)
What gastrointestinal symptoms can occur with anaphylaxis
Nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
How quickly can anaphylaxis occur
Within seconds to minutes of exposure
What is the treatment for anaphylaxis
Administer epinephrine provide oxygen and rapid transport
What is the preferred route for epinephrine administration in anaphylaxis
Intramuscular (IM) injection
What is the adult dose of epinephrine via auto-injector
0.3 mg IM
What is the pediatric dose of epinephrine via auto-injector
0.15 mg IM
Where is epinephrine administered
Lateral thigh (vastus lateralis muscle)
What does epinephrine do
Constricts blood vessels relaxes airway muscles increases heart rate
When should you assist with epinephrine administration
When the patient has a prescription and meets criteria
What should you do after giving epinephrine
Reassess airway breathing circulation and prepare for transport
What is the priority if the patient is not breathing or has no pulse
Begin CPR and follow BLS protocols
What should you ask in SAMPLE history for allergy patients
Known allergies exposure prior reactions epinephrine use
What is the difference between mild and severe allergic reactions
Mild reactions are localized while severe involve respiratory or circulatory compromise
A 24-year-old woman was stung by a bee and now has hives wheezing and low blood pressure
Anaphylaxis administer epinephrine and transport rapidly
A child ate a peanut butter cookie and now has facial swelling difficulty breathing and is vomiting
Anaphylaxis administer pediatric epinephrine auto-injector and provide oxygen
A man with a known shellfish allergy eats shrimp and develops hives but has no trouble breathing or blood pressure issues
Mild allergic reaction monitor and transport if needed no epinephrine unless it progresses
A woman with a latex allergy develops a rash and slight swelling 10 minutes after putting on gloves
Mild allergic reaction remove exposure monitor closely
A man presents with confusion low blood pressure wheezing and hives after taking a new antibiotic
Anaphylactic shock give epinephrine and support airway and circulation
A teen has throat tightness hoarse voice and trouble swallowing after eating kiwi
Airway compromise from anaphylaxis administer epinephrine and prepare for airway support
A girl with no known allergies suddenly develops severe urticaria and shortness of breath after taking an ibuprofen
Suspect new allergic reaction with anaphylaxis give epinephrine and monitor ABCs
A patient is unconscious and pulseless shortly after a bee sting
Begin CPR and BLS request ALS administer epinephrine if available
A boy who received epinephrine for anaphylaxis now has a fast heart rate and is anxious but breathing well
Continue monitoring provide oxygen and transport immediately
A patient has hives and states they feel like their throat is closing but are still speaking clearly
Administer epinephrine early and prepare for potential airway obstruction
What must be present to diagnose anaphylaxis
Airway breathing or circulatory compromise
Why is early epinephrine administration important
It greatly improves outcomes and prevents rapid deterioration
What are expected side effects of epinephrine
Increased heart rate anxiety and pale skin
When might a second dose of epinephrine be needed
If symptoms return or worsen after the first dose
What is a biphasic reaction
When allergic symptoms return hours after the first reaction resolved
What is the most dangerous symptom of anaphylaxis
Airway swelling
When should you contact medical control for epinephrine
If your protocol requires permission to administer it
How often should you reassess ABCs in an allergic reaction
Frequently because condition can worsen quickly
What are signs of anaphylactic shock
Cool pale clammy skin weak pulse and low blood pressure
What should you document after giving epinephrine
Time of administration patient response and any changes
