Ch. 4 Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis

Question 1

What are allergic reactions caused by?

Answer 1

an excessive release of histamines and other substances from the bodies immune system response to the presence of foreign allergens

Question 2

signs and symptoms of mild/moderate allergic reactions (5)

Answer 2

1. swelling near the injection site (stings)
2. hay fever signs and symptoms (pollen)
3. flushed and itchy skin
4. hives and/or welts on skin
5. no respiratory difficulty

Question 3

treatment principles for mild/moderate allergic reactions

Answer 3

1. remove the allergen or the patient from offending environment
2. administer oral antihistamines
3. monitor closely for facial swelling and respiratory compromise.

Question 4

What is Anaphylaxis?

Answer 4

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is life threatening causing:

• bronchospasm
• leaking blood vessels
• massive vasodilation (vasogenic shock)
• death by asphyxiation, shock or both

Question 5

what is bronchospasm?

Answer 5

Severe difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat

Question 6

Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis

Answer 6

mild to moderate allergic reaction symptoms

1. flushed, itchy skin
2. hives and or welts
3. large areas of swelling typically face, lips and tongue. possibly hands and feet
4. difficulty swallowing
5. respiratory distress, unable to speak in more than one or two work clusters
6. gastrointestinal symptoms such as crampy abdomen pain and vomiting
7. signs and symptoms of shock

Question 7

Treatment principles of anaphylaxis

Answer 7

1. inject epinephrine
   - any airway swelling (lips, tongue, ulvua, voice changes)
   - large areas of swelling
   - respiratory compromise
   - shock
2. Oral antihistamines whenever patient is able to swallow
3. if reaction reoccurs, continue to administer epinephrine
4. rapid evac

Question 8

when is a secondary reaction likely to occur?

Answer 8

between 12-24 hrs