Chapter 21 Flashcards
Abdominal cramping
A common gastrointestinal symptom associated with food-induced anaphylaxis.
Actions of epinephrine
Epinephrine mimics the responses of the sympathetic nervous system, constricting blood vessels to improve blood pressure and reducing leakage from capillaries, while relaxing smooth muscle in bronchioles to improve breathing.
Activation of auto-injector
Activated by pressing it against the patient’s thigh, releasing a spring-activated plunger.
Acute circulatory compromise
A reaction with edema of the bronchiole and/or edema of the upper airway, including falling blood pressure, weak pulse, and poor tissue perfusion.
Acute respiratory compromise
A reaction with normal bronchiole and normal airway resulting in an occluded upper airway and labored respirations.
Administration of epinephrine
To administer the epinephrine by auto-injector, obtain an order from medical direction, obtain the auto-injector, check the medication, remove the safety cap(s), place the tip against the lateral aspect of the patient’s thigh, push the injector firmly, hold in place until all medication is injected, dispose of the injector in a biohazard container, and record the administration.
Adult dose of epinephrine
The dosage for adults is typically 0.3 mg or greater.
Advanced life support (ALS)
May be needed for advanced airway control and further medication administration in severe cases.
Agitation
A state of anxiety or restlessness that may be observed in patients experiencing anaphylaxis.
Airway compromise
Swelling of the tissues lining the larynx that can obstruct airflow.
Airway obstruction signs
Indicators such as stridor, hoarseness, or crowing sounds that suggest significant swelling of the airway.
Allergens
A specific type of antigen that causes an abnormal response by the immune system.
Allergic Reaction
A misdirected and excessive response by the immune system to an allergen.
Allergic reaction vs. side effect
A side effect of a medication is not the same as an allergic reaction, such as nausea after codeine.
Alpha properties of epinephrine
Causes the vessels to constrict and regulates the amount of vasoconstriction.
Altered mental status (AMS)
Changes in mental function that may occur during severe allergic reactions.
Anaphylactic reaction
A severe allergic reaction that can cause weak and rapid pulse, edema, and respiratory distress.
Anaphylactic Reaction Criteria for Epinephrine Administration
Criteria that require aggressive emergency care and administration of epinephrine when specific conditions are met.
Anaphylactic Shock
A life-threatening response characterized by cardiovascular collapse and hypotension.
Anaphylactic Shock
A condition characterized by hypoperfusion or shock in conjunction with other signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis. (AKA Anaphylactic Reaction, Anaphylaxis
Anaphylactoid reaction
A non-IgE mediated reaction that can occur the first time an antigen is introduced into the body.
Anaphylactoid reaction
A reaction where chemical mediators are released from mast cells and basophils the first time the antigen is introduced into the body without prior sensitization.
Angioedema
Swelling of the skin and other tissues such as the lips and tongue, often associated with allergic reactions, can be drug induced.
Antibodies
Proteins that search for the antigen, combine with it, and help to destroy it.