EC Chp 20 Allergice Reactions Flashcards
Allergic reaction
An exaggerated immune response
Anaphylaxis
A severe life threatening allergic reaction in which blood vessels dilate, causing drop in blood pressure, and the tissues lining the respiratory system swell interfering with the airway
Foods in most ceases have a slower effect than insect stings, with the exception of what?
Peanuts. They can be sever and very rapid onset.
Medications allergens
Atitoxins, and drugs, especially antibiotics such as penicillin may cause severe reactions
Other allergens…
Dust, chemicals, soaps, and make up
Latex allergies you should be aware of the two groups of patients
One is with patients who require multiple surgeries
Two repeated exposure to latex in doctors and nurses gloves
Skin reaction if allergic to something
Itching Hives Flushing Swelling of face Warm, tingling feeling in the face
Respiratory signs in an allergic reaction
Feeling of tightness in throat or ches Cough, Rapid breathing Labored, noises breathing Hoarseness, muffled voice, or loss of of ice Strider, wheezing
Cardiac symptoms of allergic reaction
Increased heart rate
Decreased blood pressure
Generalized findings of allergic reactions
Itchy watery eyes
Headache
Runny nose
Patient expresses sense of impending doom
Signs and symptoms of shock from allergic reactions
Altered mental status
Flushed, dry skin or pale cool and clammy
Nausea or vomiting
Changes in vital signs: increased pulse, increased respiration’s, decreased BP
Respiratory sounds allergic vs. anaphylactic
Allergic: wheezing
Anaphylactic: Wheezing, muffled voice, strider
Epinephrine ( Ana Kit or Epi-pen)
Hormone produced by the body and as a medication it constricts blood vessels, dilates respiratory passages and is used to relieve severe allergic reactions.
When is it dangerous to give epinephrine to a patient?
A patient with a heart condition or who is hypersensitive (has high blood pressure)
Auto injectors come in 2 different sizes, one for adults and other for children. What are their sizes?
Adult: 0.30mg
Child(<66pds): 0.15mg