A life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can cause shock, a sudden drop in blood pressure and trouble breathing. In people who have an allergy, anaphylaxis can occur minutes after exposure to a specific allergy-causing substance (allergen). In some cases, there may be a delayed reaction, or anaphylaxis may occur without an obvious trigger. Show
If you're with someone having an allergic reaction with signs of anaphylaxis:
If you're with someone having symptoms of anaphylaxis, don't wait to see whether symptoms get better. Seek emergency treatment right away. In severe cases, untreated anaphylaxis can lead to death within half an hour. An antihistamine pill, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), isn't enough to treat anaphylaxis. These medications can help relieve allergy symptoms, but they work too slowly in a severe reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
Some common anaphylaxis triggers include:
If you've had any kind of severe allergic reaction in the past, ask your doctor if you should be prescribed an epinephrine autoinjector to carry with you. Sign up for
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. What is the most important step a nurse can take to prevent anaphylactic shock in a patient?Because anaphylactic shock occurs in patients already exposed to an antigen and who have developed antibodies to it, it can often be prevented. Avoid exposure to allergens. Teach the patient to avoid exposure to known allergens, may it be food, drug, or an insect bite. Desensitization.
What is the best way to prevent anaphylaxis?The best way to prevent anaphylaxis is to stay away from substances that cause this severe reaction. Also: Wear a medical alert necklace or bracelet to indicate you have an allergy to specific drugs or other substances. Keep an emergency kit with prescribed medications available at all times.
Which is the highest priority nursing intervention for the patient who is having an anaphylactic reaction?Death from anaphylaxis may occur as a result of severe respiratory complications, cardiovascular collapse, or both. Early administration of intramuscular (IM) Epinephrine is first line treatment for anaphylaxis to prevent death and there is no known equivalent substitute.
What are the appropriate steps to manage an anaphylactic reaction?If anaphylaxis is suspected, take the following steps:. Rapidly assess airway, breathing, circulation, and mentation (mental activity).. Call for emergency medical services (EMS).. Place the patient in a supine position (face up), with feet elevated, unless upper airway obstruction is present, or the patient is vomiting.. |