What is the recommended intervention for a patient experiencing a severe allergic reaction?

What is the recommended intervention for a patient experiencing a severe allergic reaction?

• A. Monitor blood pressure
• B. Administer epinephrine
• C. Provide oxygen therapy
• D. Give a muscle relaxant

Answer: (B)

The recommended intervention for a patient experiencing a severe allergic reaction, commonly known as anaphylaxis, is to administer epinephrine. Epinephrine acts quickly to reverse the life-threatening symptoms associated with anaphylaxis, such as airway swelling, low blood pressure, and severe bronchospasm. By stimulating alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, epinephrine causes vasoconstriction, which increases blood pressure, and bronchodilation, which opens the airways, making it crucial for immediate treatment in this emergency situation. While monitoring blood pressure is important in managing a patient's overall condition, it does not directly address the acute symptoms of anaphylaxis. Providing oxygen therapy is beneficial for patients who are experiencing respiratory distress, but it is not the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Muscle relaxants are not indicated in this scenario, as they do not address the underlying issue of airway obstruction or shock caused by anaphylaxis. Administering epinephrine remains the most critical and time-sensitive intervention for effectively managing severe allergic reactions.

The recommended intervention for a patient experiencing a severe allergic reaction, commonly known as anaphylaxis, is to administer epinephrine. Epinephrine acts quickly to reverse the life-threatening symptoms associated with anaphylaxis, such as airway swelling, low blood pressure, and severe bronchospasm. By stimulating alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, epinephrine causes vasoconstriction, which increases blood pressure, and bronchodilation, which opens the airways, making it crucial for immediate treatment in this emergency situation.

While monitoring blood pressure is important in managing a patient's overall condition, it does not directly address the acute symptoms of anaphylaxis. Providing oxygen therapy is beneficial for patients who are experiencing respiratory distress, but it is not the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Muscle relaxants are not indicated in this scenario, as they do not address the underlying issue of airway obstruction or shock caused by anaphylaxis. Administering epinephrine remains the most critical and time-sensitive intervention for effectively managing severe allergic reactions.