Allergic Reactions

Anaphylaxis

severe and life threatening reaction

Anaphylaxis effects

• Blood vessels rapidly dilate and BP drops

• Cell fluids leak to interstitial space

• Tissues swell, including airways

Causes for Allergic Reactions

• Insects

• Foods

• Plants

• Medication

What happens in first interaction with allergen

Antibodies form

What happens in second interaction with allergen

Allergen

substance that causes an allergic reaction

Time frame for severe allergic reaction

Immediate or up to 30 minutes

Bronchoconstriction

Allergic reaction that decreases air movement in lungs and thick mucus develops

What are some common allergic reaction symptoms

Hives, Flushing of skin, Itchy skin, abnormal breathing

Cardiac Allergic Reactions

Increased Heart Rate, Decreased BP

Best way to treat Allergic Reaction

Epinephrine

When should you suspect an Allergic Reaction

• Patient has interacted with substance that caused reaction in past

• Complains itching, hives or hard breathing

• Signs/symptoms of shock

How to manage airway for Allergic reaction

• Apply high concentration O2

• If patient develops AMS, open/maintain airway

• If not breathing, give artificial ventilations

Consult medical direction about E-Pen when

• Respiratory issue/signs of shock

• Not wheezing or showing respiratory issue/signs of shock

• Complains Respiratory issue/signs of shock but doesn’t have E-Pen on them

After using E-Pen

• Record Administration

• Transport 

• Reassess after 2 min

What happens after E-Pen administration

• constricts blood vessels and dilates bronchioles

Where to inject E-Pen

Upper Thigh and hold 5-10 seconds

Who is E-Pen dangerous for

• heart conditions or hypotensive

What happens when too much E-Pen is given

Tachycardia and possible cardiac arrest especially for paitients with heart issues