lec. 5 allergic reactions

allergic reactions are….

hypersensitivity of the immune system and an inappropriate immune response to common environmental, food and/or drug substances

Allergic reaction can vary in severity,

and are a fairly common finding on medical history’s.

A rash or hives 

is a fairly common finding of a person having an allergic reaction

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction (type I)

that can occur rapidly after exposure to an allergen

symptoms of a person with anaphylaxis include….

shortness of breath, closure of the throat due to swelling, facial swelling, and lightheadedness

Benadryl, a common anti-histamine, is NOT

considered to be a first line tx for anaphylaxis

Epinephrine

is the drug of choice for these cases

The adult version of the EpiPen contians 

0.3 mgs of epinephrine 

where should the EpiPen be administered at?

into the side of the thigh

Penicillin is the 1st drug that people…..

are allergic to and will be a common finding

True, documented allergy to local anesthetics is considered extremely rare and the pt MOST LIKELY experienced an intravascular injection of a local anesthetic

which contained epinephrine, however the pt should be asked several follow-up questions regarding their reaction and a medical consult obtained, if warranted

Type IV allergic reactions involve…

T-Lymphocytes and a contact dermatitis is the most usual finding

Type IV allergic reactions are delayed…

and symptoms take multiple days to form

Avoidance of the suspected allergen is the most effective treatment…

for type IV allergic reactions