Allergic Reactions

A set of flashcards to help students study key concepts related to allergic reactions.

Allergic reaction

An exaggerated immune response to a foreign substance.

Allergen

A substance that causes an allergic reaction.

Anaphylaxis

A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by rapid blood vessel dilation and a drop in blood pressure.

Hypotension

Abnormally low blood pressure, often seen in anaphylaxis.

Angioedema

Swelling that occurs in tissues due to fluid leakage, often around the vocal cords in allergic reactions.

Urticaria

Hives on the skin associated with allergic reactions.

Bronchoconstriction

Constriction of the air passages, which decreases airflow in the lungs during an allergic reaction.

Histamines

Substances released by the immune system during an allergic reaction that cause various symptoms.

Latex allergy

A sensitivity to latex, common among patients with multiple surgeries and healthcare providers.

Primary assessment

Evaluation of a patient to identify immediate life threats, focused on ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation).

Secondary assessment

Comprehensive evaluation after the primary assessment, including history of allergies and symptoms.

Epinephrine

A medication used to treat severe allergic reactions by constricting blood vessels and dilating bronchioles.

Auto-injector

A device that delivers a single dose of medication, commonly used for administering epinephrine.

Tightness in the throat

A common respiratory symptom of an allergic reaction indicating potential airway obstruction.

Wheezing

A high-pitched whistle sound made during breathing, often associated with bronchoconstriction in allergic reactions.

Altered mental status

A change in a person's awareness or responsiveness, a potential sign of severe allergic reaction.

Flushed skin

Red and warm skin often seen during allergic reactions due to dilated blood vessels.

Respiratory distress

Difficulty breathing that can occur during allergic reactions, indicating possible anaphylaxis.

Itching

A common symptom of allergic reactions affecting the skin.

Signs and symptoms of shock

Manifestations include altered mental status, pale skin, and changes in vital signs.

Vasodilation

Widening of blood vessels that can lead to a decrease in blood pressure during allergic reactions.

Medical direction

Guidance provided by a physician or medical personnel to ensure proper care administration.

High-concentration oxygen

Oxygen provided in higher amounts to improve respiratory function during distress.

Progression of symptoms

The way symptoms evolve in severity; mild reactions can lead to anaphylaxis.

Primary causes of allergic reactions

Common triggers including insect stings, foods, medications, and environmental substances.

Clear liquid in auto-injector

Indicates that the medication inside is not expired and safe to administer.

Competency in technique

The ability of EMTs to administer medications correctly and safely per established protocols.

Imminent doom

A psychological symptom associated with severe allergic reactions where the patient feels an overwhelming sense of fear.

Assessment of baseline vital signs

Initial measurement of a patient's vital signs for comparison after treatment.

Epinephrine administration rules

Guidelines dictating when and how to use epinephrine for patients in anaphylaxis.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) systems

Organized services that provide urgent medical care and transportation.

Intramuscular injection

A method of delivering medication directly into the muscle tissue, used for epinephrine.

First exposure to allergen

The initial contact with an allergen where antibodies are formed but no reaction occurs.

Epinephrine for cardiac conditions

Caution against administering epinephrine to patients with pre-existing heart problems or hypertension.

Auto-injector training

Instruction needed for creating proficiency in safely administering auto-injectors.

Epinephrine's effects

Effects include constriction of blood vessels, increased heart rate, and bronchodilation.

Allergic reaction unpredictability

The variable nature of reactions where symptoms may develop suddenly or delayed.

Patient monitoring protocols

Procedures for observing and documenting a patient's condition during treatment for allergic reactions.