Allergy Basic
What is an allergy?
An overreaction of the immune system to something harmless.
What kind of rash might appear during an allergic reaction?
Hives or redness.
What is the first medication used to treat anaphylaxis?
Epinephrine (EpiPen).
A patient has hives after eating shrimp but is breathing normally. What do you do?
Monitor airway, get vitals, transport, and watch for progression.
You should inject EpiPen in the upper arm.
False – outer thigh
Name one common allergen.
Examples: peanuts, bee stings, shellfish, pollen, latex.
What is swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat called?
Angioedema.
What is the adult EpiPen dose?
0.3 mg IM or SQ
A child is stung by a bee and is wheezing. What is your immediate action?
Give Epi if prescribed, call for ALS, and provide O₂.
Hives always mean the reaction is mild.
False – it can progress quickly
What body system causes the allergic reaction?
The immune system.
What breathing sound might you hear with airway swelling?
Stridor or wheezing.
Where do you inject the EpiPen?
Into the outer thigh, through clothing if needed.
A patient’s throat is swelling and BP is 70/40. What type of shock are they in?
Anaphylactic shock.
Epinephrine raises blood pressure and opens airways.
True.
What is the severe, life-threatening allergic reaction called?
Anaphylaxis.
What vital sign change often happens during anaphylaxis?
Drop in blood pressure.
What should you do immediately after giving the EpiPen?
Massage the site for 10 seconds and call ALS/transport.
The patient says they feel “tingly” and “warm” all over. What should you do?
Suspect allergic reaction—prepare for anaphylaxis and monitor airway.
You should wait to give Epi until the patient stops breathing.
False – give Epi immediately for severe reactions.
Name two body systems affected during anaphylaxis
Respiratory and cardiovascular systems (can also include skin or GI).
What are early signs that a reaction might get worse?
Itching, throat tightness, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
Besides Epi, name one other treatment EMTs can assist with if allowed by protocol.
Check your NM Scope
The EpiPen isn’t helping after 5 minutes. What’s next?
Administer a second dose if protocol allows and continue transport.
Always transport after giving Epi.
True.