# Anaphylaxis Management

## Overview

This module describes how to recognise and manage anaphylaxis.

## Indications

Anaphylaxis presents with

## Contraindications

## Patient information and consent

Some patients may be haemodynamically unstable and unable to understand; communicate with family members if present.

### How do I explain this procedure?

“You are having a very serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Your body is overreacting to a harmless substance, such as bee venom or peanuts, which we call an allergen. Your immune cells react to it as though it is a threat, releasing a flood of chemicals such as histamine. This flooding can cause you to go into shock, lowering your blood pressure and/or narrowing your airways. I’m going to give you emergency medication to counteract the reaction.”

### What can my patient expect?

“I’m going to give you an injection, some medication through a drip, and I might give you oxygen or medication through a mask. We will also keep you connected to monitors to show how you are doing. We will need to keep you in hospital for at least 4-6 hours to prevent flare-ups.”

### What is my patient’s role?

“Although anaphylaxis is frightening, try to stay calm and follow my instructions. Tell me how you’re doing and if you’re feeling better or worse. When it’s time to discharge you, we need to talk about a home management plan for your allergies.”

## Preparation

Anaphylaxis management is an emergency procedure. Always:

## Site & Positioning

The patient should be supine or semi-recumbent on a firm surface. If hypotensive, raise the legs. Ensure space behind the head of the bed for staff to administer rescue breaths if the patient deteriorates.

## Procedure

Follow medical asepsis with non-sterile gloves.

## Troubleshooting

When can I discharge this patient?

Keep in casualty 4-6 hours after resuscitation and discharge only if clinically stable.

## Risks

## References