Question

Discuss what symptoms are associated with anaphylactic shock and how the nurse differentiates these from other conditions or issues. What steps should be taken if the nurse suspects anaphylactic shock?

Answer 1

Anaphylactic shock

Anaphylactic shock is a severe and rapid systemic allergic reaction to an allergen, constricting the trachea and generalized vasodilation.

Symptoms associated with Anaphylactic shock

* skin reactions: rashes, hives, itching, flushed skin, angioedema

* wheezing, feeling of a lump in the throat, difficulty in breathing, difficulty in swallowing

* abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea

* swollen lips or tongue

* sneezing and running nose

* week pulse and hypotension

* dizziness, confusion or weakness

Differentiate Anaphylactic shock from other conditions:

A nurse has to know the difference between anaphylactic shock and other conditions that may mimic anaphylactic shock such as , asthma attacks, panic attacks, syncope, urticaria etc.

* A nurse has to know the symptoms of anaphylactic shock ( listed above) , that will help her to identify the condition .

* Anaphylactic reactions include multiple system symptoms such as skin, respiratory etc. Other condition may confine to one area.

* Assessment of history and occurrence details can help the nurse to identify anaphylaxis condition.

* some medications, insect stings, certain vaccines , hormones, food items may cause anaphylactic reaction in hypersensitive individuals. Collect the details regarding the causative factors for sudden reactions ( consumption of alcohol, certain food or medication) may reveal the episode of allergic reactions.

Steps to be taken

* Assess the patient for the symptoms of anaphylactic shock and check the vital signs

* Announce " code blue " and location of patient ( call 911 for emergency support, and if the client is somewhere other than hospital setting.

* make the patient lie down with legs elevated

* Disconnect the client from allergen or remove the allergen , if incase the client is still with allergen. Example: medications

* Supportive therapy: Epinephrine injection ( to control anaphylactic reactions)

* Oxygen administration

* Assess for blood pressure and oxygen saturation.

* Second dose of Epinephrine, if the vital signs are not imprved after 10 minutes.

* Initiate I .V with normal saline.