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

Ans) The first signs of an anaphylactic reaction may look like typical allergy symptoms: a runny nose or a skin rash. But within about 30 minutes, more serious signs appear.

There is usually more than one of these:

Coughing; wheezing; and pain, itching, or tightness in your chest
Fainting, dizziness, confusion, or weakness
Hives; a rash; and itchy, swollen, or red skin
Runny or stuffy nose and sneezing
Shortness of breath or trouble breathing and rapid heartbeat
Swollen or itchy lips or tongue
Swollen or itchy throat, hoarse voice, trouble swallowing, tightness in your throat
Vomiting, diarrhea, or cramps
Weak pulse, paleness
Some people also remember feeling a "sense of doom” right before the attack.

As many as 1 out of every 5 people may have a second anaphylactic reaction within 12 hours of the first. This is called a biphasic anaphylaxis.

Prompt treatment of anaphylaxis is critical, with subcutaneous or intramuscular epinephrine and intravenous fluids remaining the mainstay of management. Adjunctive measures include airway protection, antihistamines, steroids, and beta agonists.