How to Give Emergency First Aid for Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is an immediate and severe allergic reaction to something ingested or injected and it normally happens to people who have allergies or asthma. People suffering from anaphylaxis usually display certain symptoms such as wheezing, a rash, hives or blisters, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting and swelling. This situation requires immediate attention because it is life-threatening. There are a few things that you can do in order to administer emergency first aid to someone experiencing anaphylaxis.
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Things You'll Need
- Medication (epinephrine, diphenhydramine, inhaled bronchodilator)
- Blanket
Instructions
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1
Call for help. You should immediately call 911 so that an emergency medical team can get there as soon as possible. Try to remain calm and do not panic.
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Identify the reason for the allergic reaction and try preventing the person from receiving further exposure to it. Anaphylaxis normally occurs from allergens such as insect venom, pollen, latex and certain foods and medications (for example, penicillin).
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Check to see if the person has any special medications such as epinephrine, diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and an inhaled bronchodilator (such as albuterol). These drugs can help reverse the anaphylaxis.
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Administer the medication to the victim. Inject the person with a pre-measured dosage of epinephrine (with an auto-injector) by placing the instrument against the thigh and holding it in place for several seconds. Gently rub the injection site for approximately 10 seconds. Next, give the victim 1 to 2 tablets or capsules of diphenhydramine (if he is able to swallow). Lastly, let the victim use the inhaled bronchodilator (if one is available).
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Help the person lie down on her back and make sure that she lies as still as possible. Be sure to turn the victim on her side if she is bleeding or vomiting from the mouth. Also, loosen any tight clothing on the person and try to make her comfortable. Place the victim’s feet high above her head ( to increase blood flow to the brain) and be sure to place a blanket over her.
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Verify whether or he is still breathing. If there are no signs of breathing, movement, or a pulse, immediately begin doing CPR on the victim. If you do not know how to perform CPR, check to see if there is someone around you who knows how to do it.
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Step away from the victim when the medical team arrives. The medical team can take over and you should give them plenty of room to do their job. Be sure to tell the team members exactly what happened and inform them of any medications that you gave the victim.
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Tips & Warnings
If left untreated, anaphylaxis can cause shock, respiratory and cardiac failure and death.
