Answer :
The first step caregivers should take if a child has a severe allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting and has an EpiPen is to immediately administer epinephrine. Epinephrine counteracts the symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as a drop in blood pressure and airway swelling. Seeking medical attention promptly after the injection is crucial. Therefore, the correct option is d. Immediately administer epinephrine.
If a child is having a severe allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting and has an EpiPen assigned to them, it is crucial to immediately administer epinephrine. In the case of emergency systemic anaphylaxis—a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by symptoms such as a severe drop in blood pressure, difficulties in breathing, and swelling of the tongue and throat—the rapid administration of epinephrine is lifesaving.
Individuals with known severe allergies are often prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), which they should carry at all times. Upon exposure to the allergen and the onset of anaphylaxis, a caregiver or the individual themselves should use the auto-injector immediately to inject epinephrine. This quickly works to constrict blood vessels, increase blood pressure, relax the airway muscles, and reduce swelling, which may block the airways.
After administering an epinephrine shot, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Follow-up treatments might include antihistamines and slow-acting corticosteroids to manage potential late-phase reactions. However, the immediate priority is the epinephrine injection to control the initial severe reaction. Therefore, the correct option is d. Immediately administer epinephrine.
Answer:
Option D, immediately administer epinephrine
Explanation:
During severe allergic reactions, a condition known as anaphylaxis, one of the biggest concerns is that the patient's airway will begin to constrict which not only means they would not be able to swallow diphenhydramine (Benadryl) if it were offered to them, but also they will not be able to breathe. Without being able to breathe, their heart, brain, and lungs will be cut off from the necessary oxygen they need to function properly, and the child could inevitably die.
By administering the epinephrine (EpiPen), the airway constriction will not be a barrier to treatment. This is because EpiPens are designed to deliver the anaphylaxis medication intramuscularly; that is, by pressing the orange tip hard against a large muscle, a needle will automatically puncture the skin, enter said muscle, and quickly give the dose of medication to the person experiencing the allergic reaction.
Ice packs on the affected area and simply waiting will only allow the child's anaphylaxis to prolong and likely worsen. So their assigned EpiPen should be administered immediately, option D.
