Treatment Goals
› Assist With Resuscitation, as Appropriate, and Reduce Risk for Complications
• Monitor for respiratory distress and cardiac arrhythmias , and assist with resuscitation, as appropriate; maintain patent airway; provide supplemental oxygen, assist with intubation, and maintain mechanical ventilation, as ordered
• Obtain intravenous access and infuse I.V. fluids as prescribed (e.g., normal saline, Ringer’s lactate solution) to maintain electrolyte balance and restore circulating fluids; place patient in supine position (or on left side if pregnant) to improve perfusion to vital organs
• Administer prescribed medications, as ordered, including the following:
–Epinephrine is the first-line treatment used to decrease the allergic response and improve respiratory function. (Note: The effectiveness of epinephrine is decreased in patients who also take beta blockers. Glucagon may be given to those taking beta blockers to alleviate epinephrine resistance
–Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol) may be ordered to treat bronchospasm
–Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydrAMINE) are often effective in relieving skin discomfort and improving respiratory function
–DOP amine is used to treat hypotension
–Atropine may be ordered to treat bradycardia
–Corticosteroids (e.g., methylPREDNISolone) may be ordered to reduce residual inflammation after immediate symptoms have abated
• Frequently monitor vital signs, oxygen levels, telemetry, cardiac output, central venous pressure, level of consciousness, skin integrity, urinary output, and laboratory test values
› Promote Emotional Well-Being and Educate
• If possible, explain treatment to patient/family members; educate and encourage patient to ask questions and express feelings; when appropriate, provide written information on anaphylactic shock, including treatment options and their associated risks and benefits
• Assess anxiety level of the patient; if appropriate, provide distraction or teach relaxation techniques