Anaphylaxis First Aid
First Aid for Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a dangerous, life-threatening, allergic reaction that progresses in a rapid fashion.
All sorts of things can cause this allergic reaction, including:
- Foods, like shellfish and nuts
- Drugs, such penicillin or insulin
- Insect venom, like from bees
Anaphylaxis is a rapid allergic reaction, meaning it can occur within just a few minutes after the person is exposed to the allergen. An allergen is a substance that elicits an allergic response.
Signs and symptoms
- Skin reactions, including hives and itching and flushed or pale skin.
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Tingling mouth
- Constriction of the airways and a swollen tongue or throat
- Wheezing and trouble breathing.
- A weak and rapid pulse.
- Abdominal pain, Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
- Dizziness or fainting.
- Pale and floppy (young children)
If you note any of these, call 000 right away. Do not delay.
Ask the person if they carry an EpiPen or Anapen. This is an epinephrine autoinjector that is typically injected by pressing it firmly against the person’s thigh for around 4 seconds.
If the person is a known asthmatic, and having difficulty breathing, ALWAYS GIVE ADRENALINE AUTOINJECTOR FIRST, and then asthma reliever puffer if someone with known asthma and allergy to food, insects or medication has SUDDEN BREATHING DIFFICULTY (including wheeze, persistent cough or hoarse voice) even if there are no skin symptoms.
If anything, like vomit, is coming out of the person’s mouth, turn them to the side so they don’t choke.
Do not give them water or anything else to drink as they may choke on this as well.
1 LAY PERSON FLAT – do NOT allow them to stand or walk
• If unconscious or pregnant, place in recovery position
– on left side if pregnant, as shown below
• If breathing is difficult allow them to sit with legs outstretched
• Hold young children flat, not upright
2 GIVE ADRENALINE AUTOINJECTOR
3 Phone ambulance – 000 (AU)
4 Phone family/emergency contact
5 Further adrenaline may be given if no response after 5 minutes
6 Transfer person to hospital for at least 4 hours of observation
IF IN DOUBT GIVE ADRENALINE AUTOINJECTOR
Commence CPR at any time if person is unresponsive and not breathing normally
Learn about the management of Anaphylaxis with First Aid Oz Visit us at : https://www.firstaidoz.com.au/
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