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Chapters	CE Credits	Validity	Cost	Duration	ECC	Exam Attempts	Wallet Card
13	2.0	2 Years	$14.95	1-2 Hrs	Compliant	Unlimited	Download/Print/Mail

Chapters13
CE Credits2.0
Validity2 Years
Cost$14.95
Duration1-2 Hrs
ECCCompliant
Exam AttemptsUnlimited
Wallet CardDownload/Print/Mail

Chapter 7: Allergy Emergencies

Definition

An allergy occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to a substance (called an allergen) that is usually harmless. An allergy emergency can happen when someone is exposed to that allergen.

Allergic reactions can become serious very quickly if not treated.

Common Causes

People may be allergic to:

Animal dander (cats, dogs)
Ant bites
Bee or wasp stings
Certain foods (such as peanuts, eggs, chocolate)
Medications (such as penicillin)
Pollen, dust, or mold
Certain plants or chemicals

Signs and Symptoms

Watch for:

Itchy skin
Rash, hives, or redness
Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
Trouble breathing
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain
Stuffy nose or sneezing
Signs of shock (pale skin, weakness, confusion)

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen within seconds or minutes after exposure to an allergen.

It may cause:

Severe trouble breathing
Airway swelling
A drop in blood pressure
Shock

Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical treatment, including epinephrine and emergency medical care.

First Aid Actions

Check the scene for safety.
Call 9-1-1 immediately.
Get a First Aid kit if available.
If the person has a prescribed epinephrine auto-injector, help them use it.
- If they are able, they should self-administer.
- If you are trained and permitted to assist, ask for consent and administer it.
- After injection, hold in place as directed by the device and note the time it was given.
Stay with the person and monitor breathing.
If the person becomes unresponsive, begin CPR (or Hands-Only CPR if you are not trained in rescue breaths).