Sanjay is an EMR called to help a patient who has been stung by a bee during a community softball game. The patient’s husband rushes to meet Sanjay, explaining that his wife is allergic to bees and that she has had anaphylaxis in the past after being stung. Sanjay quickly assesses the patient, noting that her throat is swollen shut. He asks if she carries an epinephrine auto-injector with her. As he begins to prepare a nonrebreather mask to administer oxygen, he encourages the patient to use the epinephrine auto-injector. She can position the injector near her thigh and administer a dose. Sanjay has her keep the epinephrine auto-injector in place for 10 seconds. Explain what Sanjay should do for the patient after she has used her epinephrine auto-injector.

Question

He should check her airway again, and if it has not opened, he should encourage her to use the epinephrine auto-injector once more.

He should help her lie down because her heart rate is probably increasing and watch for vomiting as he administers high-flow oxygen.

He should encourage her to stand up and walk around in order to get the medicine flowing throughout her bloodstream.

He should see if she is able to sit up on her own and, if so, discontinue the oxygen treatment but watch for nausea and vomiting.

Answer 1

After the patient has used her epinephrine auto-injector, Sanjay should help her lie down because her heart rate is probably increasing, and it is important to keep her calm and in a position that can aid in circulation. He should continue to monitor her airway and watch for signs of nausea or vomiting, as these can occur during anaphylaxis. Since the patient is experiencing severe allergic reactions and has a swollen throat, it's crucial to administer high-flow oxygen to ensure adequate oxygenation.

In summary, the best approach would be to help her lie down, administer high-flow oxygen while observing for any changes in her condition, and be prepared to respond to any further deterioration.