Final answer:
A bolus of magnesium is avoided to prevent severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, which can lead to a life-threatening condition characterized by a drop in blood pressure and difficulty in breathing. Epinephrine is used to treat anaphylaxis.
Step-by-step explanation:
We avoid a bolus of magnesium (Mg) due to the potential risk of allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, which are severe immune system responses to antigens that the body mistakenly identifies as harmful. While most allergens are harmless, some individuals can develop severe allergies upon exposure to certain substances, which can lead to a life-threatening condition known as anaphylactic shock.
This is characterized by systemic mast cell degranulation, which causes a sharp drop in blood pressure and the contraction of bronchial smooth muscle, severely impacting breathing. In anaphylaxis, treatments like epinephrine are crucial as they work to raise blood pressure and relax bronchial smooth muscles, potentially saving the patient's life. Therefore, administering a bolus of any medication, including magnesium, should be approached with caution to prevent allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.