Question

You are called to the scene of a 20-year-old female relaxing on the deck of her fishing boat. She had become short of breath and is having difficulty breathing. Her face and arms are itchy.

a. Anaphylaxis
b. Heat exhaustion
c. Carbon monoxide poisoning
d. Panic attack

Answer 1

The subject of this question is anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. The most likely answer is anaphylaxis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject of this question is anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. Anaphylaxis occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to an allergen, causing a release of histamines that can lead to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, itching, and a drop in blood pressure. In this case, the symptoms described - shortness of breath, itchiness, and difficulty breathing - are consistent with anaphylaxis. Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis can be fatal. Epinephrine is commonly used to counteract the effects of anaphylaxis by increasing blood pressure, relaxing smooth muscles in the lungs, and reducing swelling. Therefore, based on the symptoms and the description provided, the most likely answer to the question is a. Anaphylaxis.