Question

Epinephrine is indicated for patients with an allergic reaction when:

1) wheezing and hypotension are present.
2) the patient is anxious and tachycardic.
3) a paramedic is present at the scene.
4) the reaction produces severe urticaria.

Answer 1

Epinephrine is indicated for patients with an allergic reaction when they exhibit severe symptoms such as wheezing and hypotension indicative of anaphylactic shock. It is a critical emergency treatment to counteract anaphylaxis. Patients with severe allergies should carry epinephrine auto-injectors for immediate self-administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Epinephrine is indicated for patients with an allergic reaction when signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylactic shock, are present. Anaphylactic shock can include symptoms like wheezing and hypotension (low blood pressure), as well as other life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue and throat, and a drop in blood pressure. Epinephrine works by rapidly increasing blood pressure, relaxing bronchial smooth muscles to reduce wheezing, modulating heart rate, and reducing swelling, which are all critical reactions during anaphylaxis. This immediate intervention can be life-saving, and patients with severe allergies are often advised to carry epinephrine auto-injectors like the EpiPen® for self-administration in the event of anaphylaxis until medical help can be obtained.