Final answer:
The priority intervention for a patient experiencing severe respiratory distress and faintness due to a bee sting is to administer epinephrine (Adrenalin) first. It is the immediate treatment for anaphylactic shock and is critical for increasing blood pressure, improving breathing, and reducing swelling of the throat.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient experiences severe respiratory distress and faintness due to a bee sting, the priority intervention is to administer epinephrine (Adrenalin) first. This is because epinephrine is used to counteract the effects of anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening. Anaphylaxis is a severe systemic allergic reaction that can lead to a drop in blood pressure and swelling of the throat, which can obstruct breathing and lead to suffocation if not treated immediately. By administering epinephrine, we aim to constrict blood vessels to increase blood pressure, relax smooth muscles in the lungs to reduce wheezing and improve breathing, regulate heart rate, and reduce swelling.
Following the administration of epinephrine, additional treatments such as antihistamines like Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and corticosteroids like Dexamethasone (Decadron) may be given to treat ongoing symptoms and prevent potential late-phase reactions. However, these are secondary to the initial and urgent administration of epinephrine. A Normal saline infusion might also be used to maintain adequate circulation but again would follow the administration of epinephrine.