Medical Training AISkin signs (hives, swelling of lips or tongue) plus trouble breathing, wheeze, hoarse voice, dizziness, fainting or vomiting after a trigger.
Call 911 immediately. Anaphylaxis can worsen within minutes.
If the person has an epinephrine auto-injector, help them use it in the outer thigh, through clothing if needed, per its instructions.
Lay them flat with legs raised; sit them up only if breathing is the main problem. Do not let them stand or walk.
Stay with them. If symptoms do not improve, a second dose may be needed per the device instructions and local protocol.
If they stop breathing or have no pulse, start CPR and use an AED.
- Antihistamines do not treat anaphylaxis; they are only an adjunct.
- Anyone who received epinephrine needs emergency evaluation, even if they feel better.
Source: MedlinePlus: Anaphylaxis (public domain). Follow your local protocols and current guidelines; this guide is a memory aid for trained people, not a substitute for training.
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