New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What is the proper response to a severe allergic reaction?

1. Administer oxygen

2. Provide fluids

3. Use an EpiPen if available

4. Monitor vital signs

The correct answer is: Use an EpiPen if available

The proper response to a severe allergic reaction, often referred to as anaphylaxis, is to use an EpiPen if it is available. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the immune system reacts dramatically to an allergen, leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, hives, and a drop in blood pressure. The EpiPen contains epinephrine, which is a medication that counteracts the severe symptoms of an allergic reaction. It works by narrowing blood vessels, increasing blood pressure, and opening airways in the lungs, which are all critical actions needed to stabilize a patient experiencing anaphylaxis. Administering epinephrine as soon as possible is essential for improving the chances of a positive outcome. While administering oxygen, providing fluids, and monitoring vital signs are important steps in managing a patient's overall care, they are not the immediate priorities in the case of a severe allergic reaction. Oxygen may be required subsequently if the patient is experiencing respiratory distress, fluids can be important for stabilizing blood pressure later on, and monitoring vital signs helps assess the patient’s condition throughout the emergency. However, the initial and most crucial intervention in anaphylaxis is the timely administration of epinephrine.