NURS 6521 Pharmacotherapeutics for advanced practices

NURS 6521 Pharmacotherapeutics for advanced practices

Anaphylaxis is an acute, potenTally fatal, mulT-organ system reacTon caused by the release of chemical mediators from mast cells and basophils. (Kemp, 2002) ±he classic form involves prior sensiTzaTon to an allergen with later re-exposure, producing symptoms via an immunologic mechanism. ±he American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, released pracTce parameters that recommend that paTents with signs of anaphylaxis should receive epinephrine in the antero-lateral thigh as Frst-line treatment in the emergency department. (Alrasbi, 2007) Anaphylaxis is very likely if any of these three criteria are met: 1. Acute onset of illness with involvement of skin and/or mucosa accompanied by either respiratory compromise, falling blood pressure, or end-organ dysfuncTon; 2. ±wo or more of the following symptoms occurring rapidly a²er exposure to the likely allergen: involvement of skin and/or mucosa, signs of respiratory compromise, falling blood pressure