Lesson Objective for Anaphylaxis Nursing Care:

• Recognition of Anaphylactic Triggers:
  • Identify and educate individuals at risk of anaphylaxis about common triggers, including food allergens, insect stings, medications, and latex, to facilitate early recognition and prevention.
• Emergency Response Preparedness:
  • Equip healthcare providers, individuals at risk, and caregivers with the knowledge and skills necessary for prompt and effective emergency response to anaphylactic reactions, including the administration of epinephrine.
• Prevention and Allergen Avoidance:
  • Implement strategies to prevent anaphylactic episodes by educating individuals on allergen avoidance, reading food labels, and ensuring the availability of auto-injectable epinephrine at all times.
• Individualized Anaphylaxis Action Plan:
  • Collaborate with individuals at risk and their healthcare providers to develop individualized anaphylaxis action plans outlining specific steps to take in the event of an allergic reaction, including when to use epinephrine and when to seek emergency medical assistance.
• Community Education and Awareness:
  • Raise awareness about anaphylaxis within the community by providing education on recognizing symptoms, administering epinephrine, and fostering a supportive environment for individuals at risk.

Pathophysiology of Anaphylaxis:

• Immediate Immune Response:
  • Anaphylaxis is a rapid and severe allergic reaction triggered by the immune system’s exaggerated response to an allergen. It involves the activation of mast cells and basophils, leading to the release of histamine and other mediators.
• Histamine Release:
  • Mast cells and basophils release histamine, prostaglandins, and other inflammatory substances. Histamine causes vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and smooth muscle contraction, contributing to the characteristic symptoms of anaphylaxis.
• Systemic Vasodilation:
  • The release of vasodilatory mediators results in widespread vasodilation, leading to a rapid drop in blood pressure (hypotension). This can cause inadequate perfusion of vital organs and tissues.
• Bronchoconstriction:
  • Anaphylaxis often involves bronchoconstriction, causing respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Severe bronchoconstriction can lead to respiratory failure.
• Multi-organ Involvement:
  • Anaphylaxis can affect multiple organ systems, leading to symptoms ranging from skin manifestations (hives, itching) and gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting) to cardiovascular collapse. The rapid progression of symptoms requires immediate intervention to prevent life-threatening complications.

Etiology of Anaphylaxis:

• Allergen Exposure:
  • Anaphylaxis is primarily triggered by exposure to specific allergens that the individual’s immune system recognizes as harmful. Common allergens include certain foods (e.g., peanuts, shellfish), insect stings (e.g., bees, wasps), medications (e.g., antibiotics, NSAIDs), and latex.
• Previous Sensitization:
  • Individuals who have previously been sensitized to an allergen through exposure may develop an exaggerated immune response upon subsequent exposure. Sensitization involves the production of specific antibodies, such as immunoglobulin E (IgE), in response to the allergen.
• Cross-Reactivity:
  • Cross-reactivity can occur when proteins in different allergens share similar structures. For example, someone allergic to birch pollen may experience an allergic reaction to certain fruits due to cross-reactivity.
• Inherited Predisposition:
  • Genetic factors may contribute to an individual’s predisposition to allergies and anaphylaxis. A family history of allergies or atopic conditions can increase the likelihood of developing an allergic response.
• Idiopathic Cases:
  • In some cases, the cause of anaphylaxis may remain unknown (idiopathic). Idiopathic anaphylaxis occurs when an individual experiences severe allergic reactions without an identified trigger, making it challenging to predict and prevent.

Desired Outcome for Anaphylaxis Nursing Care:

• Rapid Symptom Resolution:
  • The immediate and primary goal is the prompt resolution of anaphylactic symptoms, including respiratory distress, skin manifestations, and cardiovascular instability, through the administration of epinephrine and other appropriate interventions.
• Restoration of Hemodynamic Stability:
  • Achieve and maintain hemodynamic stability by addressing hypotension and preventing cardiovascular collapse. Administer fluids and vasoactive medications as needed to restore adequate perfusion to vital organs.
• Prevention of Recurrence:
  • Implement measures to prevent the recurrence of anaphylaxis by identifying and avoiding specific allergens, educating individuals at risk and their caregivers, and ensuring the availability and proper use of emergency medications, such as epinephrine auto-injectors.
• Optimal Respiratory Function:
  • Ensure optimal respiratory function by alleviating bronchoconstriction and addressing any respiratory distress. Continuous monitoring and appropriate interventions, including bronchodilators, may be necessary to maintain clear airways.
• Psychosocial Support and Education:
  • Provide psychosocial support and education to individuals at risk and their caregivers to reduce anxiety, improve quality of life, and enhance overall well-being. Education should focus on recognizing early symptoms, using emergency medications, and seeking prompt medical attention.

Anaphylaxis Nursing Care Plan

Nursing Assessment for Anaphylaxis:

• Initial Assessment:
  • Conduct a rapid and comprehensive initial assessment, including airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs). Prioritize interventions based on the severity of symptoms and potential life-threatening complications.
• Identify Triggers and Allergens:
  • Gather information about the individual’s medical history and known allergens. Identify potential triggers, including specific foods, insect stings, medications, or environmental factors.
• Assess Respiratory Status:
  • Monitor respiratory status closely for signs of bronchoconstriction, wheezing, shortness of breath, or respiratory distress. Evaluate lung sounds and oxygen saturation.
• Evaluate Cardiovascular Function:
  • Assess cardiovascular status, including blood pressure, heart rate, and peripheral perfusion. Identify signs of hypotension, tachycardia, or other cardiovascular instability.
• Skin Examination:
  • Examine the skin for allergic reactions, including hives (urticaria), redness, swelling (angioedema), and itching. Document the distribution and progression of skin manifestations.
• Neurological Assessment:
  • Conduct a neurological assessment to detect any changes in consciousness, confusion, or neurological deficits. These may indicate inadequate perfusion to the brain.
• Gastrointestinal Assessment:
  • Assess the gastrointestinal system for symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, which may indicate systemic involvement.
• Psychosocial Assessment:
  • Consider the psychosocial impact of anaphylaxis, including anxiety and fear associated with future allergic reactions. Evaluate the individual’s and caregivers’ understanding of the condition and their ability to manage emergency situations.
• Follow-Up Assessment:
  • Perform ongoing assessments to monitor the individual’s response to interventions, identify any delayed or recurrent symptoms, and address evolving needs during recovery.

Implementation for Anaphylaxis Nursing Care:

• Administer Epinephrine Promptly:
  • Administer epinephrine intramuscularly as the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Ensure proper dosage based on the individual’s weight and severity of symptoms. Repeat as necessary, following established protocols.
• Establish and Maintain Airway:
  • Ensure a patent airway by positioning the individual appropriately and, if necessary, providing airway support with interventions such as chin lift, jaw thrust, or the insertion of an oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway.
• Provide Oxygen Support:
  • Administer supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels. Monitor respiratory status continuously and be prepared to escalate interventions, including advanced airway management.
• Initiate Intravenous Access:
  • Establish intravenous (IV) access to administer fluids and medications. Administer isotonic crystalloid solutions to address hypotension and improve perfusion to vital organs.
• Administer Additional Medications:
  • Depending on the severity of symptoms, antihistamines for skin manifestations, bronchodilators for bronchoconstriction, and corticosteroids to address inflammation may be indicated. Continuously monitor vital signs and response to interventions.
• Educate Patient on Preventing Future Episodes:
  • Collaborate with the healthcare team to determine trigger for anaphylaxis. Referral to an allergist may be necessary. Educate the patient on avoiding triggers and how to self-administer epinephrine, if prescribed.

Nursing Interventions and Rationales

• Administer epinephrine or EpiPen autoinjector if available

• Remove antigen/causative allergen

• Initiate IV access and maintain patency

• Monitor airway and oxygenation status; prepare for intubation or tracheostomy if necessary to maintain airway

• Perform CPR if necessary

• Position patient upright in high-Fowler’s position if conscious

• Monitor vital signs; assess for signs of shock

• Administer medications as appropriate
  • Epinephrine
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Albuterol

• Educate patient regarding avoidance of allergens; how to use EpiPen

References

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anaphylaxis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351468
• https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/allergies/anaphylaxis
• https://www.webmd.com/allergies/video/most-common-triggers
• https://online.epocrates.com/diseases/50124/Anaphylaxis/Etiology