Anaphylaxis

(1 hour, Basic or Intermediate level)
Objectives: To facilitate the EMT Basic or Intermediate in the recognition and treatment of anaphylactic shock, including the utilization of epinephrine auto injector devices.

This class will be organized to assist the EMT Basic or Intermediate to recognize and properly treat the patient suffering from anaphylaxis. A combination of didactic and hands-on training will be used to reinforce the proper care for the anaphylactic patient.

  1. Introduction (10 minutes)
    1. Description of anaphylactic shock
    2. Possible causes
    3. Severity

  1. Recognition (10 minutes)
    1. Signs and Symptoms
    2. Patient History

  1. Treatment (15 minutes)
    1. MA State Prehospital Protocol 3.2-Anaphylaxis
    2. Maintenance of Patent Airway
    3. Other Treatment Considerations
      1. Elevation of lower extremities
      2. Maintenance of "normal" body temperature
      3. Keeping patient NPO
      4. Request for ALS
      5. Med Con
      6. Rapid transport

  1. Use of Auto-Injector Epinephrine Device ("Epi-Pen") (10 minutes)
    1. Review of MA State Prehospital Protocol 3.2 on use of epi-pen
      1. MedCon approval
      2. Monitoring of vital signs
      3. If MedCon ordered, administering 2nd dose
      4. MAST application if indicated
  1. Practical Session (15 minutes)
    1. Practice with Training pens
    2. Scenarios