Anaphylaxis: assessing patients with allergies.
Adam's assessment identified the presence of the most severe symptoms of anaphylaxis, respiratory difficulty and shock. The actions of the ambulance crew ensured that on arrival at the ED, Adam's condition was improving. However, it was found that despite the interventions already undertaken, Adam was suffering significant respiratory difficulty due to the cascade of events that occur in anaphylaxis. Adam was seen on arrival and the ALSG's (2005) assessment method proved to be the most effective to ensure that Adam was assessed and treated rapidly. The most beneficial aspect of this assignment is that the author can return to practice with this knowledge and will be more confident when faced with other patients with anaphylaxis. Understanding the underlying processes and symptoms has decreased the fear of 'not knowing' and will aid accurate assessment. It will also provide a good basis for educating parents of affected children and members of nursing teams.
Tsang
Katherine
K
Paediatric Emergency Department, St. Peter's Hospital, Surrey.
D000293:Adolescent; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D001249:Asthma / Q000150:complications; D016529:Emergency Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D005512:Food Hypersensitivity / Q000150:complications; D015600:Glasgow Coma Scale; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008487:Medical History Taking / Q000379:methods; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D010371:Pediatric Nursing / Q000379:methods; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology; D014218:Triage / Q000379:methods