Sudden Illness and Allergies Flashcards

What is the FIRST step when you suspect someone is having a heart attack?

Answer: Call 911 immediately, then have them rest

Calling 911 immediately is the priority; EMS can begin life-saving treatment en route while you keep the person calm and resting.

A child develops hives, swollen lips, and difficulty breathing after eating a peanut butter cookie. This is MOST likely:

Answer: Anaphylaxis requiring immediate epinephrine

Hives, facial swelling, and difficulty breathing together indicate anaphylaxis, a severe life-threatening allergic reaction requiring epinephrine.

After using an epinephrine auto-injector, what is the next critical action?

Answer: Call 911 because epinephrine effects are temporary

Epinephrine effects last only 15-20 minutes and symptoms can return, so 911 must be called even after successful initial treatment.

Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of anaphylaxis?

Answer: Gradual onset over several hours

Anaphylaxis is characterized by rapid onset, typically within minutes of allergen exposure, not gradual development over hours.

A person says they feel like they might faint and their skin looks pale and sweaty. You should:

Answer: Help them sit or lie down and elevate their legs if possible

Sitting or lying down with legs elevated increases blood flow to the brain and can prevent fainting from worsening.

When a person faints and recovers consciousness, you should:

Answer: Have them lie still for a few minutes before sitting up slowly

After fainting, the person should lie still briefly then sit up slowly to prevent a second fainting episode from orthostatic hypotension.

Which situation requires you to call 911 even if the person seems to be improving?

Answer: A first seizure episode even if the person is now conscious

A first-time seizure requires emergency evaluation even if the person recovers, as it may indicate a serious underlying condition.