Sudden Illness and Allergies Flashcards

Where is the correct injection site for an epinephrine auto-injector?

Answer: Outer thigh through clothing if necessary

The outer thigh (vastus lateralis) is the recommended injection site and can be given through clothing in an emergency.

A co-worker suddenly develops severe chest pain and shortness of breath. You ask if they are allergic to aspirin and they say no. What should you do?

Answer: Give them one regular aspirin (325mg) to chew while calling 911

For suspected heart attack, one regular aspirin chewed (not swallowed whole) can help prevent further clotting while waiting for EMS.

A person with diabetes tells you their blood sugar is low and hands you candy, then loses consciousness before eating it. What should you do?

Answer: Call 911 and do not give anything by mouth

An unconscious person should never receive anything by mouth due to choking risk; call 911 for IV glucose administration.

Which of the following describes the correct way to remove a bee stinger?

Answer: Scrape it out sideways with a flat rigid object like a credit card

Scraping sideways removes the stinger without squeezing the venom sac, which would inject more venom into the wound.

A person begins having a seizure while standing. Your FIRST action should be:

Answer: Gently lower them to the ground to prevent a fall injury

The immediate priority is preventing injury from falling by guiding the person to the ground before anything else.

Which of the following is a late sign of anaphylaxis indicating the situation is becoming critical?

Answer: Stridor (high-pitched breathing noise) and cyanosis

Stridor and cyanosis indicate severe airway swelling and oxygen deprivation, representing a critical, life-threatening stage of anaphylaxis.

How long should you hold an epinephrine auto-injector against the thigh after injection?

Answer: 10 seconds to ensure full delivery

Holding for 10 seconds ensures all the medication is delivered before removing the device.