Anaphylaxis in Level 3 First Aid

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate recognition and treatment. As a first aid attendant with OFA Level 3 certification, knowing how to assess, manage, and respond to an anaphylactic emergency is critical. This guide outlines the WorkSafeBC-approved approach to handling anaphylaxis in the workplace, ensuring safety and rapid intervention.

What is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction that affects multiple body systems, including the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. It can develop within minutes of exposure to an allergen, with rapid and unpredictable severity.

Common causes of anaphylaxis include:

• Insect stings (bees, wasps, hornets)
• Food allergies (nuts, shellfish, dairy, eggs)
• Medications (antibiotics, pain relievers)
• Latex (gloves, balloons, medical equipment)
• Blood transfusions or certain medical treatments

Recognizing the Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Early recognition is key to successful treatment. A person experiencing anaphylaxis may present one or more of the following symptoms:

Skin Reactions

• Hives (urticaria) – blotchy, raised, red, itchy patches on the skin
• Swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue
• Flushing or pale skin

Respiratory Distress

• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Tightness in the throat or chest
• Coughing or choking sensation

Cardiovascular Symptoms

• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid, weak, or irregular pulse
• Shock (cold, clammy skin, low blood pressure)

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Abdominal cramps, nausea, or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Other Signs

• Confusion, anxiety, or restlessness
• A sense of impending doom

Scene Assessment and Initial Actions

Before providing first aid, assess the safety of the scene to ensure no further exposure to the allergen. If the reaction was caused by an insect sting or chemical exposure, remove the source if possible. Stay calm and reassure the worker, as anxiety can worsen symptoms.

If the worker is conscious, ask if they have a known allergy and whether they carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®).

Managing Anaphylaxis as an OFA Level 3 Attendant

Ensure an Open Airway

• If the worker is conscious, encourage them to sit upright to make breathing easier.
• If the worker is unresponsive, place them in the recovery position to maintain an open airway.
• Be prepared for airway swelling that may obstruct breathing.

Assist with an Epinephrine Auto-Injector

• Most individuals with severe allergies carry an EpiPen® or other auto-injector.
• Check the expiration date and confirm the medication is not discolored or compromised.
• Remove the safety cap and hold the injector at a 90-degree angle to the outer thigh.
• Press firmly against the thigh until a click is heard and hold for 10 seconds.
• Massage the injection site for several seconds to aid absorption.
• If symptoms persist after 5 minutes, a second dose may be required.

Note: If the worker is unresponsive and showing signs of anaphylactic shock, an OFA Level 3 attendant may administer epinephrine if:

• There is a known allergy history.
• The worker exhibits clear signs of anaphylaxis.
• No contraindications are present (e.g., heart conditions).

Administer Oxygen (If Trained)

If you are trained and authorized, provide high-flow oxygen at 10–15 LPM using a non-rebreather mask. This can help counteract respiratory distress and circulatory shock.

Monitor for Shock

• Keep the worker warm and still to prevent worsening shock.
• If possible, elevate the worker’s legs to maintain circulation.
• Watch for signs of deteriorating consciousness, labored breathing, or weak pulse.

Transport and Emergency Medical Care

Anaphylaxis always requires emergency medical care. Even if symptoms improve, a delayed secondary reaction (biphasic anaphylaxis) may occur. Call 911 or arrange for immediate transport to a medical facility.

While waiting for emergency responders:

• Reassess the worker every 5 minutes.
• Monitor their airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs).
• Be prepared to perform CPR if the worker stops breathing or loses consciousness.

CPR and AED Use (If Necessary)

If the worker is unresponsive and not breathing normally:

1. Start CPR immediately (30 compressions, 2 breaths).
2. Use an AED as soon as one is available.
3. Continue until the worker shows signs of life or professional medical personnel take over.

Documentation and Workplace Follow-Up

As an OFA Level 3 first aid attendant, it is crucial to properly document the event, including:

• Symptoms observed and the time of onset
• Actions taken (including epinephrine administration and oxygen therapy)
• Worker’s response to treatment
• Time of EMS arrival

A copy of the first aid report should be submitted to the workplace supervisor for incident review.

Additional Considerations for Workplace Safety

• Ensure workers with severe allergies have workplace emergency action plans in place.
• Train co-workers to recognize anaphylaxis and locate emergency epinephrine.
• Stock first aid rooms with oxygen and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Encourage medical identification bracelets for workers with known severe allergies.

Key Takeaways

✔ Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening medical emergency requiring immediate action.
✔ Administer epinephrine as soon as possible to prevent severe complications.
✔ Ensure an open airway and provide oxygen if trained.
✔ Monitor the worker’s condition and prepare for rapid transport.
✔ Anaphylaxis always requires emergency medical care, even if symptoms improve.

As a WorkSafeBC-certified OFA Level 3 first aid attendant in Vancouver, your ability to recognize and respond quickly to anaphylaxis can make the difference between life and death. Regular training and certification in first aid courses in Vancouver will ensure that you are fully prepared for any workplace emergency.

For professional OFA Level 3 Vancouver first aid training, consider Fundamental First Aid’s WorkSafeBC-approved courses to keep your skills up to date and workplace-ready. 🚑