Which statement best describes the field management for a patient with a suspected allergic reaction to an antibiotic, who presents with a rash and wheezing?

Which statement best describes the field management for a patient with a suspected allergic reaction to an antibiotic, who presents with a rash and wheezing?

• A. Administer epinephrine and rush to hospital
• B. Observe on scene and delay transport
• C. Contact medical control if needed, transport the patient, and monitor for deterioration
• D. Discontinue oxygen and discharge the patient

Answer: (C)

When a patient shows signs of an allergic reaction with bronchospasm (rash and wheezing), the priority is to ensure airway and breathing while getting to definitive care. The best on-scene plan is to contact medical control if needed to guide treatment, transport the patient promptly, and continuously monitor for any signs of deterioration. This approach keeps the patient safe in case the reaction progresses and allows for medications like epinephrine to be given under guidance, rather than delaying transport or discharging the patient. Discontinuing oxygen or delaying transport would risk airway compromise, and giving medications without authorization can be inappropriate in some protocols.

When a patient shows signs of an allergic reaction with bronchospasm (rash and wheezing), the priority is to ensure airway and breathing while getting to definitive care. The best on-scene plan is to contact medical control if needed to guide treatment, transport the patient promptly, and continuously monitor for any signs of deterioration. This approach keeps the patient safe in case the reaction progresses and allows for medications like epinephrine to be given under guidance, rather than delaying transport or discharging the patient. Discontinuing oxygen or delaying transport would risk airway compromise, and giving medications without authorization can be inappropriate in some protocols.