Basic Allergic Reaction Management: EMS Management of Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis

This foundational course prepares EMS providers to recognize and manage mild, moderate, and severe allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylaxis. Allergic emergencies can progress rapidly, and early recognition is critical to preventing airway compromise, circulatory collapse, and death. This course emphasizes prompt assessment, identification of systemic involvement, and decisive intervention in accordance with Texas EMS protocols.

Participants will review the underlying immune response responsible for allergic reactions, including the role of IgE and histamine release, and how these mechanisms translate into real-world clinical findings. The course explores common allergen exposures, clinical presentation patterns, and the differentiation between localized reactions and systemic anaphylaxis.

Special focus is placed on airway assessment, early warning signs of deterioration, appropriate epinephrine dosing and administration (including auto-injector and draw-up techniques), adjunctive therapies, and continuous reassessment. BLS and ALS treatment considerations are discussed to ensure providers understand both foundational management and appropriate escalation.

Upon completion, Texas EMS providers will be better equipped to make timely treatment decisions, administer life-saving interventions confidently, and ensure safe transport and monitoring for patients experiencing allergic emergencies.