Anaphylaxis
The theme of this assignment is to explore the complex medical condition, anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is potentially fatal. It is the clinical manifestation of a syndrome that represents the most severe allergic reaction affecting the systemic circulation and respiratory function (Resuscitation Council UK, 2005). Through a comprehensive examination of the symptoms displayed in the case study, a clear diagnosis will be recorded. Connections will be balanced between symptoms and the patient 's presenting condition. Physiological processes and mechanisms relating to the pathology will clearly explained through an in-depth discussion of disruptions to normal molecular, cellular, and organ functions that underlie the symptoms of the condition. Through debate and discussion, treatment will be deliberated in detail resulting in the provision of a gold standard, pre-hospital management plan.
Relationship Between Symptoms and Diagnosis
For the purpose of this assignment a paramedic working on a rapid response vehicle is called to a 46-year old female who is experiencing breathing difficulties. It is immediately apparent that the patient has a urticarial rash and a gross swelling to the lips, tongue and face. Whilst the patient is alert, it is clear that she is dyspenoeic. Primary observations confirm that the patient is tachycardic, tachypnoeic, hypoxic, and hypotensive. The patients’ blood glucose and temperature are within normal range. Due to the dyspnoea, it is
impossible to record a peak flow. Upon obtaining a thorough patient history, the paramedic discovers that the patient has just been prescribed Amoxicillin for a chest infection, she has no known allergies.
Whilst anaphylaxis seems likely, the initial differential diagnosis includes acute asthma, syncope and anxiety/panic attacks as many of the presenting symptoms are the same (Resuscitation Council 2006). For this reason, a more definitive guideline on rapidly diagnosing
Relationship Between Symptoms and Diagnosis
For the purpose of this assignment a paramedic working on a rapid response vehicle is called to a 46-year old female who is experiencing breathing difficulties. It is immediately apparent that the patient has a urticarial rash and a gross swelling to the lips, tongue and face. Whilst the patient is alert, it is clear that she is dyspenoeic. Primary observations confirm that the patient is tachycardic, tachypnoeic, hypoxic, and hypotensive. The patients’ blood glucose and temperature are within normal range. Due to the dyspnoea, it is
impossible to record a peak flow. Upon obtaining a thorough patient history, the paramedic discovers that the patient has just been prescribed Amoxicillin for a chest infection, she has no known allergies.
Whilst anaphylaxis seems likely, the initial differential diagnosis includes acute asthma, syncope and anxiety/panic attacks as many of the presenting symptoms are the same (Resuscitation Council 2006). For this reason, a more definitive guideline on rapidly diagnosing
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