YMCA Lifeguard Practice Test

What is the recommended first step when dealing with severe allergic reactions?

1. Call for help immediately

2. Administer oral medication

3. Use an epinephrine auto-injector

4. Monitor vital signs

The correct answer is: Use an epinephrine auto-injector

The recommended first step when dealing with severe allergic reactions is to use an epinephrine auto-injector. This is crucial because severe allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis, can escalate rapidly and become life-threatening. Epinephrine is a life-saving medication that works quickly to reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing, swelling, and a drop in blood pressure. Using an epinephrine auto-injector helps to stabilize the individual by constricting blood vessels, which increases blood pressure, and relaxing airway muscles, thus improving breathing. Immediate administration of this medication is essential to effectively manage the reaction and buy time until emergency medical help arrives. While calling for help, administering oral medication, and monitoring vital signs are important in a broader emergency response context, they do not provide the immediate relief that epinephrine offers in cases of severe allergic reactions. Timely intervention with an auto-injector is critical in preventing serious complications or death.