In cases of anaphylaxis, which is the priority intervention?

In cases of anaphylaxis, the priority intervention is to give epinephrine. Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs quickly after exposure to an allergen. The administration of epinephrine is critical as it acts rapidly to counteract the severe symptoms associated with anaphylaxis, such as airway constriction, swelling, and hypotension.

Epinephrine works by relaxing the bronchial passages, improving airflow to the lungs, and constricting blood vessels to increase blood pressure. This immediate response can prevent progression to more severe complications, such as respiratory failure or cardiac arrest.

While other interventions like administering oxygen or elevating the legs can be important in the broader context of patient management, they do not address the underlying cause of anaphylaxis as effectively as epinephrine. Starting CPR may be necessary if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing, but the priority is to first manage the anaphylaxis itself with epinephrine to stabilize the patient and counteract the reaction.