What is the first-line treatment for an anaphylactic transfusion reaction?

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Multiple Choice

What is the first-line treatment for an anaphylactic transfusion reaction?

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that demands rapid reversal of airway, breathing, and circulation compromise. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment because it quickly counteracts the main problems: it constricts dilated blood vessels to raise blood pressure, relaxes bronchial smooth muscle to improve airflow, and reduces throat and airway edema. In adults, give intramuscular epinephrine (1:1000) 0.3–0.5 mg in the mid-outer thigh, and repeat every 5–15 minutes if symptoms persist or worsen. Stop the transfusion immediately, secure the airway, provide oxygen, and establish IV access with aggressive IV fluids as needed. Steroids and antihistamines may be used as adjuncts, but they do not reverse the acute symptoms fast enough and are not substitutes for epinephrine. Saline hydration and general supportive care are important, but the key to stopping the reaction is prompt epinephrine administration.

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that demands rapid reversal of airway, breathing, and circulation compromise. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment because it quickly counteracts the main problems: it constricts dilated blood vessels to raise blood pressure, relaxes bronchial smooth muscle to improve airflow, and reduces throat and airway edema. In adults, give intramuscular epinephrine (1:1000) 0.3–0.5 mg in the mid-outer thigh, and repeat every 5–15 minutes if symptoms persist or worsen. Stop the transfusion immediately, secure the airway, provide oxygen, and establish IV access with aggressive IV fluids as needed. Steroids and antihistamines may be used as adjuncts, but they do not reverse the acute symptoms fast enough and are not substitutes for epinephrine. Saline hydration and general supportive care are important, but the key to stopping the reaction is prompt epinephrine administration.

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