Anaphylactic shock is the result of a widespread hypersensitivity reaction; a condition called anaphylaxis. The shock is caused by physiological recognition of a foreign substance or allergy. Common allergens include insect venom, shellfish, peanuts, latex and some medications like penicillin. The allergens trigger inflammatory response, massive vasodilation and fluid shifts into the interstitium ( Huether & McCance, 2017) . The relative hypovolaemia then leads to decreased tissue perfusion, and impaired cellular metabolism. Anaphylactic shock signs include anxiety, difficulty in breathing, gastrointestinal cramps, edema, hives, burning and itching skin, low blood pressure, and low mental status. The shock comes suddenly and progresses to death within minutes in the absence of rescue therapy ( Hammer & McPhee, 2014) .
The treatment of anaphylactic shock begins with removal of the antigen if possible. Adrenaline is then administered intramuscularly to cause vasoconstriction and reverse the airway constriction. Fluids are then given intravenously to reverse the relative hypovolaemia. In addition to that, antihistamines and corticosteroids are also administered to stop the inflammatory reaction ( Huether & McCance, 2017) . In a school setting, it is essential to know the medical history of every child including their allergies, then prevent any situation which may result in allergic reactions. In case of an attack, it is proper to know the duration of the attack to help understand the extent to which the shock has affected the patient. It is preferable to refer the patient to emergency care unless the required treatment is available and can be of help at the time ( Jacobsen & Gratton, 2011) .
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Several patient factors may impact the process of anaphylactic shock. One of them is the socioeconomic status. There is an increased frequency of anaphylaxis with higher socioeconomic status; hence, increasing rate of anaphylactic shocks. The other factor is the exposure history. The longer the interval since previous antigen exposure, the less likely a reaction will occur. Therefore, these, among other factors should be monitored to control the instances of anaphylactic shocks.
References
Hammer, G. G., & McPhee, S. (2014). Pathophysiology of disease: An introduction to clinical medicine. (7th ed.) New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education.
Huether, S. E., & McCance, K. L. (2017). Understanding pathophysiology (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby.
Jacobsen, R. C., & Gratton, M. C. (2011). A case of unrecognized prehospital anaphylactic shock. Prehospital Emergency Care, 15(1), 61–66. Retrieved from the Walden Library databases
