How should a nurse respond to a patient displaying signs of an allergic reaction?

In cases of an allergic reaction, especially if the reaction is severe or exhibits signs of anaphylaxis, the nurse's immediate focus should be on assessing the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation. This triage is vital because an allergic reaction can lead to airway obstruction, difficulty breathing, and cardiovascular instability, which are life-threatening conditions. Administering epinephrine plays a critical role in treating anaphylaxis, as it works quickly to reverse the symptoms by constricting blood vessels and opening up airways.

While administering antihistamines and monitoring for changes is important in managing milder allergic reactions, it should not take precedence over ensuring that the patient's airway and breathing are secure. Furthermore, creating a calm environment or encouraging hydration may be supportive measures but do not address the acute threat to the patient's health posed by an allergic reaction. Therefore, the focus should be on the immediate stabilization of the patient before any additional treatments are considered.