Shellfish exposure causes hives and mild lip swelling; what additional information would be most helpful in assessment?
- Whether the patient has ever had a sprained ankle
- Whether the patient has seasonal allergies to pollen
- Number of hours slept last night and current caffeine intake
- History of prior anaphylaxis and whether an epinephrine auto-injector is available (correct answer)
Explanation: This question tests paramedic-level understanding of allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, focusing on pertinent history in assessment (NREMT standard). Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires rapid identification and treatment with epinephrine. In this scenario, hives and mild lip swelling after shellfish suggest a potential allergic reaction. The correct answer involves inquiring about prior anaphylaxis and epinephrine availability to inform risk and treatment. A common distractor might involve unrelated allergies like pollen, which is incorrect for acute management. Teaching strategies include training paramedics to quickly identify signs of anaphylaxis and gather targeted history. Encourage familiarity with protocols and emphasize the importance of continuous patient monitoring after intervention.