Management of Anaphylaxis

• Flowchart Anaphylaxis algorithm 

Algorithm reproduced with the kind permission of the Resuscitation Council (UK).

The algorithm for refractory anaphylaxis can be found on the Resuscitation Council’s website or on the emergency drug trolley.

Other information

Anaphylaxis can be precipitated by a broad range of triggers which can include medicines, food, radio-opaque dyes and venom. On admission, known allergies must be clearly documented on the Hospital Electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administration (HEPMA) system/prescription chart and in the medical notes. Any new allergies identified must be documented and communicated to the patient and the patient’s GP. If a drug is the trigger then also complete a ‘Yellow card’ adverse drug reaction form. Forms can be found in the BNF or at www.yccscotland.scot.nhs.uk/.

Follow the NICE Guideline "Anaphylaxis: assessment and referral after emergency treatment" available here, specifically:

• All patients should be referred to a specialist clinic for allergy assessment.
• Offer the patient (or, if appropriate, their parent and/or carer) an appropriate adrenaline auto-injector (request a supply of two auto-injectors at discharge) as an interim measure before the specialist allergy review (unless the reaction was drug-induced).
• Individuals prescribed adrenaline auto-injectors must receive training in their use, and an emergency management or action plan.