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There are different positions to help a patient to recover from an anaphylactic reaction, depending on their condition. When the patient is using their auto-injector they should either lie flat or be sat down. If the symptoms are affecting breathing, the patient may be more comfortable in either the semi-recumbent position, resting on someone else or on pillows. They will find it easier to breathe in this position. If the patient is feeling cold, dizzy, weak or they are clammy or sweaty, they may have low blood pressure, so you should lay them down with their legs raised up on a chair or something similar, which allows blood to return to the head. It is important to not suddenly stand up after using the auto-injector as a sudden change in body position may lower the blood pressure drastically, which could make the condition much worse. If you are caring for someone, when lying them down, it is a good idea to turn their head to one side to prevent them from breathing in vomit, should they suddenly be sick. If the patient looks like they may vomit, turn them on their side in preparation, and if anyone becomes unconscious, you should always place them in the recovery position. However, if they stop breathing, then you should begin CPR. To put the patient into the recovery position, make sure they are on their back and take the hand nearest to you and place it at 90 degrees from the body with the elbow bent. Lean across them and pull their other hand across their body by the thumb and then interlock your fingers and hold their hand against their face on the side nearest to you. With your other hand grip their leg furthest away from you and lift it so that the foot is flat on the floor. Move your hand on the far side of the knee and pull them towards you using the leg as a lever and keeping their head supported with your other hand. Remove your hand from their hand and open their airway by tilting the head back. Their hand will remain by their face to support it. Then tidy up their leg so it is not reducing circulation, which will also support them better. Check they are breathing, that the airway is open, continuing to closely monitor their breathing and vital signs until the EMS arrives. If one is available you can cover them with a blanket to keep them warm. Remember in all cases of anaphylaxis you must call the EMS, even if the patient is feeling better.
Anaphylactic Reaction: Patient Recovery Positions
Choosing the Right Position
Selecting the Appropriate Position:
Helping a patient recover from an anaphylactic reaction involves choosing the right position based on their condition.
Using an Auto-Injector
Auto-Injector Use:
When administering an auto-injector, the patient should either lie flat or sit down for their safety and comfort.
Semi-Recumbent Position
Semi-Recumbent Option:
If symptoms affect breathing, consider placing the patient in a semi-recumbent position, propped with pillows or resting on someone else. This position aids in easier breathing.
Managing Low Blood Pressure
Dealing with Low Blood Pressure:
If the patient feels cold, dizzy, weak, or exhibits clamminess or sweating, they may have low blood pressure. Lay them down and elevate their legs, allowing blood to flow back to the head. Avoid sudden position changes, which can worsen their condition.
Preventing Aspiration
Minimizing Aspiration Risk:
When lying the patient down, turn their head to the side to prevent inhalation of vomit in case of sudden sickness. Be prepared to turn them on their side if vomiting seems likely. If the patient loses consciousness, place them in the recovery position. If they stop breathing, commence CPR.
Recovery Position Steps
Transition to Recovery Position:
To move the patient into the recovery position, follow these steps:
- Place the patient on their back.
- Take the hand closest to you and position it at a 90-degree angle from the body with the elbow bent.
- Lean across the patient and pull their other hand across the body by the thumb.
- Interlock your fingers and hold their hand against their face on your side.
- With your other hand, grip the leg farthest from you and raise it so the foot is flat on the floor.
- Move your hand to the far side of the knee and pull them toward you, using the leg as a lever while supporting their head with your other hand.
- Release their hand and tilt their head back to open the airway.
- Position their hand near their face to provide support.
- Adjust their leg for proper circulation and support.
- Ensure their airway is open and monitor breathing and vital signs until EMS arrives.
Calling for Professional Help
Contacting Emergency Services:
Regardless of the patient's condition, always call EMS in cases of anaphylaxis, even if the patient's symptoms improve.