Back to Station Library
Foundation12 min estimatedMedical

Anaphylaxis

Severe allergic reaction following bee sting

anaphylaxisadrenalineallergyJRCALCResuscitation Council UK

This station is for CPD and OSCE practice only. Not a regulated qualification or formal competency sign-off. Always work within your scope of practice, local policy, employer guidance and current UK clinical guidelines.

Dispatch Information

“Category 2 — 24-year-old female, bee sting 10 minutes ago. Swollen lips, difficulty breathing, rash on chest. History of allergies unknown.”

Candidate Brief

You are a Paramedic. You arrive at a residential garden to find a 24-year-old female (Chloe) sitting on a garden chair. Her mother is present. The patient appears distressed with visible facial swelling. This station assesses your recognition and management of anaphylaxis per Resuscitation Council UK guidelines.

Learning Points
  • Adrenaline IM is the FIRST and MOST IMPORTANT treatment in anaphylaxis
  • IM route only in pre-hospital — IV adrenaline risks fatal arrhythmia
  • Do not delay adrenaline for IV access or secondary drugs
  • Antihistamines and steroids are secondary — NOT first-line
  • Anaphylaxis criteria: acute onset + life-threatening A/B/C problems
  • Position: supine with legs raised (unless breathing difficulty)
  • All patients need ED admission for observation (biphasic reaction risk)

Select mode