A patient who is responsive to painful stimuli is covered with hives. He has labored respirations and a weak and rapid pulse. His vital signs are: pulse 128, respirations 24, and blood pressure 80/50 mmHg. Given this presentation, the EMT should be suspicious of what condition?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presentation of hives, labored respirations, weak and rapid pulse, and hypotension are all indicative of anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The patient's responsiveness to painful stimuli suggests that they are experiencing a decreased level of consciousness, which can occur in severe cases of anaphylaxis. Sensitization and hypersensitivity are general terms that can refer to a variety of immune responses, while a localized allergic reaction would not typically produce the wide-ranging symptoms seen in this scenario.

A Patient Who Is Responsive to Painful Stimuli Is Covered