A 23-year-old male has called EMS for swollen lips and hives. As you enter the scene, what observation would make the EMT suspicious that the patient is having an allergic reaction?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A new container of penicillin on a table with two pills missing would suggest that the patient has recently taken penicillin, which is a common allergen for some people. Swollen lips and hives are also common symptoms of an allergic reaction. The other options do not necessarily suggest an allergic reaction. A glucometer could indicate diabetes, other family members complaining of similar symptoms could indicate a contagious illness, and a bottle of expired nitroglycerin could indicate a past medical history of heart conditions.

A 23-Year-Old Male Has Called EMS for Swollen Lips and Hives