London School of International Business (LSIB)

How should the airway be managed in cases of anaphylaxis in the NVQ 3 Award Basic Life Support Management of Anaphylaxis (fast-track) course?

Managing the Airway in Anaphylaxis

During the NVQ 3 Award Basic Life Support Management of Anaphylaxis (fast-track) course, it is crucial to understand how to properly manage the airway in cases of anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can lead to airway obstruction, making it difficult for the individual to breathe. Here is how the airway should be managed:

Step	Description
1	Assess the airway: Check for any signs of airway obstruction such as stridor, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
2	Position the patient: Place the patient in a comfortable position, preferably sitting upright to help with breathing.
3	Administer oxygen: If available, provide oxygen to the patient to help improve oxygenation.
4	Consider using an airway adjunct: In severe cases where the airway is compromised, consider using an airway adjunct such as an oropharyngeal airway or nasopharyngeal airway to maintain an open airway.
5	Prepare for advanced airway management: If the patient's airway continues to be compromised despite initial interventions, be prepared to perform advanced airway management techniques such as intubation.

Conclusion

Proper management of the airway in cases of anaphylaxis is essential to ensure the patient's ability to breathe and receive adequate oxygenation. By following the steps outlined above, healthcare providers can effectively manage the airway in anaphylactic emergencies and potentially save lives.