In the management of anaphylactic shock, which action is essential?

• A. Lie flat and raise legs.
• B. Administer oxygen.
• C. Give intramuscular adrenaline.
• D. Check airway and start CPR.

Answer: (C)

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening, rapid-onset reaction where airway swelling, bronchoconstriction, and sudden drop in blood pressure can occur. The essential action is giving adrenaline by intramuscular injection because it acts quickly to reverse these processes: it constricts blood vessels to raise blood pressure, relaxes airway smooth muscle to relieve bronchospasm, and reduces airway swelling. This immediate effect can stop the reaction from worsening and buys crucial time for additional treatment and emergency care.

After adrenaline is given, oxygen support helps maintain adequate saturation, and airway assessment continues to ensure the patient can breathe effectively. If the patient stops breathing or has no pulse, CPR should be started. But the decisive, life-saving moment in anaphylaxis is the prompt administration of intramuscular adrenaline.