Question is regarding dexamethasone in anaphylaxis. Scenario of a 50s M stung by a bee, known anaphylaxis reactions in past, no epi pen called EMS. Pt had angioedema, hives, and signs of bronchoconstriction. Pt treated with epi, followed by benadryl and some salbutamol for his bronchoconstriction. Pt has a history of asthma. Causative factor of bronchoconstriction likely being from anaphylaxic reaction to the bee sting, which the bronchoconstriction quickly resolved with epi, benadryl and salbutamol. Could this pt benefit from dexamethasone? Is this part of the expectation if you have anaphylaxis and the pt also has bronchostriction, with indications as described in protocol, that we should follow the protocol including dexamethasone? And while I’m on the topic, thoughts on dexamethasone in anaphylaxis in general, often steroids are given in hospital, could dexamethasone be beneficial?
If a patient has self-administered benadryl prior to our arrival, should a paramedic re-dose under the Allergic Reaction Medical Directive? There appears to be no contraindication for this in the directive. As well, the direction per the Medical Directive in the OBHG Companion Document is, diphenhydrAMINE administration should always follow the administration of EPINEPHrine as outlined in the Medical Directive. However, I have heard from my more senior colleages that we should not re-dose the benadryl, like we can the epineprhine. Can you please clarify?