Medical Emergencies in the Dental Practice 2021 – Anaphylaxis – Part 1 – Oxygen
Allergies to substances can result initially in a rash. This is an inflammatory response by the body to the substance which the body now recognises it as an irritant.
The most common medications for this are all types of Penicillins, including Amoxycillin, which if you are allergic to one type, you are allergic to all types. Aspirin is another that is prone to an allergic reaction, especially in asthmatics.
The problem is the very next time you are exposed to the substance; you will get an anaphylactic shock to the entire body. The inflammation is wide spread, causing swellings throughout the body, such as the tongue. The bronchial air tubes into the lungs, start to spasm and close up, creating extreme breathing difficulties.
What’s Next?
Immediately:
- Lay person flat
- Raise the alarm, get Red Bag and oxygen tank ready
- Place a pulse oximeter on patient finger ASAP.
- The patient saturated oxygen (SpO2) level should be between 93-96%. Do not exceed 96%! Turn down or turn off oxygen.
Use nasal prongs for 2-4 Litres/min.
Use a mask for 6 to 8 Litres/min for lower levels of oxygen saturation.
Record SpO2, conscious state, skin colour pulse and respirations.
Need an Appointment?
If you’d like to book an appointment with the dentist at Seymour Dental then call us in Dulwich Hill, Sydney on (02) 9564 2397 or
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Next week
Medical Emergencies in the Dental Practice 2021 – Anaphylaxis - Part 2 - Adrenaline