perioperative anaphylaxis

2021 changes: lie them down, IM adrenaline, refractory anaphylaxis algorithm added
Presentation • Unexplained hypotension, tachycardia, bradycardia, bronchospasm (wheeze may be absent if severe)
• Unexpected cardiorespiratory arrest where other causes are excluded
Management 1. Call for help + pause non-essential surgery
2. Remove suspected triggers if possible: Antibiotics, NMBAs, dyes, colloids, chlorhexidine coated lines/catheters, lubricants, latex
3. Adrenaline doses:
1. Adult and child > 12 years: 50 micrograms IV (0.5 mL IV of 1 mg/10 mL [1:10,000])
2. Child < 12 years: 1 microgram/kg, needs careful dilution, titrate to effect
3. If no IV access: 10 micrograms/kg IM, (max 500 micrograms IM) of 1 mg/mL (1:1,000), and secure IV/IO access
4. Rapid IV fluid bolus
5. If systolic BP < 50 mmHg (or cardiac arrest), start CPR

IF REFRACTORY TO ADRENALINE INFUSION:
• Add a second vasopressor (noradrenaline or vasopressin) in addition to adrenaline
• Consider glucagon 1 mg IV in adults on beta-blockers
• Consider steroids for refractory reactions or shock
• Consider extracorporeal life support

You are allowed peripheral low dose adrenaline infusion - 0.5 mg (0.5 mL of 1 mg/mL [1:1000]) in 50 mL
• In both adults and children, start at 0.5–1.0 mL/kg/hour, and titrate according to clinical response
• Continuous monitoring and observation is mandatory