For an allergic reaction to a bite or sting, what protocol or action should be followed?

• A. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics
• B. Refer to Allergic Reaction Protocol and consider transporting the animal if dead
• C. Ignore unless symptoms worsen
• D. Transport the patient only

Answer: (B)

Allergic reactions to bites or stings can escalate quickly into life-threatening anaphylaxis, so the top priority is to follow a standardized Allergic Reaction Protocol. This protocol guides you through rapid assessment and the correct sequence of actions: recognize the signs of a severe reaction, administer appropriate treatment (such as epinephrine when indicated), ensure the airway and breathing are secure, monitor vital signs, and arrange timely transport for definitive care. Referencing the protocol ensures you don’t miss critical steps and that transport decisions are made based on the patient’s condition—if there are severe symptoms or the patient is not responsive, escalation to transport is essential. In this context, antibiotics aren’t the immediate treatment for an allergic reaction, and delaying care or leaving transport as the only action would risk keeping the patient from needed, life-saving interventions.