The ASCIA (Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy) Action Plans provide clear instructions on what to do for both mild to moderate allergic reactions and for anaphylaxis, the most severe allergic reaction. For mild to moderate allergic reactions, the ASCIA plan advises to:
- Stay with the person and call for help.
- Locate and be ready to use an adrenaline device if needed.
- Phone the person's family or emergency contact.
- For insect sting allergies, flick out the sting if visible.
- For tick allergies, seek medical help or freeze the tick to allow it to drop off.
Signs of mild to moderate reactions include swelling of lips, face, eyes, hives or welts, tingling mouth, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
For anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), the key steps are:
- Lay the person flat and do not allow them to stand or walk; if unconscious, place them in recovery position.
- Give the adrenaline (epinephrine) device immediately.
- Call an ambulance.
- Phone family or emergency contacts.
- If no response after 5 minutes, give a further dose of adrenaline.
- Transfer the person to hospital for observation.
- Start CPR if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
The plan emphasizes that if in doubt, adrenaline should be given, and highlights key signs of anaphylaxis such as difficulty breathing, swelling of tongue or throat, persistent cough, difficulty talking, dizziness, or collapse.
In summary, ASCIA Action Plans instruct:
- For mild/moderate reactions: monitor, call for help, antihistamines may be given if advised, and prepare for escalation.
- For anaphylaxis: immediate administration of adrenaline, emergency services called, person laid flat, and careful monitoring until professional care takes over.
These plans are designed to be followed closely by patients, carers, and first responders to help manage allergic reactions safely and effectively.
