For a suspected anaphylactic reaction, what is the immediate first action?

• A. Call 999
• B. Maintain airway and administer oxygen
• C. Administer intramuscular adrenaline
• D. Perform BLS and defibrillation if needed

Answer: (A)

In suspected anaphylaxis, the most time-critical move is to summon emergency medical help immediately. This ensures rapid access to professional assessment, airway management, oxygen, and life-saving medications such as adrenaline, which can reverse the dangerous reactions driving swelling and low blood pressure. Acting quickly to call for help also buys time while you monitor the patient and prepare to provide further care as trained, such as maintaining an open airway, giving high-flow oxygen if available, and administering intramuscular adrenaline as soon as you’re able and trained to do so. While airway support and adrenaline are essential parts of the treatment, activating emergency services first ensures that advanced care arrives as soon as possible, which is why the first action is to contact 999.