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Anaphylaxis — MRCEM SBA MCQ

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HardEmergency MedicineAnaphylaxisMRCEM SBAUKMLAPARA

An adult develops hypotension, wheeze and generalised urticaria minutes after an antibiotic. Adrenaline has not yet been given. Which first dose and reassessment plan is correct?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Adrenaline 500 micrograms IM into the thigh; repeat after 5 minutes if ABC problems persist

B is correct. The adult first-line treatment for anaphylaxis is adrenaline 500 micrograms IM into the anterolateral thigh, repeated after 5 minutes if ABC features persist, alongside positioning, oxygen, monitoring, fluids and help. A uses an inappropriate IV-bolus route outside expert settings. C doubles the IM dose. D uses unreliable subcutaneous administration. E uses the wrong site and repeat interval.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK: emergency treatment of anaphylaxis: https://www.resus.org.uk/sites/default/files/2021-05/Emergency%20Treatment%20of%20Anaphylaxis%20May%202021_0.pdf GMC: PA registration assessment content map: https://www.gmc-uk.org/education/standards-guidance-and-curricula/standards-and-outcomes/pa-and-aa-prequalification-education-framework/pa-registration-assessment-content-map