What steps should be taken to manage a suspected intraoperative allergic reaction?

• A. Stop exposure, maintain airway, administer appropriate medications, monitor hemodynamics, and call for assistance.
• B. Increase exposure to identify allergen.
• C. Move patient to recovery.
• D. Do nothing until after surgery.

Answer: (A)

This question tests how to manage an intraoperative allergic reaction with an emphasis on rapid airway, breathing, and circulation support. The first priority is to stop exposure to the suspected allergen to prevent further reaction, if possible. Then secure and maintain the airway and provide adequate ventilation, since airway edema or bronchospasm can quickly become life-threatening under anesthesia.

Administer medications appropriate for an allergic reaction, with epinephrine as the first-line treatment for suspected anaphylaxis. Additional drugs such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and bronchodilators may be used as indicated by the clinical picture. Continuous monitoring of hemodynamics is essential because hypotension and shock can develop rapidly; be prepared to manage with IV fluids and vasopressors as needed, while watching heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and end-tidal CO2.

Calling for assistance ensures additional skilled help and resources are available promptly, which is crucial in a rapidly evolving intraoperative crisis.

The other options don’t fit because increasing exposure would worsen the reaction, moving the patient to recovery delays critical treatment, and doing nothing risks missing a potentially fatal progression.