Which practice is most important in response to severe allergic reactions?

Administering intramuscular epinephrine is the most critical practice in response to severe allergic reactions, especially in cases of anaphylaxis. Epinephrine works by rapidly reversing the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. It acts as a vasoconstrictor, increasing blood pressure, and it relaxes the muscles around the airways to improve breathing. Furthermore, it decreases swelling and hives, providing immediate relief from life-threatening symptoms.

While monitoring vital signs is important to assess the patient’s condition and response to treatment, it does not address the underlying pathology of anaphylaxis. Similarly, providing patient education is beneficial, but it cannot be implemented in the moment of crisis and is not a treatment for acute reactions. Administering oral antihistamines may help with mild allergic reactions, but they are not effective for severe reactions as they don’t work quickly enough and do not address the immediate and potentially life-threatening symptoms of anaphylaxis. Therefore, the administration of intramuscular epinephrine is the most crucial and life-saving action in this context.