FATAL INTRACRANIAL BLEEDING ASSOCIATED WITH PREHOSPITAL USE OF EPINEPHRINE

We present a case of paramedic misjudgment in the execution of a proto col for the treatment of allergic reaction in a case of pulmonary edem a with wheezing. The sudden onset of respiratory distress, rash, and a history of a new medicine led the two paramedics on the scene to admi nister subcutaneous epinephrine. Subsequently, acute cardiac arrest an d fatal subarachnoid hemorrhage occurred. Epinephrine has a proven rol e in cardiac arrest in prehospital care; however, use by paramedics in patients with suspected allergic reaction and severe hypertension sho uld be viewed with caution.