APPROACHES TO OTOLARYNGIC ALLERGY EMERGENCIES

The otolaryngic allergist should take every measure possible to preven t reactions during testing and treatment of the allergic patient. Beca use the risk of this rare complication cannot be completely eliminated , however, it is essential to be prepared for prompt recognition and p roper treatment of an anaphylactic emergency. An emergency set, includ ing airway management tools, oxygen, intravenous materials, and proper medication, is essential. The entire office staff should be educated to cope with the emergency. Finally, a medication history must be repe ated at intervals to detect patients who are receiving beta blockers t o either remove them from the patients' treatment regimen or to prepar e for the special treatment of the patients on beta blockers.