A 55-year-old male has self-administered his EpiPen. He reports chest tightness and shortness of breath, fearing his tongue is swelling. What is the appropriate response?

In this scenario, the individual is experiencing symptoms consistent with anaphylaxis, which can include chest tightness, shortness of breath, and concerns about tongue swelling. After self-administering an EpiPen, it is crucial to act swiftly, as these symptoms can indicate a life-threatening situation that requires immediate medical attention.

Transporting the patient rapidly is essential because anaphylaxis can progress quickly and may lead to respiratory distress or failure. Monitoring vital signs during transport allows for the early detection of any changes in the patient’s condition, enabling medical personnel to respond appropriately.

While reassurance can be beneficial, it does not replace the need for urgent transport in this critical situation. Administering nitroglycerin is not appropriate in this context, as it is used to treat chest pain related to cardiac issues rather than anaphylaxis. Checking the airway and initiating CPR may be necessary if the patient becomes unresponsive or stops breathing, but the immediate priority is to ensure the patient receives emergency care as quickly as possible.