Allergic Reactions: What Nursing Students Should Know and How to Help

Jason T
Oct 10, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Nov 12, 2025

Woman sneezing due to common allergy triggers like pollen, peanuts, and pets — used by Saving Grace Medical Academy to teach First Aid and CPR students how to recognize and respond to allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. — Allergic reactions can escalate quickly — learn to recognize symptoms and provide fast, effective care with First Aid and CPR training from Saving Grace Medical Academy.

As a nursing student, you’re likely to encounter patients experiencing allergic reactions. Do you know how to spot one? How can you help someone in an emergency? Can an allergy be life-threatening? This guide will walk you through what an allergic reaction looks like, its potential causes, and how to provide immediate care—especially in severe cases like anaphylaxis.

What is an Allergic Reaction?

An allergic reaction is an immune response to a substance that the body mistakenly identifies as harmful. These substances, known as allergens, could be anything from bee venom and pollen to pet dander and shellfish. When the body encounters an allergen, it releases histamines, which cause tissue inflammation. This immune response can range from mild symptoms like skin irritation to severe, life-threatening conditions like anaphylaxis.

Educational allergy symptoms chart showing rash, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, red eyes, and itching — used by Saving Grace Medical Academy to teach First Aid and CPR students how to recognize allergic reactions. — Recognizing early allergy symptoms is key to preventing emergencies. Learn how to identify and respond to allergic reactions in First Aid and CPR courses with Saving Grace Medical Academy.

Common Allergens

Bee stings
Pollen
Shellfish
Nuts
Pet dander
Certain medications

How to Identify Mild vs. Severe Allergic Reactions

As a future nurse, recognizing the symptoms of an allergic reaction quickly could save a life. Here’s what to look for:

Mild Symptoms:

Itchy skin, hives, or a rash
Tightness in the throat or chest
Dizziness, confusion, or weakness

Severe Symptoms (Anaphylaxis):

Swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue (which can block the airway)
Red, blotchy skin or widespread hives
Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or coughing
Weakness, nausea, vomiting, or a rapid pulse

Close-up image of urticaria or hives on human skin, used by Saving Grace Medical Academy to teach First Aid students how to identify severe allergic reactions and provide appropriate emergency care. — Urticaria, or hives, can signal a serious allergic reaction. Learn how to identify and treat allergic skin responses in First Aid and CPR courses with Saving Grace Medical Academy.

What to Do if You Encounter an Allergic Reaction

Check the Scene and Victim: Ensure the environment is safe, and check if the patient is breathing.
Call 911 Immediately: If the person is having severe symptoms (anaphylaxis), or has trouble breathing, call for emergency help.
Provide Comfort and Reassurance: Anxiety can worsen the reaction, so remain calm and provide support.
Use an Epi-Pen if Available: If the person has an epinephrine auto-injector (Epi-Pen), assist them in using it. Follow the “5 Rights of Medication Assistance” to ensure the correct usage.
How to Assist with an Epi-Pen:
- Remove the safety cap (“Blue to the sky”).
- Press the orange tip firmly against the thigh until you hear a click.
- Hold for 10 seconds before removing.
- Keep the used injector with the patient for disposal at the hospital.
Monitor for Recurrence: Symptoms can return within minutes, so even after administering an Epi-Pen, the person should seek medical care.

Preventing Allergic Reactions

If you have an allergy, it’s important to:

Read food labels carefully.
Ask about ingredients when eating out.
Consult with a physician about managing allergies, especially in clinical settings.

Final Thoughts for Nursing Students

As a nursing student, your ability to quickly recognize and manage allergic reactions can make a huge difference in patient outcomes. Whether in the hospital or in public, having this knowledge prepares you to act fast.

Learn First Aid and Save a Life!

Enroll in our First Aid & CPR Courses at Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd. and be prepared for emergencies. Whether you're preparing for clinical rotations or looking to enhance your medical skills, our courses are designed to give you the confidence to act when every second counts.

“This material is for informational purposes and is sourced from the Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or training. For more information, consult your physician or a certified safety training provider.”

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