Care for a victim of an immunologic emergency who is severely hypotensive should include which of the following?

• A. Position the patient's airway and initiate positive-pressure ventilations.
• B. Initiate basic life support measures, including the use of an automated external defibrillator, if necessary.
• C. Routine spinal immobilization due to the potential for traumatic injury
• D. Apply high-flow oxygen therapy, place the patient in a shock position, and help maintain the patient's body temperature.

Answer: (D)

In a severe immunologic emergency with hypotension, the priority is to support oxygenation and circulation while reducing additional stress on the body. High-flow oxygen helps ensure adequate oxygen delivery despite airway swelling or bronchospasm that can occur with an allergic reaction. Placing the patient in a shock position—lying flat with legs elevated—helps improve venous return and support blood pressure during the hypotensive state. Maintaining body temperature protects against further stress on the cardiovascular system and helps preserve overall perfusion.

Spinal immobilization isn’t indicated unless there’s a suspected traumatic injury, and using an automated external defibrillator is appropriate only if the patient progresses to cardiac arrest. While airway management and ventilations may be necessary if breathing becomes severely compromised, the immediate, best-supported actions in this scenario focus on oxygenation, circulation, and temperature stability.