Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

What is the appropriate dosage of Adrenaline for treating Anaphylaxis?

1. 0.5mg of 1:1000 IM

2. 500mcg of 1:1000 IM

3. 1mg of 1:1000 IV

4. 0.25mg of 1:1000 IM

The correct answer is: 500mcg of 1:1000 IM

In the context of treating anaphylaxis, the appropriate dosage of adrenaline is critical for effective management. The standard recommendation for adults experiencing anaphylaxis is to administer 500 micrograms (or 0.5 mg) of adrenaline in a 1:1000 dilution via intramuscular (IM) injection. This dosage is established based on clinical guidelines which highlight that this concentration and amount promotes rapid resolution of symptoms associated with severe allergic reactions. The administration through the IM route is crucial as it allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream, providing immediate symptomatic relief. The provided dosage takes into consideration the severity of anaphylaxis and aims to counteract life-threatening symptoms like airway obstruction and cardiovascular collapse. While other options suggest different dosages or routes (such as intravenous administration), they do not align with the current standards for immediate treatment of anaphylaxis in adults, where the IM route is preferred for preventing delays in the response. Thus, the selection of 500 micrograms of 1:1000 IM is appropriate and reflects best practice in emergency protocols for anaphylaxis management.