A patient who was stung by a bee is in respiratory distress. What is the first action to take?

In cases of anaphylactic reaction, such as a bee sting leading to respiratory distress, the immediate action is to administer epinephrine. This is because epinephrine acts quickly to reverse the severe symptoms associated with anaphylaxis, including airway swelling, bronchospasm, and cardiovascular instability. It works by causing vasoconstriction, increasing heart rate, and relaxing bronchial smooth muscle, which can rapidly alleviate respiratory distress and stabilize the patient.

While oxygen therapy is important to ensure adequate oxygenation in a patient experiencing respiratory distress, it does not address the underlying cause of anaphylaxis or provide the necessary rapid intervention required in this situation. Antihistamines, although they may be used as an adjunct treatment for allergic reactions, take longer to exert their effect and are not the first line of treatment in acute anaphylaxis. Initiating intravenous fluids may be beneficial in managing hypotension caused by anaphylaxis, but again, it should follow the immediate administration of epinephrine for the rapid management of life-threatening symptoms.