After administering epinephrine to a patient with an allergic reaction, she is improving but is anxious and tachycardic. What should you do?

When a patient is administered epinephrine for an allergic reaction, it is common for them to exhibit side effects like anxiety and tachycardia, as the medication stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. These effects are not only expected but indicate the medication is working to counteract severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis.

Monitoring the patient closely is crucial in this scenario. It ensures that any potential exacerbation of the side effects or the development of new symptoms can be addressed promptly. The health care provider can observe vital signs and other relevant indicators to assess how the patient is responding. This vigilant approach helps in determining whether additional interventions are needed later, rather than administering further doses of epinephrine right away, which could lead to more significant side effects or complications.

In this situation, it is essential to balance the therapeutic effects of epinephrine with its side effects, and close monitoring allows for a supportive response to the patient's condition while they regain stability.