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What is the allergic reaction protocol at a splash pad?
Quick answer
For mild reactions (hives, itching) give a children's antihistamine and watch closely. For anaphylaxis (swelling lips or tongue, wheezing, vomiting, dizziness, collapse) inject epinephrine immediately, call 911, lay the child flat with legs raised, and give a second dose in 5-15 minutes if no improvement.
Allergic reactions at splash pads can be triggered by stings, ant bites, food brought to picnic areas, sunscreens, pool chemicals, or grass. Mild reactions are local: a few hives, itching, mild swelling near the trigger. Treat with a kid-dose oral antihistamine (cetirizine or diphenhydramine) and observe for 30 minutes. Moderate reactions add multiple-system symptoms: hives spreading, stomach pain, vomiting, mild throat tightness — call your pediatrician or urgent care now. Anaphylaxis is the life-threatening form: rapid swelling of lips, tongue, or throat; wheezing; trouble breathing; sudden weakness; pale or blue skin; vomiting plus hives; collapse. Use the epinephrine auto-injector into the outer thigh through clothing immediately, then call 911. Lay the child flat with legs elevated unless they are vomiting (then on their side). If symptoms are not improving in 5-15 minutes, give a second auto-injector dose. Even after epinephrine works, ER evaluation is mandatory because rebound reactions can occur 4-12 hours later.