What should a dental assistant do if they notice a patient is experiencing an allergic reaction?

In a situation where a dental assistant notices that a patient is experiencing an allergic reaction, it is essential to alert the dentist immediately and monitor the patient’s condition. This action is critical because dental professionals are trained to assess and manage such medical emergencies.

Alerting the dentist allows for a prompt evaluation and the implementation of appropriate interventions, which may include administering antihistamines, oxygen, or an EpiPen, depending on the severity of the reaction. Meanwhile, monitoring the patient's condition ensures that any changes or worsening symptoms can be addressed right away, facilitating the best possible outcome for the patient.

Continuing treatment without addressing a patient's allergic reaction can lead to serious complications, and providing water may not be appropriate as it could mask symptoms or create additional risks. Calling for emergency medical assistance is also important in severe cases, but the immediate step is to ensure that the dentist is made aware of the situation to manage it effectively.