A 5-year-old child presents with hives, swelling of the lips, and stridor after a meal. What should be the priority intervention?

In this scenario, the child is exhibiting signs of anaphylaxis, which is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The presence of hives, swelling of the lips, and stridor indicates significant airway involvement and the potential for respiratory compromise. Administering intramuscular epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, as it acts quickly to reverse the effects of the allergic reaction. It causes vasoconstriction, which can help to reduce swelling, and bronchodilation, which improves airway patency and alleviates stridor.

Epinephrine should be administered as soon as anaphylaxis is suspected, as it is crucial to act swiftly to prevent the patient's condition from deteriorating. This intervention addresses the immediate threat to the child's airway and circulation effectively.

The other options, while important in the overall management of anaphylaxis, do not address the immediate need as critically as epinephrine. Administering antihistamines can be helpful for allergic reactions, but they take longer to work and should not replace epinephrine in a severe response. Calling for emergency assistance is vital, yet it must occur concurrently with administration of epinephrine to ensure that definitive care is enacted promptly. Monitoring respiratory status is essential for