Anaphylaxis management: knowledge of Brazilian pediatricians

To verify the level of knowledge of Brazilian pediatricians about anaphylaxis, identifying sociodemographic and educational characteristics of the professional which contribute to the adequate management of this clinical disorder.

A survey was carried out on the management of anaphylaxis using a questionnaire prepared and distributed by email to pediatricians in different states in Brazil. The level of knowledge about anaphylaxis was classified as: satisfactory; unsatisfactory; more than satisfactory; ideal, according to evaluation criteria adopted for the statements of clinical cases that addressed the drug of choice, route of administration, positioning of the patient with anaphylaxis and recognition of the clinical case with differential diagnosis.

A total of 1,645 Brazilian pediatricians participated, of which 48.5% had satisfactory knowledge of the management of anaphylaxis. Approaches to choosing the preferred drug for anaphylaxis and the route of administration were the biggest obstacles to responses. The factors associated with satisfactory knowledge were shorter time since graduation, having a medical residency in pediatrics, having a qualification in allergy and immunology, having completed the Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) in the last two years and having experience in anaphylaxis.

The results regarding satisfactory knowledge of anaphylaxis are lower than those expected for the treatment of a potentially fatal condition. It is important to encourage the continuing education of pediatricians who work mainly in emergencies, wards, and intensive care units, in light of the use of the assumptions of andragogy and Ausubel's theory, with active methodologies, to promote significant and permanent learning of management of anaphylaxis.