What is the proper response to someone who has been stung by a bee and is showing signs of an allergic reaction?

The proper response to someone showing signs of an allergic reaction after a bee sting is to help them find and administer their prescribed epinephrine auto-injector. This is crucial because an allergic reaction can escalate quickly into a severe condition known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. The epinephrine auto-injector is designed to counteract the effects of anaphylaxis by narrowing blood vessels and opening airways, thereby improving breathing and blood circulation.

Immediate access to the auto-injector can significantly improve the victim's chances of recovery. It is pertinent for those who have known allergies to carry their auto-injector to address potential allergic reactions promptly and effectively. Prompt action can save lives in such emergencies, making it vital to assist the individual in administering this medication if they are experiencing severe symptoms.

While antihistamines can help with mild allergic reactions, they do not work quickly enough for severe reactions and are not a substitute for epinephrine. Applying ice or encouraging the person to drink water may provide minor relief but does not address the underlying issue of anaphylaxis. Therefore, guiding the individual to use their epinephrine auto-injector is the most appropriate and urgent course of action in this situation.