What should be administered to a pediatric patient in anaphylactic shock?

In cases of anaphylactic shock, the first-line treatment is the administration of epinephrine, as it acts quickly to reverse the severe allergic reaction. Administering epinephrine at a dose of 0.01 mg/kg intramuscularly is effective because it stimulates alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, and bronchodilation, which are critical in managing the life-threatening symptoms of anaphylaxis.

Epinephrine is crucial because it addresses the airway constriction and circulatory collapse seen in anaphylactic shock. Its rapid onset of action makes it the most appropriate choice in this scenario. The other treatments listed, while potentially helpful for allergic reactions or asthma, do not address the immediate severity of anaphylaxis as effectively as epinephrine does.