What is the appropriate action if a patient shows signs of an allergic reaction?

The appropriate action when a patient shows signs of an allergic reaction is to stop the administration of the offending agent and notify the healthcare provider. This is crucial because continuing to administer the medication could worsen the reaction and lead to serious complications, such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.

By stopping the medication immediately, you can prevent further exposure to the allergen, allowing for a timely assessment and intervention by the healthcare provider. Notification is essential as the provider can then evaluate the patient's condition and determine the appropriate treatment, which may include administering antihistamines, steroids, or epinephrine, depending on the severity of the reaction.

Other options, while they may seem relevant, do not address the immediate need to stop the reaction from progressing. Continuing to administer the medication would exacerbate the issue. Applying a cold pack might relieve localized symptoms, but it does not address the root cause of the allergic reaction. Finally, documenting the event after patient stabilization is important for medical records, but it should not take precedence over immediate patient safety and care.