What immediate action should the nurse take after a patient develops itching, weakness, and dizziness following an intracutaneous allergen injection?

When a patient develops itching, weakness, and dizziness after an intracutaneous allergen injection, these symptoms may indicate an allergic reaction, potentially progressing to anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency. The priority in such cases is to ensure the patient's airway is protected and circulation is supported.

The immediate and appropriate response would be to administer subcutaneous epinephrine, which helps counteract the severe allergic response by causing vasoconstriction, increasing blood pressure, and promoting bronchodilation, thereby alleviating symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, and breathing difficulties.

While reminding the patient to remain calm may offer some psychological comfort, it does not address the physiological issues occurring within the patient’s body. Applying a tourniquet is outdated and potentially harmful; it can restrict blood flow, thereby creating additional complications. Rubbing an anti-inflammatory cream on the injection site wouldn’t treat the systemic effects of a potential anaphylactic reaction.

In an emergency scenario like this, rapid intervention with epinephrine is crucial for the patient's safety and should be prioritized above all other measures.