What treatment should be provided if the patient is hypotensive during an allergic reaction?

Administering IV fluids is the appropriate treatment for a patient who is hypotensive during an allergic reaction. Hypotension can occur during anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions due to vascular dilation and increased capillary permeability, leading to shock. IV fluids help to restore intravascular volume and improve blood pressure by expanding the circulating blood volume quickly.

In contrast, placing the patient upright may not be the best choice as this position can lead to further complications such as reduced venous return and increased strain on the cardiovascular system. Giving oral fluids is also ineffective in a critical situation, especially if the patient is experiencing symptoms that may inhibit swallowing or if rapid intervention is necessary. Performing a tracheostomy is a drastic and invasive procedure that is not indicated for hypotension alone, especially in cases where airway management can be achieved through less invasive means, such as providing oxygen or ensuring patency of the airway.

Thus, administering IV fluids is vital for stabilizing the patient in the face of hypotension due to an allergic reaction.