What type of questions should be asked regarding allergies during an assessment?

Asking about allergies is crucial during an assessment because it helps identify potential medical emergencies and informs appropriate care. Inquiry about whether someone is allergic to any foods or medications, along with a description of their reactions, allows you to gather vital information that can affect the person's treatment. Understanding specific allergies and their corresponding reactions can guide lifeguards in deciding whether to administer a particular treatment, such as medications or to provide first aid in the event of an allergic reaction.

Additionally, knowing the severity of an individual's allergies can help prioritize responses during emergencies. Immediate recognition of symptoms and possible triggers can be lifesaving. In contrast, the other types of questions, while important for different aspects of medical history, do not specifically address the urgent need to understand allergenic threats that could arise in water activities, making them less relevant in this particular context.