Anaphylaxis Emergency Response
This playbook outlines the steps to identify anaphylaxis and administer an epinephrine auto-injector during a severe allergic reaction. It includes emergency interventions and post-administration protocol.
Step 1: Identify Symptoms
Recognize signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, swelling, abdominal pain, vomiting, or a drop in blood pressure.
Step 2: Call for Help
Immediately call emergency services and communicate that an individual is having a severe allergic reaction and may require epinephrine.
Step 3: Access Injector
Locate the epinephrine auto-injector. Ensure it is the correct dosage for the individual's age and weight.
Step 4: Administer Epinephrine
Follow the instructions on the auto-injector package: remove the safety cap, place the injector against the thigh, press firmly until it clicks, and hold in place for the recommended amount of time (usually 3 seconds).
Step 5: Monitor Patient
After administering the epinephrine, lay the individual flat, elevate their legs, and closely monitor breathing and consciousness while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
Step 6: Secondary Dose
If symptoms do not improve within 5-15 minutes, and a second epinephrine auto-injector is available, prepare to administer a second dose following the same procedure as the first.
Step 7: Transfer Care
Once emergency services arrive, provide them with all information about the allergic reaction, any interventions taken, and the time the epinephrine was administered.
General Notes
Training Required
All individuals responsible for responding to anaphylaxis should be trained in recognizing signs of an allergic reaction and the proper use of epinephrine auto-injectors.
Device Expiry
Regularly check the expiration date on auto-injectors and replace them as necessary to ensure effectiveness.
Consent and Information
Whenever possible, obtain verbal consent from the individual or a guardian before administering epinephrine, and inform them of the potential side effects.