Allergic Reactions
Anaphylaxis is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction that may occur very quickly. The most common anaphylaxis reactions are to food, insect stings, medications and latex.
Symptoms Include:
- Trouble breathing
- Hives or swelling
- Tighness of the throat
- Hoarse voice
- Nausea
- Vomitting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Rapid heart beat
- Feeling of doom
- Cardiac arrest
How To Use An Epipen
If you or someone you’re caring for shows signs or symptoms of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), seek immediate medical treatment. This includes an injection of epinephrine (EpiPen) and dialing 9-1-1. If it isn’t treated properly, anaphylaxis can be fatal.
FAQs
When should I inject EpiPen?
As soon as you notice the first signs of a severe allergic reaction. It’s important to understand that serious reactions don’t always have initial warning signs, and can come out of nowhere. It’s best to discuss with your doctor what the best course of action is for your EpiPen protocol. They will understand your situation and allergies.
How long do I hold the EpiPen in place?
Place the orange tip against the person’s outer thigh, and make sure that the pen is perpendicular to the thigh. Then swing into the leg with the pen. You should hear a click, which means that the injection has started. From there, hold it in place firmly as you count down from 3 slowly. After this, you are okay to remove the pen from their thigh.
Can I inject EpiPen through my clothes?
Yes, it is absolutely okay to inject EpiPen through your clothing. Just be sure to make sure that the injection gets through the clothes, and that you hold the EpiPen firmly in place.
What should I do with my used Epipen?
After using an Epipen, you should immediately seek medical attention. When you get in touch with emergency responders, you can give them the used Epipen to be discarded.
What do I do to prepare to administer the shot?
Prepare to administer the shot by taking the pen out of the clear carrying tube that is holding it. Hold the pen tight in your fist with the orange tip pointing downwards. There is a blue safety release that needs to be pulled before administering the shot. To do this, use your other hand to pull the release straight out. Be sure not to twist or bend the release as you pull it out.
