How to Administer an EpiPen for Anaphylaxis
Signs & Symptoms
- Difficult/noisy breathing
- Swelling of tongue Swelling/tightness in throat
- Difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice
- Wheeze or persistent cough
- Persistent dizziness or collapse
- Pale and floppy (in young children)
Management
- Call ambulance
- Lay the person flat, If breathing is difficult, allow to sit – do not allow them to stand
- Give the adrenaline auto-injector if available
- Further adrenaline doses may be given if there is no response after 5 minutes
- If in doubt, give the adrenaline auto-injector
Step 1
Form a fist around the EpiPen and PULL OFF BLUE SAFETY RELEASE
Step 2
PLACE THE ORANGE END against outer mid-thigh (with or without clothing)
Step 3
PUSH DOWN HARD until a click is heard or felt and hold in place for 3 seconds
Step 4
REMOVE EpiPen.