Recognition of Anaphylaxis
- Airway: swelling, stridor, hoarse voice
- Breathing: wheeze, increased work of breathing
- Circulation: tachycardia, hypotension, pale
- Skin: urticaria, angioedema, flushing
WARNING
Anaphylaxis can progress rapidly - act early
Prep
- Confirm anaphylaxis (not just allergy)
- Retrieve correct autoinjector for weight
- Remove safety cap
Device Selection
| Weight | EpiPen | Anapen |
|---|---|---|
| 7.5-20 kg | EpiPen Jr (150 mcg) | Anapen Jr (150 mcg) |
| 20-50 kg | EpiPen Jr or adult | Anapen 300 |
| >50 kg | EpiPen (300 mcg) | Anapen 500 |
Execute
Site
- Outer mid-thigh
- Through clothing if needed
Technique
- EpiPen: Remove blue cap, jab orange tip into thigh, hold 10 seconds
- Anapen: Remove cap, press grey button, hold 10 seconds
CAUTION
Do not inject into buttock (sciatic nerve) or IV
Finish
- Call 000 if not already done
- Position: lay flat, elevate legs (unless breathing difficulty)
- Repeat in 5 min if no improvement
- Monitor continuously - biphasic reactions occur
NOTE
Everyone should stay for 4+ hours observation
Checklist Complete