1) Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause death within minutes if not treated quickly, affecting approximately 2 million Americans annually and causing 400-800 deaths. 2) Allergic reactions are caused by the immune system releasing chemicals to fight foreign substances (antigens) that can cause symptoms ranging from mild irritation to constricted airways and shock. 3) Epinephrine auto-injectors like EpiPens can prevent death from anaphylaxis if administered promptly by injecting the drug into the outer thigh upon onset of symptoms like low blood pressure, swelling of the face/throat, difficulty breathing, and shock.

1. ANAPHYLAXIS AND
By Amy Greene,
EPINEPHRINE AUTO- RN
INJECTORS

2. Approximately 2 million people in the United States are at risk
for anaphylaxis. About 400 to 800 deaths in the United States
are caused by anaphylaxis. Death can occur within minutes of
exposure to an antigen (a foreign substance that brings on the
allergic reaction). Fortunately, some deaths can be prevented
if anaphylaxis is recognized immediately and cared for quickly.
Allergic reactions are caused by the activity of the immune
system. The body recognizes and protects itself from antigens
by producing antibodies. These antibodies fight antigens.
When the immune system recognizes an antigen, it releases
chemicals to fight these foreign substances and eliminate
them from the body causing multitude of reactions within the
body.
Mild allergic reactions can cause redness or irritation around
the site of exposure.
Severe allergic reactions, in which air passages may swell and
restrict breathing, include signals of shock.
Anaphylaxis usually occurs suddenly, within seconds or
minutes after contact with the substance.
Death may occur quickly

3. Signs of Anaphylaxis
Weakness, dizziness or confusion
Swelling of the face, throat or tongue
Rash or hives
Tight feeling in the chest and throat
Difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath.
● Trouble breathing can progress to a blocked airway
due to swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, and/or
larynx (voice box).
Low blood pressure
Shock

4. HOW TO ADMINISTER AN EPINEPHRINE AUTO-
INJECTOR
1. Place injector into closed fist.
2. Pull off the blue safety release cap.
3. Swing and firmly push the orange tip against
the outer thigh so it ‘clicks.’ HOLD on thigh for
approximately 10 seconds to deliver the drug.
Please note: As soon as you release pressure from
the
thigh, the protective cover will extend.
 4. Place the injector back in the original container
and give to EMS.

5. When EMS arrives, describe the
following:
● The person’s experience
● What occurred
● The signals observed
● The care given
● When epinephrine was given
● Location of the injection site
● How the person reacted to the
medication