EpiPen Auto-Injector

Life-threatening allergies and anaphylaxis

What is anaphylaxis?

 Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur quickly (as fast as within a couple of minutes of exposure to the allergen). Anaphylaxis can be caused by a number of allergens, or triggers, which commonly include certain foods, insect stinging and biting, medications and latex.

What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis?

 Symptoms of anaphylaxis vary, but those involving the skin (hives, itching, skin redness) are most common. A majority of cases also involve swelling of the lips and tongue as well as of the airways (tightness in the throat, shortness of breath). Anaphylaxis may also involve the gastrointestinal system (nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing), the cardiovascular system (fast heartbeat, chest pain, low blood pressure) or the central nervous system (headache, confusion).

Recognize the symptoms that might occur.

Anaphylaxis is a severe or potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs very quickly —even as fast as within a couple of minutes of exposure to the allergen. Here are some of the symptoms to watch for.

What foods typically cause anaphylaxis?

 About 2.5% of Americans have some type of food allergy, and the problem is more prevalent among kids —about 1 in 13 children has a food allergy. Peanuts, tree nuts (such as walnuts and pecans), shellfish, fish, cow’s milk, eggs, wheat and soy account for the majority of life-threatening food allergies.

Acting fast can make a difference.

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If you, your child or someone you're caring for shows signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis, administer the EpiPen or EpiPen Jr® (epinephrine) Auto-Injector immediately as prescribed and seek emergency medical care.

In all cases of anaphylaxis prompt assessment and treatment are critical. Epinephrine is the only first line treatment for anaphylaxis. If you suspect you're having a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), don't hesitate to use an epinephrine auto-injector and immediately seek emergency medical care.

How to use EpiPen Auto-Injector in 3 easy steps.

1.Remove cover 2. Grip EpiPen with orange tip down and swing into outer thigh until it clicks 3. Count to 10 before removing device and massage injected area

EpiPen Auto-Injector Training Video- Please

view

the video on the link before you sign off on the certificate.

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Where are the EpiPens?

School issued

EpiPens are kept in the nurse’s office and main offices.

Student prescribed

in the nurse’s office.

EpiPens are kept If you have a student with a prescribed EpiPen, the nurse will inform you of the specific allergy.

In the case of a food allergy; the nurse will deliver the EpiPen to you prior to lunch on the days when that the cafeteria plans to serve the known allergen causing food.

In the case of an insect allergy; use common sense during recess, field trips, PE, or outdoor instruction. It is impossible for the nurse to know where these students are at any given point during the day. If you have a student with a

known insect allergy

, you can pick up the EpiPen before going outside.

Allergic reactions can surprise you!

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Anyone

can develop an allergic reaction at any given time.

Recognize the symptoms and use common sense.

Immediately

call for help or designate another staff member to do so. If you suspect an allergic reaction, please relay this information, along with your exact location so the nurse or administrative staff will know to grab the EpiPen prior to responding to the scene.

Never leave a victim unattended.

Complete paperwork

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2.

   Please sign and date the paper once you feel you are comfortable; Recognizing an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis Administering the EpiPen Auto Injector If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to ask If you would like to practice with an Auto-Injector Trainer Pen, please let the nurse know.

Return completed paperwork to the nurse.