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The EpiPen is an auto-injector which administers adrenaline and is carried by people who suffer from anaphylaxis so that they can be used if the person goes into anaphylactic shock. There are two types of EpiPen, the EpiPen and the EpiPen Junior. To avoid accidents and prevent damaging the EpiPen, they should always be kept in their case when not in use. There are easy to read instructions down the side of each pen and these should be read to make sure you use it correctly. The blue cap shows you the top of the EpiPen, this is the safety cap which makes sure that the needle does not come out when not in use. Once removed, the unit is live. The cap can be replaced without the EpiPen being used; however, you must do so carefully as you could inject yourself accidentally with the adrenaline. When using an EpiPen, you should first remove it from its case. Then lie down with your legs slightly raised to keep blood flowing, or if breathing is difficult then just sit down. Remove the safety cap and gently push the auto-injector into the thigh. This can be done through clothing, but make sure that the needle will not go through any thick seams in the clothes or anything in a pocket. Once the needle has hit, hold it in place for 3 seconds and then remove it. Stay where you are until the emergency services arrive, if you are treating someone and they are unconscious, place them in the recovery position. When the EpiPen has been used, a needle cover will appear automatically over the needle, to prevent any needle injuries. The used EpiPen should be given to the emergency services after use so that they can see exactly what has been administered to the patient, and they can also dispose of it properly. Should a second dose be required, repeat the process, and make sure that you give both to the emergency services.
Using EpiPen: Anaphylaxis Treatment
The EpiPen and EpiPen Junior
Essential Anaphylaxis Equipment:
The EpiPen is an auto-injector designed to deliver adrenaline swiftly during anaphylactic shock. It comes in two variants, the EpiPen and the EpiPen Junior.
Proper EpiPen Handling
Protective Storage:
When not in use, EpiPens must always be stored inside their protective cases to avoid accidents and maintain their integrity.
Clear Usage Instructions:
Each EpiPen is equipped with easy-to-read instructions along its side. It is crucial to read these instructions to ensure correct usage.
Safety Cap Awareness:
The blue cap, located at the top of the EpiPen, acts as a safety cover, preventing the needle from deploying when not in use. Removing the cap activates the device.
Replacing the Safety Cap:
While the cap can be replaced without using the EpiPen, it should be done carefully to prevent accidental adrenaline injection.
Administering the EpiPen
Proper Procedure:
When using the EpiPen, follow these steps:
- Remove the EpiPen from its case.
- Lie down with your legs slightly raised to maintain blood flow, or sit down if breathing is difficult.
- Remove the safety cap.
- Gently press the auto-injector against the thigh, even through clothing. Ensure the needle won't encounter thick seams or objects in pockets.
- Hold it in place for 3 seconds, then remove it.
- Remain in place until emergency services arrive. If treating an unconscious person, place them in the recovery position.
Needle Cover Safety:
After use, a needle cover will automatically protect the needle, preventing needle injuries.
Handover to Emergency Services:
Give the used EpiPen to emergency services after use for proper disposal and to provide details of the administered treatment. If a second dose is needed, repeat the process and inform emergency services accordingly.