Anaphylaxis: What You Need to Know (and What to Do) - using an epipen

Anaphylaxis is a serious, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate action.

Using an Anaphylaxis Epipen can safe lives.

In those moments, knowing what to do isn’t just helpful —👉 it can save a life.

Understanding the triggers, recognising the symptoms, and knowing how to use an adrenaline auto-injector like an EpiPen can make all the difference.

Understanding Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance, releasing chemicals that cause severe physical distress.

Symptoms can develop within seconds or minutes, which is why early recognition is critical - and having an Anaphylaxis Epipen handy and knowing how to use it.

Common Triggers

• Food: peanuts, nuts, eggs, milk, shellfish, wheat

• Insect venom: bees, wasps, hornets

• Medication: antibiotics, anaesthetics, pain relief

• Latex: gloves, plasters

• Physical stress: rare, but possible

Recognising the Warning Signs

A severe allergic reaction may include:

• Difficulty or noisy breathing

• Swelling of the tongue, throat, lips, or face

• Tightness in the throat or difficulty speaking

• Wheezing or persistent coughing

• Collapse or loss of consciousness

• Pale, floppy appearance (especially in children)

👉 If in doubt, treat it as an emergency.

Immediate Action: Treating Anaphylaxis

Adrenaline is the first-line treatment.

It works by:

• Opening the airways

• Increasing blood pressure

• Reducing swelling

How to Use an EpiPen

1. Remove the EpiPen from its case

2. Hold firmly (orange tip pointing down)

3. Remove the blue safety cap

4. Jab firmly into the outer thigh (through clothing if needed)

5. Hold in place for 3 seconds

6. Remove and massage the area

👉 Then immediately:

• Call 112 / 999

• Say: “Anaphylaxis”

• Stay with the person

Essential Safety Tips

• Carry two EpiPens at all times

• A second dose may be needed after 5–15 minutes

• Check the viewing window regularly — the liquid should be clear and colourless

• Store below 25°C (do not refrigerate or freeze)

• Make sure others know where your EpiPen is and how to use it

Final Thought

In an emergency, people don’t rise to the occasion —👉 they fall back on what they know.

That’s why preparation matters.

Want to Feel Confident, Not Just Informed?

At SkillWise Training, we focus on practical, hands-on learning so you don’t just understand first aid — you feel ready to act.

📍 Roscommon & Midlands📩 training@skillwise.ie🌐 www.skillwise.ie