Anaphylaxis Kit Checks, Storage and Maintenance

Anaphylaxis kits are designed to provide quick access to adrenaline auto-injectors during a serious allergic reaction. However, it is essential that the kit is checked, stored correctly and kept ready for use at all times.

Checking the Auto-Injectors When the Kit Arrives

When your anaphylaxis kit arrives, the first step is to check the adrenaline auto-injectors. Remove the auto-injectors from their cardboard boxes, but leave them inside their protective plastic tubes.

The plastic tubes help protect the auto-injectors from damage and reduce the risk of accidental activation.

Recording Expiry Dates and Serial Numbers

The cardboard packaging will usually show the expiry date and serial number, but it is also important to check the auto-injector itself.

If the details are not clearly visible through the plastic tube, carefully open the protective case and check the information printed on the device. Record the expiry dates on the kit’s check card so replacements can be ordered before the devices expire.

Checking the Condition of the Device

As part of your regular checks, inspect each auto-injector to ensure it is:

• In date
• Undamaged
• Stored in its protective tube
• Showing as ready to use in the inspection window

You should also check that the instructions are clearly visible and that staff understand how to follow them in an emergency.

Understanding Different Auto-Injector Instructions

Different adrenaline auto-injectors, such as EpiPen and Jext, may have different operating instructions. Staff must be familiar with the device supplied in the anaphylaxis kit and understand how it is used.

Training is important because it helps staff recognise anaphylaxis quickly and use the correct auto-injector safely and confidently.

Mounting and Locating the Anaphylaxis Kit

The anaphylaxis kit should be mounted in a suitable location using the rear mounting bracket or by safely securing the unit to the wall.

The kit must be placed somewhere that is:

• Easy to access
• Clearly visible
• Known to staff
• Not locked away
• Available quickly in an emergency

Every second counts during anaphylaxis, so the kit should never be stored where access may be delayed.

Placing Auto-Injectors in the Correct Section

When placing the auto-injectors into the kit, make sure adult and child devices are stored in the correct sections. Do not mix them up.

Although the device should always be checked before use, correct placement helps reduce the risk of error during a high-pressure emergency.

Using Tamper-Proof Seals

Once the kit has been checked and restocked, close the box and secure it with a tamper-proof seal. Pass the seal through the handle and main tab, then pull it tight.

Each tamper-proof seal has a unique number. Record this number as part of your inspection record. This helps confirm whether the kit has been opened or whether a seal has been replaced since the last check.

Final Kit Check

Before returning the kit to its storage location, make sure:

• All required auto-injectors are present
• Adult and child devices are in the correct sections
• Expiry dates have been recorded
• The devices are undamaged and ready to use
• The tamper-proof seal is fitted and recorded
• The kit is mounted in an accessible location

Staff Awareness

Once the anaphylaxis kit is in place, make sure all relevant staff know where it is stored, how to access it and what to do in an emergency.

Regular checks and staff awareness help ensure the kit is ready to use when it is needed most.